The Shop Around the Corner

The Shop Around the Corner

Year: 1940

Runtime: 99 min

Language: English

Director: Ernst Lubitsch

DramaComedyRomance

In Budapest, two employees, Alfred Kralik and Klara Novak, find themselves at odds while working at Matuschek and Company. Unbeknownst to them, they begin a correspondence as anonymous pen pals, and a tender romance develops through their heartfelt letters. As they navigate their daily encounters filled with playful rivalry, the unexpected connection they share through their writing brings warmth and laughter. The truth about their anonymous relationship eventually unfolds, leading to a heartwarming story about love, mistaken identities, and the joy of the holiday season.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The Shop Around the Corner (1940)

Trace every key event in The Shop Around the Corner (1940) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Alfred and Klara's Initial Encounter

Alfred Kralik and Klara Novak begin working together at Matuschek's gift store in Budapest. Their daily interactions are filled with irritation, but unbeknownst to them, they each have a secret pen pal, exchanging heartfelt letters and longing for a personal connection.

Matuschek's gift store, Budapest
2

Busy Christmas Season

As Christmas approaches, the store becomes increasingly busy, heightening the tension between Alfred and Klara. Meanwhile, their secret correspondence continues, deepening their unknown connection while they fight with each other at work.

Christmas season Matuschek's gift store, Budapest
3

Alfred's Dismissal

Alfred's long-standing relationship with Mr. Matuschek takes a turn when he is unexpectedly fired. Stunned by the sudden change in his circumstances, Alfred says his goodbyes, and for the first time, has a civil interaction with Klara.

Matuschek's gift store, Budapest
4

The Meeting of Pen Pals

Despite his recent job loss, Alfred decides to attend the meeting that he and Klara had arranged as their pen pals. Peering through the restaurant window, he sees Klara waiting with the book and a red carnation, realizing that he misjudged her all along.

Night of the planned meeting Restaurant
5

Matuschek's Heartbreak

Back at the store, Mr. Matuschek is devastated after learning from a private detective that his wife has been unfaithful. Believing Alfred to be the betrayer, he is heartbroken and contemplates suicide, only to be stopped by a young delivery boy.

Late night Matuschek's office
6

Alfred's Visit to Matuschek

The following day, Alfred visits Mr. Matuschek in the hospital, where they share an emotional moment. Matuschek seeks Alfred's forgiveness and reinstates him at the store, promoting him to manager as a sign of trust.

The next day Hospital
7

Klara's Heartbreak

Klara arrives at work still reeling from the disappointment of her failed meeting with her pen pal. Upon discovering Alfred is now the manager, she faints in shock, overwhelmed by the series of unexpected events.

Matuschek's gift store, Budapest
8

Clarifying Misunderstandings

While resting at home, Klara receives another letter from her pen pal explaining his absence at the meeting due to misinterpreting her association with Alfred. Relieved, she promises Alfred that she'll return to work the next day.

Klara's home
9

Christmas Eve Preparations

On Christmas Eve, the store buzzes with activity as everyone prepares for the holiday rush. Mr. Matuschek, nearly fully recovered, visits and is delighted to hear the store had its best sales day since 1928, rewarding everyone with bonuses.

Christmas Eve Matuschek's gift store, Budapest
10

A Change of Plans

As Klara is about to leave for another meeting with her pen pal, Alfred delays her with questions about the mysterious man. He also humorously mentions the pen pal's poor qualities, trying to make her see that he is the better choice.

Matuschek's gift store, Budapest
11

Alfred's Revelation

In a moment of clarity, Alfred places a red carnation in his lapel, revealing his true feelings and identity as Klara's pen pal. This surprise revelation clears up the misunderstandings that plagued their interactions and sets the stage for romance.

After hours, Christmas Eve Matuschek's gift store, Budapest

Last Updated: January 19, 2025 at 18:49

Unlock the Full Story of The Shop Around the Corner

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The Shop Around the Corner Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Shop Around the Corner, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

The Shop Around the Corner Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in The Shop Around the Corner

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Shop Around the Corner

More About The Shop Around the Corner

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More About The Shop Around the Corner

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