The Shop Around the Corner (1940)

In the heart of Budapest, Hungary, stands the charming Matuschek and Company store, an old-world gift shop owned by the affable Hugo Matuschek. At the helm of its operations is Alfred Kralik, the store's most experienced salesman, a dedicated bachelor with a secret love life confined to heartfelt letters with an anonymous pen pal. One day, Klara Novak, a vibrant young woman with a knack for sales, steps into the shop seeking employment. Despite the lack of a vacant position, her spirited demonstration of skill captivates Mr. Matuschek, who promptly hires her. However, an immediate clash of personalities ignites between Klara and Alfred, their workplace interactions brimming with friction. As Alfred prepares to propose to his mysterious correspondent, an unexpected turn of events sees him ousted from the store, fired by Matuschek under a cloud of mistaken suspicion. Dejected, Alfred heads to a prearranged meeting with his unknown lover, only to discover, in a twist of fate, that his adversary Klara is the woman behind the letters. Upon realizing his error, Matuschek reinstates Alfred, promoting him to the position of manager. However, Klara remains blissfully ignorant of Alfred's dual identity, her heart still entranced by her anonymous correspondent. Now Alfred must navigate this intricate web of secrets and affection, devising a plan to reveal his true self to Klara without shattering the enchanting image she has of her pen pal. As he balances his new role and his growing attraction to Klara, Alfred finds himself in a captivating dance of love, identity, and second chances.

The Shop Around the Corner is a comedy movie featuring Margaret Sullavan.

The Shop Around the Corner is currently streaming on TCM.

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