Design for Living: A Daring Pre-Code Hollywood Gem

Imagine a train in old France. Gilda (Miriam Hopkins), a talented caricaturist, enters a compartment and finds two attractive men sleeping: George (Gary Cooper), a painter, and Thomas (Fredric March), a playwright. Curious, she picks up her pen and begins to sketch them. Hours later, they awaken, enchanted by the beautiful artist before them. It isn’t long before they discover that all three are struggling artists with something in common: a passion for art and, soon, for each other.

The Audacious Love Triangle in Design for Living

The mutual attraction between Gilda, George, and Thomas transforms them into inseparable friends. Gilda, honest and direct, initiates a romance with both men, but proposes a daring agreement: to live together without sex. Can they resist? The film Design for Living (1933) explores this tension with lightness and sophistication, challenging the societal norms of the era. Gilda becomes a sort of “coach” for the two, guiding their careers, but jealousy soon threatens the eleven-year friendship between the men.

Why Design for Living Was Revolutionary

Released in the 1930s, before Hollywood’s strict censorship codes took full effect, the screenplay by Ben Hecht (adapting Noël Coward’s play) maintains an elegant yet spicy tone. Gilda makes love with both protagonists — something explicit for the time — but director Ernst Lubitsch handles everything with utmost class. It’s no wonder the film was banned in 1934 for being considered “too daring.” Even so, its genius shines through, thanks to Hecht’s brilliant writing, responsible for classics like Scarface (1932) and Gone with the Wind (1939).

The Stellar Cast and Film’s Magic

Miriam Hopkins brings to life an irresistible Gilda, distinct from Rita Hayworth’s character in another classic. Gary Cooper and Fredric March, meanwhile, imbue their roles with sweetness and charisma. Who wouldn’t root for this trio? Design for Living is a film to watch and rewatch, questioning norms with humor and passion.

Why Watch Design for Living Today?

• Timeless Story: A love triangle that defiantly challenges conventions.
• Stellar Cast: Cooper, March, and Hopkins deliver memorable performances.
• Historical Curiosity: A landmark pre-Code Hollywood film.