School for Romance: A Bizarre Little Lesson in 30s Flirting

Is it worth your time?

Honestly, only if you are deep into that weird, specific 1930s vibe where everyone talks like they’re reciting lines from a play they haven't finished reading. If you’re looking for a grounded romantic comedy, steer clear. This is for the folks who enjoy seeing early Betty Grable and don’t mind a premise that would be considered deeply creepy by today's standards.

The whole thing centers on a professor who decides his pupils need a crash course in love. It plays out like a stage skit that got lost on its way to a theater. There’s no real depth here, just a lot of rapid-fire dialogue that aims for witty but often hits 'exhausting' instead.

The Vibes

Watching this feels like finding a dusty postcard in the back of a drawer. It’s got that peculiar, jittery energy common to these old ensemble films. I couldn't help but think about how much different the pacing is compared to something like Don't Bet on Love. That one had a bit more grit, whereas this feels like it’s made of cotton candy and stage lights. 🍬

• Ward Bond shows up, and he feels like he walked off a much better set.
• The dialogue is faster than a runaway train, but the train isn't really going anywhere.
• The classroom scenes? Let’s just say I wouldn't want to be in that curriculum.

There is a moment where the professor is lecturing, and one of the students just stares at the wall for what feels like a solid minute. I assume she was checking if her hair was still in place. It’s those little, unpolished human moments that kept me awake.

It doesn't try to be profound. It doesn't try to change the world. It’s just... there. Like a piece of furniture you don't really notice until you trip over it. Probably skip it unless you're a completist.

I found myself wondering if they ever actually filmed a scene where the students weren't looking at the camera. It’s almost like they were worried we’d forget they were there. It’s not great cinema, but it’s a weird slice of history. Just don't go in expecting to learn anything about actual love. You'll leave with a headache instead.