Summer classic: 'The Philadelphia Story'

Cary Grant and Jimmy Stewart's great scene from The Philadelphia Story.

When I contemplate why The Philadelphia Story is my favorite movie, sometimes I'd say it's the witty dialog, or maybe Katherine Hepburn in her prime, or the whole Philly society story. I remember the first time I saw it -- on a big screen, like it will be shown at 1:30 and 7:15 p.m. today at the Kentucky Theatre -- being fascinated with the idea people actually swam in pools in the 1940s. Give me a break, I was still in high school.

But when I really, really level with myself, it's the guys.

In Cary Grant's C.K. Dexter Haven and Jimmy Stewart's Macaulay Conner, The Philadelphia Story has two terrific leading men that, depending on my mood, I wanted to be. There was Dex, the suave, sophisticated guy who didn't realize what he had until she was gone. Then there was Mike, the mercenary cynic who really had an honorable soul. OK, neither was perfect, but each was interesting and fun in the midst of a hilarious story. They both had things going for them and were played by some of the best screen actors ever.

So, did I ever figure out which I wanted to be? Well, you grow up and realize you're going to be you. But still, given a choice, which would it be? Maybe it's answered with one of their exchanges:

Mike: Doggone it, C.K. Dexter Haven! Either I'm gonna sock you, or you're gonna sock me.

Dex: Shall we toss a coin?