The Big Idea Behind THE SHOP AROUND THE CORNER

The Shop Around the Corner is based on the play Illatszertar (or Parfumerie), written by Miklos Laszlo.

Ernst Lubitsch bought the story rights to what would become The Shop Around the Corner in advance preparation for a collaboration between himself and producer David O. Selznick. When that deal fell through, he shopped his property to MGM on the condition that he produce and direct the film. MGM agreed to his terms, but only if he would commit to directing Ninotchka for the studio.

by Scott McGee