Life with Father is a 1947 comedy film based on the popular Broadway play of the same name by Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse, which was adapted from a memoir by Clarence Day. The story is set in 1880s New York City and follows the humorous and heartwarming experiences of the Day family, particularly focusing on the eccentric, strict, but loving father, Clarence Day Sr., played by William Powell.

Clarence Day Sr. is a stern, stubborn, and financially prudent patriarch who believes in maintaining strict order and discipline in his household. He is a successful stockbroker with a strong sense of traditional values and a somewhat rigid view of how things should be done. His wife, Vinnie Day, played by Irene Dunne, is the gentle, loving, and patient matriarch who often acts as a mediator between Clarence and their four spirited sons.

The film explores the comedic clash between Clarence’s authoritarian style and the everyday antics of his family, from his wife’s attempts to modernize the household to the mischievous escapades of his children. The tension reaches a peak when Vinnie realizes that Clarence has never been baptized, leading to a series of humorous attempts by the family to get him to agree to a baptism, despite his staunch refusal and disbelief in the necessity of the ritual.

As the story unfolds, “Life with Father” paints a nostalgic picture of family life in the late 19th century, highlighting the warmth, humor, and love that underpin even the most challenging family dynamics. The film is filled with light-hearted moments, witty dialogue, and a touching portrayal of a father’s love and devotion to his family, despite his gruff exterior. It captures the charm and quirks of a bygone era, celebrating the enduring bonds of family and the humorous side of everyday life.