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20TH CENTURY STUDIOS

Desk Set

Based on 2,488 reviews
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At a glance

Condition
New
Format
DVD December 3, 2013
Dimensions
0.7 x 7.5 x 5.4 in; 2.72 oz
Color
Color
Language
English, Spanish
Runtime
1 hour and 43 minutes
MPAA rating
NR (Not Rated)

Description

A TV-network researcher with an amazing memory humors an efficiency expert sent to improve her department.

Specs 15

Format Anamorphic, Color, Dolby, Dubbed, Multiple Formats, NTSC, Subtitled, Widescreen
Contributor Diane Jergens, Dina Merrill, Gig Young, Harry Ellerbe, Henry Ephron, Ida Moore, Joan Blondell, Katharine Hepburn, Merry Anders, Neva Patterson, Nicholas Joy, Phoebe Ephron, Spencer Tracy, Sue Randall, Walter Lang, William Marchant
Language English, Spanish
Runtime 1 hour and 43 minutes
Color Color
Aspect Ratio 2.351
MPAA rating NR (Not Rated)
Product Dimensions 0.7 x 7.5 x 5.4 inches; 2.72 ounces

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Top Amazon Reviews

The Must-Have Collection for Fans!
Review Image by Benjamin J Burgraff
Review Image by Benjamin J Burgraff
Review Image by Benjamin J Burgraff
Review Image by Benjamin J Burgraff
Review Image by Benjamin J Burgraff
Review Image by Benjamin J Burgraff
Review Image by Benjamin J Burgraff
Review Image by Benjamin J Burgraff
Review Image by Benjamin J Burgraff
Review Image by Benjamin J Burgraff
I've waited MANY years to see a boxed set of the film teamings of Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn, and Tracy & Hepburn the Definitive Collection, with all 9 of the features, the heartfelt Tracy biography, "The Spencer Tracy Legacy", narrated by Hepburn, and selected featurettes, geared to the time frame of individual films, certainly hits it out of the park! A quick overview of the features: "Woman of the Year" (1942): The pair's first teaming, after Hepburn's HUGE success in The Philadelphia Story...She'd wanted Tracy in the role of the pragmatic, jaded reporter in the earlier film, but he was working, so she had to settle for Jimmy Stewart (who felt miscast, but won the Best Actor Oscar, anyway!) Ring Lardner Jr. and Michael Kanin wrote the script specifically for Tracy and Hepburn (he was a plain-spoken, savvy sports columnist; she was a high-brow, internationally-acclaimed political journalist), and the chemistry was electric from the first moment they shared onscreen, as he opened a door and glimpsed her beautiful legs...This classic comedy of opposites attracting still packs a wallop, nearly 70 years later! (5 stars out of 5) "Keeper of the Flame" (1942): Despite being two of the great dramatic actors of their generation, the Tracy/Hepburn pairings always worked better in comedies, probably because the dramas were never quite of the same caliber. This tale of the hidden fascist roots of a deceased national hero is similar, in form, to Citizen Kane, with Tracy as an investigative reporter uncovering the nastiness, and Hepburn as the widow, tortured by her husband's secret life and ambitions; despite George Cukor's considerable directorial skills, and the stars at their most glamorous (mercy, they are both beautiful!), the whole film seems a bit overwrought...(3 stars out of 5) "Without Love" (1945): A welcome return to romantic comedy for Tracy and Hepburn; he's a scientist concerned about high altitude's lack of oxygen, on pilots (a frequent theme in wartime films), she's a widow and brilliant assistant, with a house in overcrowded Washington; to avoid the public gossip of a single man and woman living together (despite both swearing no interest in romance), they arrange a platonic, 'loveless' marriage (my, how times have changed!) and, in working together, not surprisingly, love blooms. While the themes are dated, the pair simply glows, onscreen, and watch for some first-rate supporting performances by Lucille Ball and Keenan Wynn! (4 stars, out of 5) "The Sea of Grass" (1947): This long, quasi-western period drama of the conflict between free-spirit Hepburn, and her husband, intractable land baron Tracy, is more fun for who was involved than the end result (which is, truthfully, slow and more than a bit turgid; a better Tracy vehicle as a rich cattleman is Broken Lance). Directing is young Elia Kazan, who would redefine edgy, realistic contemporary drama in films like On the Waterfront (here, directing a studio-shot, soft-focus WESTERN???) Tracy (or co-star Melvyn Douglas, another suitor) fathers a wild, undisciplined son by Hepburn, played by Robert Walker, one of the most gifted, kinetic, tragic young stars in Hollywood history, and he is dazzling, easily outshining poor Douglas! Another problem with the film: Tracy had just been critically panned in his return to the Broadway stage, in "The Rugged Path", and had fallen off the wagon in an epic bender that put him into the hospital, and made him nearly impossible to work with...All in all, a real curiosity piece...(2 1/2 stars out of 5) "State of the Union" (1948): A somewhat flat Frank Capra political comedy, lacking the sharp, decisive wit of his earlier, similarly-themed 'Meet John Doe', with Tracy as a rather naive industrialist talked into running for the Republican Presidential nomination, and Hepburn as his estranged wife, brought in to improve his 'image'. A first-rate cast (including Angela Lansbury, Van Johnson, and Adolphe Menjou), but an uneven script, which sputters, occasionally. Hepburn was a last-second replacement for Claudette Colbert, whose cavalier attitude in walking out earned Capra's life-long venom. Despite the behind-the-scenes problems, the Capra-Tracy-Hepburn teamup still has some terrific moments, and a wonderful finale! (3 1/2 stars out of 5) "Adam's Rib" (1949): The BEST of all the Tracy/Hepburn teamings! A battle royale of the sexes, as conservative D.A. Tracy prosecutes a young woman (Judy Holiday, dazzling in her debut), defended by his wife (Hepburn, at her funniest). A fabulous script (by the stars' lifelong friends, Garson Kanin and Ruth Gordon), and sharp direction by George Cukor raises still timely, relevant questions about sexual inequality in society, educating audiences with a smile, played to perfection by a flawless cast... (5 stars out of 5) "Pat and Mike" (1952): Tracy and Hepburn, reteamed with Cukor, Kanin, and Gordon, in another sparkling comedy; slow-speaking (but quick-witted) sports promoter Tracy hitches his star to a natural athletic phenom (Hepburn, who was actually every bit as gifted an athlete as her character!); in protecting her, and developing her skills, the pair gradually fall in love. A very 'Runyonesque' tale, with colorful characters (watch for young Charles Bronson in a bit role), this film is a real charmer! (5 stars out of 5) "Desk Set" (1957): Katharine Hepburn was the force behind this automation-themed comedy becoming a Tracy-Hepburn vehicle, as Tracy's career and personal life were going through some very hard times, and she knew working together was the best medicine; while the storyline is dated (a research department at a ficticious television network, headed by Hepburn, faces elimination by Tracy's super-computer), and perhaps too rigidly adheres to it's roots as a stage play, it does offer a very good cast (including Gig Young and Joan Blondell), bright, witty dialogue (by Phoebe and Henry Ephron), and the Tracy/Hepburn magic, which makes it a winner... (4 stars out of 5) "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner" (1967): While it's place as relevant social commentary (with an interracial marriage theme) may be a bit too sugar-coated, the final teaming of Tracy and Hepburn, with superstar Sidney Poitier, and Hepburn's niece, Katharine Houghton, in her film debut, is a very, very special film. Spencer Tracy was dying, the years of alcoholism having destroyed his health, but he wanted one last chance to act (which both Hepburn and director/friend Stanley Kramer were determined to provide him); the major studios refused to insure him, however, and the pair had to agree to financially cover all losses, if Tracy passed away during production. He hadn't acted in front of a camera in over three years, his energy was erratic, and he could work, at most, only a few hours a day, in the studio (the outdoor sequence at the ice cream 'drive-in' was performed by doubles, in long shots, with the close-ups filmed indoors on a set). Tracy did, in fact, pass away just days after the film 'wrapped', but his performance was superb, with a decisive closing summation that is one of the finest pieces of acting in film history, earning him a final Oscar nomination (while he lost, Hepburn won, and considered the award as recognition to both of them). A beautiful, bittersweet farewell (5 stars out of 5) This is the collection to own!!!!! ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on April 2, 2011 by Benjamin J Burgraff
My second favorite Tracey and Heburn movie
They made 9 movies together, this was the first one in color. Watching Hepburn hold her own against this formidable icon is such a pure delight. A great supporting cast that is set in the research department of a television studio where trying to keep secret some upcoming changes that will affect their lives a secret doesn't go well. As usual this dynamic duo go toe to toe with witty banter, excellent dialogue and a haliarious scene in Hepburn's apartment while he rides out a rain storm. My second favorite movie of their collaboration. Not to be missed for it's pure entertainment value. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on November 10, 2025 by Jeannie
Original Dynamic Duo ( lol) fantastic funny and endearing - just love it
Hepburn and Tracy in one of their greatest comedies ! SOME SPOILERS! I enjoy this movie for a few different reasons. The lead actor and actress are two of my all time favorites . They work superbly together and will make you glad you took the time out to watch their movies . This movie takes place about the time of computer introduction into the business world . The story takes place in an office of reference and information, think of a mini library . It is run by Hepburn and she is a delight . Smart , funny , and amazing as always . Tracy is the man that brings the computer systems into the office to eventually take over the jobs of the handful of intelligent and feisty woman who work there. There is romance and humor. There is some holiday too because the story will take place around Christmas / new years. There is the conflict of impending unemployment due to the modernization of the world . Something we can all relate to in one way or another . The supporting cast does a wonderful job . This movie takes you back to the days of awesome outfits and cool old cars. When men always wore suits and ladies never wore pants lol . If you are a fan of either Hepburn or Tracy you have to see this . Chances are you have ; if so grab that lol on and you cozy blanket, it’s time to return to the golden age of film making -the movies that brought us to where we are today . There are some real intelligent funny women waiting to show you and Spencer Tracy just what they can do ;)! ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on August 9, 2026 by TJ
Absolute classic H&T fun.
I've never understood why this movie is not more widely known, and loved. It's become a holiday movie for our family as a good portion of it takes place from Thanksgiving through Christmas. It's Hepburn and Tracy at their light-hearted best. I think that's why some die hard H&T fans may think this is their weakest film. It's certainly not Shakespeare, but it's not supposed to be. At this point in their careers, they could've done this movie in their sleep. They glide effortlessly through the whip-smart dialogue that is sometimes way ahead of it's time, while also being lovably dated. There are some fantastic one liners, many that were surely ad-libbed. There is a whole scene that Tracy ad-libbed to the delight of Hepburn and Joan Blondell. It fit perfectly with the feel of the film, SO glad it was kept in there. In 1957, this was surely considered a very modern and "adult" movie/comedy. I've loved it since I was a kid. Though the more sophisticated dialogue went over my head back then, it was just a very fun movie to watch visually. It's physical comedy without being slapstick. Gorgeous costumes, and sets that feel like you are watching a play rather than a movie. It's a snapshot of a time long ago, but much of it still resonates today. Add it to your family's Thanksgiving day traditions! ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on February 13, 2022 by Andy J-L
It's About Time!!
It is with a true sense of anticipation and joy that I greet the news that 1957's Desk Set will finally be released on DVD in the U.S. Hopefully, it will be released in the original widescreen theatrical aspect in which it was intended to be viewed. Available for some time in Asia, it's scandalizing that OUR OWN classic cinema takes years to be released here on DVD! Featuring the incomparable talents of Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn in their prime, this sparkling movie enjoyed the lively direction of Walter Lang. Tracy plays a computer engineer, Richard Sumner, hired as a consultant to computerize the research department of a TV network. The research department head, Bunny Watson, played by Hepburn, hasn't been told the specifics of the project and erroneously believes the computer being installed, EMERAC, will replace her employees. Sparks soon fly between Tracy and Hepburn not just regarding the workplace situation, but also romantically. The two stars get terrific support by a first-rate cast that includes Joan Blondell, Gig Young, and a youthful Dina Merrill. While many critics fail to list this movie as one of the best outings by film's dynamic duo, I find it endlessly entertaining and great fun. I love the witty dialog and the fantastic chemistry between Tracy and Hepburn. The scene at Bunny's apartment when Sumner ends up there because of a rain storm features vintage Tracy and Hepburn repartee that easily equates to one of the best encounters ever captured on film for any of their movies. It is also a facinating look at the future computer age as envisioned by the 1950s film industry. The computer marvel created for the story is as big as a living room! Hopefully, this release with lead to the release of the remainder of the Tracy-Hepburn catalog on DVD, and the catalogs of both of those legendary performers' independent projects. I only wish the amazing Heburn had lived to see these fine, memorable films released on DVD. A large market exists in the U.S. for classic movies on DVD. There can really be no excuse for withholding America's rightful cinematic history when Europe and Asia is already enjoying it!! ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on March 2, 2004 by E. Hornaday
Almost perfect set, but with a few minor quibbles.
Review Image by takemehome
Review Image by takemehome
Review Image by takemehome
Review Image by takemehome
Review Image by takemehome
Review Image by takemehome
Review Image by takemehome
Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn made 9 films over a 25-year period, and enjoyed one of Hollywood's most legendary offscreen romances during that period as well. Last year, Warner Bros. finally decided to treat this classic screen duo to a definitive box set containing every film they made together, including two that had never been released to DVD and three that are owned by other studios. The pros: 1. Well, obviously, a huge pro is that we finally have all nine films in one set. Warner Bros. went the extra mile, going beyond their own library and licensing "State Of The Union" from Universal, "Desk Set" from Fox, and "Guess Who's Coming To Dinner" from Sony. 2. The packaging is nicely done. All ten discs are in a clear double alpha case such as double-disc DVD's used to come in, only maybe a millimeter or two thicker, all inside a shiny cardboard slipcase. The discs all have new disc art - very plain, with only solid colors, but the look is quite classy. This configuration allows the set to take up very little room on your DVD shelf. The reverse side of the case insert has credits for the film and the inside contains a booklet with photos and information on each film. Everything is very classy and well-put-together. 3. The films themselves are quite good. Some are better than others, but there isn't a total dud in the whole set. Granted this opinion isn't entirely accurate, as I've only seen six of the nine films in the set, but the three I haven't seen yet ("Woman Of The Year," "Adam's Rib," and "Pat And Mike" - I've previewed the discs, however.) are generally accepted as classics and I expect nothing less. A few films, such as "Keeper Of The Flame" and "The Sea Of Grass" have some story and pacing issues, but the pairing of Tracy and Hepburn elevates anything they touch out of total mediocrity. 4. Those last two films I mentioned were the last two Tracy & Hepburn films not to be issued on DVD - thanks to the release of this set, that has finally been rectified. Both films are available separately, as well, for those simply needing to complete their collections. 5. In general, transfers are good and bonus materials, while not bountiful, are still nice additions. ("State Of The Union" is completely barebones - no trailer, not even a chapter menu, although there ARE chapter stops. I imagine MGM still retains promotional materials and such, which would prevent Universal from using them on the DVD.) The main attractions here are the films themselves, and for the most part, they are presented nicely. Most have some occasional issues here and there, but for their age, they mostly look wonderful. Cons: 1. You can tell "Woman Of The Year" and "Adam's Rib" are among the first DVD's ever released - the films open with the old Turner logo. New digital transfers and new discs with the same types of bonus materials as more recent Warner catalog discs (a short subject, a cartoon, maybe a short retrospective) would have befitted these films very much and made this set truly an event, as opposed to merely recycling old discs. 2. Warner was only able to license one disc of the more recent 2-Disc set of "Guess Who's Coming To Dinner," which is a shame - the only bonus feature on the film disc of that set are celebrity introductions to the film. While I didn't expect the other disc to be licensed, it would have been nice if they'd been able to. 3. While Warner was kind enough to release separate discs for "Keeper Of The Flame" and "The Sea Of Grass," they sadly didn't bother to do so for "Without Love," meaning the only way to get that one is to either buy this set or the Katharine Hepburn 100th Anniversary Collection. While both sets often go on sale for very reasonable prices, those simply needing to complete a collection still have to buy a big set to get this one film. 4. The bonus disc is merely a recycle of the exclusive "Spencer Tracy Legacy" disc from Tracy & Hepburn: The Signature Collection. Now, this documentary absolutely belongs in this set, but I don't find it kosher that this set's only substantial bonus feature only focuses on one half of the pair. (Granted the other half is the force behind it, but I digress.) A new disc should have been authored with this documentary as well as the intensely fascinating Katharine Hepburn documentary "All About Me." Granted it's available on The Philadelphia Story (Two-Disc Special Edition) but it would have made a nice inclusion here and given us a good look at both screen legends. All gripes aside, Warner Bros. really has given us fans of Tracy & Hepburn a great box set of ALL of their films, and any gripes one may have about lack of extras, old discs being reused, etc. pale in comparison to finally having a complete collection of their on-screen magic together. Hopefully this will lead to more sets like this in the future, with Warner licensing other titles from other studios. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on January 2, 2012 by takemehome
Teach our young ones the love of classics like this.
I’d say this is THE Hepburn & Tracy movie to start with. Especially if you have not yet learned an appreciation for the black & white classics. Full, brilliant, color. Great sound. And a first look at electronic brains you may know as computers. As to this ICONIC Hollywood Couple...after years of their on & off screen relationship, their natural bond and performances are captivating and endearing. Their banter, wit, and confidence are next to none. A HUGE PLUS to this and other classics of this nature, absolutely NO PARENTAL GUIDANCE/WORRIES NEEDED. When I was very young, my mother didn’t turn the tv on to Disney, Cartoon channels, not even PBS (after a certain time of day). Our living room tv was usually on Turner Classic Movies (TCM), even just for background noise, as we went through our daily routines together. She never had to worry that I may hear or see anything inappropriate or be badly influenced the snotty, disrespectful kids on OTHER channels. I grew up loving all of these old movies, actors, and actresses! Understanding fast dialogue, reading (CC always on), having much broader interests, & “getting” teachers references when no one else in my classes had a clue, are just a few worthy side effects of my moms smart use of our tv. I did watch cartoons sometimes. But our young brains don’t have to melt because of tv. Start your love affair with the classics here. You won’t be dissatisfied with the side effects. ... show more
Reviewed in the United States on February 15, 2020 by dark_bibliomania
Critique
A classic movie featuring Spencer Tracy and Katherine Hepburn with an all star cast. Storyline is wonderful. Costumes are so chic. Great set design Writing and dialogue is on point for the era.
Reviewed in the United States on July 13, 2026 by Denise L White
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