ARTHUR

Arthur (1981) is a romantic comedy directed by Steve Gordon, starring Dudley Moore, Liza Minnelli, John Gielgud, and Geraldine Fitzgerald. The film became a critical and commercial success, earning multiple Academy Award nominations and winning Best Supporting Actor for John Gielgud and Best Original Song for “Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do)” by Christopher Cross.

Arthur Bach (Dudley Moore) is a charming but perpetually drunk, immature millionaire playboy living in Manhattan. Despite his irresponsible behavior and childlike approach to life, Arthur is beloved by his loyal butler, Hobson (John Gielgud), who acts as both a caretaker and a voice of reason in his chaotic life. Arthur’s immense wealth comes from his aristocratic family, who expect him to marry a respectable woman and settle down.
Arthur’s family pressures him into an arranged marriage with Susan Johnson (Jill Eikenberry), the daughter of a wealthy and powerful businessman. Though Susan is attractive and intelligent, Arthur feels no genuine affection for her. His father and grandmother warn him that he will be cut off from his $750 million inheritance if he refuses to marry Susan. Despite his misgivings, Arthur reluctantly agrees to the engagement, fearing a life without his fortune.

However, everything changes when Arthur meets Linda Marolla (Liza Minnelli), a witty and independent working-class woman who shoplifts a tie from an upscale department store. Amused by her boldness, Arthur steps in and helps her avoid trouble. They quickly form a connection, and Arthur finds himself genuinely falling in love for the first time in his life.
As Arthur spends more time with Linda, he realizes that wealth means nothing without happiness. He confesses to Hobson that he wants to marry Linda instead of Susan.

However, the consequences of defying his family loom over him—his father remains adamant that the engagement must go through, or Arthur will lose everything.
Things take a more serious turn when Hobson falls gravely ill. Arthur is forced to confront real emotional pain for the first time in his life, as he deeply loves and depends on Hobson. When Hobson dies, Arthur is devastated but gains a newfound clarity. Determined to follow his heart, he breaks off his engagement with Susan, leading to a heated confrontation with her father, who physically attacks him.

Arthur decides to marry Linda, fully prepared to live without his fortune. However, just as he and Linda are about to leave his lavish lifestyle behind, his grandmother, Martha Bach (Geraldine Fitzgerald), has a change of heart. Impressed by Arthur’s decision to prioritize love over money, she decides to let him keep his inheritance after all.

The film ends with Arthur and Linda riding off together in his chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce, as Arthur jokes about giving up drinking (though it’s implied he may not fully commit to sobriety). Their love story triumphs, proving that happiness is worth more than wealth.

“Arthur” is a classic romantic comedy that explores themes of wealth versus happiness, love conquering social class barriers, and personal growth through hardship. Dudley Moore’s portrayal of the lovable yet deeply flawed Arthur was widely praised, as was John Gielgud’s performance as the sarcastic yet affectionate butler Hobson.
The film was a massive success and remains a beloved comedy, thanks to its sharp humor, heartfelt moments, and unforgettable characters.