How on earth did it take me so long to see this film? My guess is due to not having much prior knowledge of it, pathetically as a big fan of classic film. Had more knowledge of the better known 'An Affair to Remember' and 'Sleepless in Seattle', the former being its remake and the latter being heavily influenced by this.

'Love Affair' is simply put an overlooked treasure of a film, acclaimed then and now but released in the year that saw two of the best and most influential films ever made 'The Wizard of Oz' and 'Gone With the Wind'. 'An Affair to Remember' and 'Sleepless in Seattle' may be better known, but it is agreed that 'Love Affair' is the superior film and one of the finest and most iconic love stories on film. Like both those films very much, but adored this and consider it one of my favourite recent new viewings. The general standard of those recent viewings have been very hit and miss with too many potential wastes, so saying that about 'Love Affair' is saying a lot.

It's a beautiful looking film, especially the photography and the music is a good fit having energy and elegance. Leo McCarey directs immaculately, some of the best he did for me and he always was a very solid director.

Best assets are the script and performances. The script is filled with sophisticated wit and poignant romance, full of warmth, humour and emotion that made laugh and cry. The story is always compelling and never feels rushed or dull.

On top of the acting being so good, the chemistry between the actors also elevates Love Affair' to an even greater level. That between Irene Dunne and Charles Boyer irresistibly sparkles and affects poignantly, and it is impossible to love Dunne's character. One totally feels their love and sees what they see in each other.

Dunne was simply born for this role and she is very touching and charming in it. Boyer is a warm, witty and every bit as charming leading man. They get superb support from especially Maria Ouspenskaya.

Summarising, simply exquisite. 10/10 Bethany Cox

When a film gets done three times for three generations, I guess you have to concede it's definitely got something going for it.

Lovers Charles Boyer/Irene Dunne, Cary Grant/Deborah Kerr, and Warren Beatty/Annette Bening all have their different appeal, but I think the story is universal. What woman who's seen this film hasn't dreamed of an ocean voyage where she will meet the love of her life?

Earnest and hopeful Irene Dunne goes on an ocean voyage where she meets continental playboy Charles Boyer. He's definitely a love 'em and leave 'em type, but there's something about Irene that keeps drawing him back.

It doesn't help that both are involved with different people. But this is the movies and we all know how things work out on film.

Mention should also be made of Maria Ouspenskaya as Boyer's beloved grandmother. She's a grand old lady and you know when I guy takes a girl home to meet granny, it's a sign he's hooked.

Lee Bowman is Irene's involvement and he's such a good guy, I kind of feel sorry for him he's getting dumped.

Leo McCarey directs these romantic films with a sure hand. For lovers of romance of all ages.

"Love Affair", the fabulously romantic film of 1939, is the model in which two other remakes were fashioned, yet, this classic film stands out in our memory because the great chemistry between Irene Dunne and Charles Boyer.

The stars of "Love affair" exuded charm and sophistication, as well as good looks. It's easy to see why Michel falls for the beautiful Terry on board the luxury liner that is bringing them back to New York. The passengers' curiosity play well in the ship sequences. It's a great fun to watch Michel and Terry fall madly in love with one another, yet they must resolve their own entanglements with other people in order to be able to be together. Fate gets in their way.

Irene Dunne was an exquisite woman that played everything with enormous panache. Charles Boyer matches his co-star as the suave playboy who suddenly finds the love of his life. It's a joy to watch these two actors filling the screen. They made it so easy that their acting seems effortless.

In minor roles Maria Ouspenskaya, is seen as Michel's grandmother Janou, a lady who saw in Terry the perfect woman for her grandson. Lee Bowman is Kenneth, and Astrid Allwyn is the elegant Lois.

Thanks to Leo McCarey, this is a timeless film that will bring joy to audiences forever.