Question 1

What did William Powell say about working with Myrna Loy on The Thin Man?

Accepted Answer

William Powell loved working with Myrna Loy because of her naturalness, professionalism, and lack of 'diva' temperament. He said they weren't acting but were 'two people in perfect harmony' who listened to each other.

Question 2

How did director W.S. Van Dyke incorporate William Powell and Myrna Loy's off-screen chemistry into the film?

Accepted Answer

Director W.S. Van Dyke noticed their easy banter and enjoyment of each other's company between takes, so he worked both into the movie, often encouraging and incorporating improvisation and off-the-cuff details.

Question 3

What historical laws are referenced in the dialogue between Nick Charles and Lieutenant Guild?

Accepted Answer

When Lieutenant Guild asks about the Sullivan Act, he's referring to a 1911 New York gun control law. Nora's response 'it's all right, we're married' references the 1910 Mann Act against transporting women for immoral purposes across state lines.

Question 4

What censorship issues did The Thin Man face despite being approved for exhibition?

Accepted Answer

MGM was advised some dialogue was 'censorable,' including lines about 'tabloids' and 'drawers.' The film was approved in 1934, but some territories later censored dialogue, and a Southern theater owner complained about excessive drinking.

Question 5

What was the rule about interacting with the dog Asta between takes?

Accepted Answer

According to Myrna Loy, actors were not allowed to interact between takes with the highly trained Skippy (Asta's real name), who performed his feats for a squeaky mouse and a biscuit.

The Thin Man

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