Adam’s Rib, George Cukor (U.S., 1949)

Adam’s Rib isn’t just a battle-of-the-sexes, it’s a full-blown military campaign. In their sixth film together, Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy play married attorneys, arguing on opposite sides of a trial. The case involves another couple: aggravated Doris (Judy Holliday) and her philandering mate (Tom Ewell), whom she is accused of assaulting. The battle lines are drawn: Holliday attacks with bayonet drawn while Hepburn, a more civil soul, barrages her barrister buddy with dum-dums. Though the famed fems are remarkably different, their cause is the same: equality in the courtroom and the kitchen. Director George Cukor delivers a coolly contained comedy that will tickle your ribs.

—Steve Seid

• Written by Garson Kanin, Ruth Gordon. Photographed by George J. Folsey. With Katharine Hepburn, Spencer Tracy, Judy Holliday, Tom Ewell. (101 mins, B&W, 35mm, From Warner Bros.)