MovieChat Forums > Blithe Spirit (1945) Discussion > 'The answer to that is obvious' (Enjoyed...

'The answer to that is obvious' (Enjoyed the film on the whole)


During the scene where the exorcist lady comes to the mansion to get rid of both their ghosts, both Ruth and Elvira are lying on the couch, and the following exchange occurs. (Paraphrasing here)


Ruth "I've had the most dreadful night"

Elvira "The answer to that is obvious"

Ruth "I'm sure I have no idea what you mean"

Elvira "Of course you do!"



What did Elvira mean? Its really bothering me! What I'd prefer is if maybe you gave me a hint - I'd like to be able to figure it out myself. Its always things like this that bother me, hell there may other things I didn't quite pick up on during the film but this bothers me most, cause it seems like its meant to be obvious...........I'm sure its simple......

reply

It's key to include the most important word, which is "frustrating" not dreadful.

"This is definitely one of the most FRUSTRATING nights I've ever spent."

The connotations lead Elivira to hint at Ruth's sex life.

reply

Sorry, I am still drawing a blank here. What about their "bedroom" relations? It was Ruth's most frustrating night, why is that obvious? Are all her nights frustrating? Sorry to be so dense and thick.

reply

(3 years later)
When saying "the answer is obvious" Elvira means the *retort* is obvious, in other words she insinuates this was hardly the most frustrating night that Ruth had ever encountered.

"I am like Cryptonite to men. Cryptonite dipped in cellulite!"

reply

Thanks. I'm guessing that this has sexual connotations lol.

reply

Yup, it comes from the combination of the words "frustrating" and "night" as night is understood as the time for romance.
Basically she is exposing the husband's poor... nightly performances, or at least their combined lack of sexual magic.

"I am like Cryptonite to men. Cryptonite dipped in cellulite!"

reply