It's hard to put into words, but yeah there was definitely a certain charm to this movie (and those like it). The acting and production value are different. Soundtracks were so much better back in the past too. Even in small movies like this.

True!
Hitler

sadly I believe you are right,, you have to go back to the Odd Couple when they were first paired together,, I own both Odd Couples. great watching also.
are you going to bark all day little doggie,, or are you going to bite

But what makes it a classic?
It's funny but fairly predictable. For a film to be a classic, I feel it needs to transcend that.
http://stephenpaultaylor.net

It sure is a classic.
So is the sequel, for that matter. I always love to watch this movie first, followed by "Grumpier Old Men".
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Jim Hutton: talented gorgeous hot hunk; adorable as ElleryQueen; SEXIEST ACTOR EVER

Of course they willmaybe not in your lifetime, but they will eventually.

oh i love this movie. i'd rather watch this any day over half of the crap that's out nowadays. this was back when they still did original films. unlike today they rarely make those.

I can do without it. This kind of feel good nonsense is what makes certain people hate Christmas. My personal issue is that it just wasn't funny enough to me.