YUP...I agree that the message it flings to women is one of SUBSERVIENCE to men...BUT...it is a play of its time during the Elizabethan era where indeed a wife's place was in the home. Some cultures still adhere to this standard. However...it is one of the finest comedies every written and both Taylor as well as Burton do it great justice. The costumes are exquisite and the cinematography is also incredible. This work of art remains truly entertaining and comical to most of us although we ladies now inhabit a different society where we can be educated, travel, work, and even remain single without anyone batting an eyelash anymore !!!!!