Bashful businessman Bob Hope (as Steve Bennett) and his slouching servant Willie Best (as Sam) arrive in Miami Beach, Florida, where Mr. Hope begins working as a stockbroker for pudgy Edward Arnold (as T.T. Ralston). Hope quickly encounters the boss' niece, pretty Paulette Goddard (as Gwen), and enjoys being with her in his cozy office. "You don't have to hit me with no ton of coal," Mr. Best says as he leaves Hope alone with Ms. Goddard. "I guess it's too late for that," replies Hope. Ouch...
Story involves Hope betting Goddard's $10,000 he can tell "Nothing But the Truth" for twenty-four hours. The plot is a comedy staple, and has been done better elsewhere. Lucille Ball's version "Lucy Tells the Truth" (1953) is highly recommended. Prepare for some race and cross-dressing humor; after his co-workers steal his clothes, Hope dons a woman's negligee. This was a dip after his last two box office hits, but not enough to dislodge Hope, who reliably rang up cash registers at the movies for over a decade.
**** Nothing But the Truth (10/10/41) Elliott Nugent ~ Bob Hope, Paulette Goddard, Edward Arnold, Willie Best
Story involves Hope betting Goddard's $10,000 he can tell "Nothing But the Truth" for twenty-four hours. The plot is a comedy staple, and has been done better elsewhere. Lucille Ball's version "Lucy Tells the Truth" (1953) is highly recommended. Prepare for some race and cross-dressing humor; after his co-workers steal his clothes, Hope dons a woman's negligee. This was a dip after his last two box office hits, but not enough to dislodge Hope, who reliably rang up cash registers at the movies for over a decade.
**** Nothing But the Truth (10/10/41) Elliott Nugent ~ Bob Hope, Paulette Goddard, Edward Arnold, Willie Best