I didn't know about this film until I saw it on YouTube while trolling for pre-code films. I was very impressed. The word to describe it is "droll", perhaps the best example I've ever seen. Roland Young plays, well, Roland Young. He's always a delight. But the highlight of the film is Lillian Gish as a sensible woman with a wicked streak. At the tea party for the butler's wife and sons she is perfectly wonderful, killing them (figuratively) with kindness. She plays it absolutely straight in a way that is laugh out loud funny. I doubt many actresses could have carried it off.
I admit the courtroom scenes are downright silly but they work. Remember that at this time Paramount was also making Duck Soup. I love it when the supposed audience joins in with the fun. Over all, a film I'll watch again, next time with a quality DVD.
I admit the courtroom scenes are downright silly but they work. Remember that at this time Paramount was also making Duck Soup. I love it when the supposed audience joins in with the fun. Over all, a film I'll watch again, next time with a quality DVD.