Love That Brute

In this screwball comedy, a ruthless gangster, 'Bottle' Cap Wilson, attempts to go straight by running a reformatory for delinquent girls. His tough exterior clashes with the innocent girls and their well-meaning matron. Complications arise when his former associates try to pull him back into his old life, and he finds himself falling for the matron.

Love That Brute was generally seen as a light, frothy comedy with some amusing moments, largely carried by its cast. While not a critical darling, it found an audience who enjoyed its slapstick humor and predictable romantic plot. It's often remembered as a typical studio comedy of its era.

• Praised for its energetic performances, particularly from Keenan Wynn and Cesar Romero.
• Cited as a lighthearted and amusing, if somewhat formulaic, romantic comedy.
• Noted for its humorous situations arising from the gangster's attempt at reform.

Google audience: Audience reception data for this film is not readily available from Google user reviews.

The film's original title was 'The Big Steal', but it was changed to 'Love That Brute' to capitalize on the popularity of the phrase 'love that' used in advertising at the time.