Movie spotlight
The Panic Is On
Charley's in love with the daughter of a financier who wants her to insist that Chas have a pile of cash before she marries him. But, the Depression is everywhere: Charley's behind on his rent and nearly everyone he meets is down on their luck. After reading a "how to" book on the power of a forceful will, Charley applies the lessons with mixed results, but he does land a job that includes delivering a shake-down letter to his girlfriend's father. Is the naïve Charley going to end up in jail?
Insights
Plot Summary
A hapless individual finds himself caught in a downward spiral of financial misfortune during the early days of the Great Depression. He attempts various schemes to make ends meet, often with comical and disastrous results. The film follows his increasingly desperate attempts to escape his dire circumstances, highlighting the pervasive anxiety of the era.
Critical Reception
As a short comedy from the era, "The Panic Is On" was likely viewed as a brief, lighthearted diversion. Contemporary reviews, if any exist, would likely focus on its comedic elements and the performance of its cast, rather than deep thematic analysis.
What Reviewers Say
Humorous portrayal of financial struggles.
Features lively performances from its cast.
A lighthearted take on a serious subject.
Google audience: Audience reception for this short film from 1931 is not readily available through modern platforms. It likely received individual audience appreciation as a brief comedic short shown in cinemas of the time.
Fun Fact
This short film was produced during the height of the Great Depression, reflecting the economic anxieties of the time through a comedic lens.
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