Movie spotlight
They Had to See Paris
Oklahoma mechanic Pike Peters finds himself part owner of an oil field. His wife Idy, hitherto content, decides the family must go to Paris to get "culture" and meet "the right kind of people." Pike and his grown son and daughter soon have flirtatious French admirers; Idy rents a chateau from an impoverished aristocrat; while Pike responds to each new development with homespun wit. In the inevitable clash, will pretentiousness and sophistication or common sense triumph?
Insights
Plot Summary
The film follows Homer and May Clemons, a rural couple who travel to Paris with their daughter, Blanche. Homer, a shrewd but simple man, finds himself bewildered by Parisian society and its customs. Meanwhile, Blanche falls for a charming count, much to her parents' dismay. Homer must navigate the complexities of European aristocracy and his daughter's romantic entanglements.
Critical Reception
The film was a moderate success, praised for Will Rogers's signature comedic and poignant performance. Critics noted its charm and gentle humor, though some found the plot somewhat predictable. It was seen as a vehicle to showcase Rogers's appeal to a wider audience.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for Will Rogers's endearing and humorous performance.
Appreciated for its lighthearted take on cultural differences.
Mildly criticized for a familiar romantic subplot.
Google audience: Audience reception information is not readily available for this early film.
Fun Fact
This film was one of Will Rogers's earliest successful talkies, helping to solidify his transition from vaudeville and silent films to the sound era.
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