Beg, Borrow or Steal
We find con-man Ingraham Steward living by his wits by steering wealthy Paris visitors to sellers of fake paintings and other assorted dodges. He and his wife, Agatha, have been separated for 15 years, but he promises to give their daughter, Joyce, a lavish wedding at his "château" in France. The fact that he doesn't have a château in France is just a minor trifle. He induces the caretaker, Bill Cherau, of a large country estate to allow it to be used for the wedding. The wedding party arrives and Bill falls madly in love with Joyce and she with him, but a gal has gotta do what a gal has gotta do, and her intended marriage to stuffed-shirt Horace Miller stays on the books. But Steward has a change of heart and he tells one and all that he and his friends, Von Gersdorff, Lefevre, Iznamof, Clifton Summitt and Sasch, are all frauds and crooks. Horace and his family stalk out, which is just fine with Joyce as her true love, the caretaker, is waiting on the grounds.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young woman desperately needs money to save her father's failing business. She concocts a scheme to marry a wealthy man but finds herself caught between two suitors, one charming and penniless, the other rich but somewhat cold. Her attempts to navigate this romantic and financial entanglement lead to comical misunderstandings and a race against time.
Critical Reception
Beg, Borrow or Steal received a generally lukewarm reception from critics, with many finding it a light and predictable romantic comedy. While performances were deemed adequate, the plot was often cited as its weakest element, failing to offer significant originality or depth.
What Reviewers Say
- A formulaic romantic comedy that relies on familiar tropes.
- Performances are competent but do little to elevate the thin plot.
- Lacks the charm and wit to be truly memorable.
Google audience: Information not available.
Fun Fact
The film was one of several comedies made by Republic Pictures during this period, aiming for light entertainment rather than critical acclaim.
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