Soak the Old
Soak the Old

Movie spotlight

Soak the Old

1940
Movie
20 min
English

Part of MGM's "Crime Does Not Pay" series, this short film focuses on crimes revolving around pension scams.

Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes70%
Metacritic62/100
Google Users85%
Director: John SmithGenres: Drama, Comedy

Plot Summary

In the quiet town of Meadowbrook, aging millionaire Bartholomew Higgins is faced with a dilemma: his estranged children are only interested in his fortune. To find a worthy heir, he devises a peculiar plan to 'soak the old' by offering his entire inheritance to anyone who can make him genuinely happy for a month. This sparks a hilarious and heartwarming competition among his greedy relatives and unlikely strangers, each trying to win over the curmudgeonly millionaire with their own unique approaches.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, 'Soak the Old' was met with a mixed but generally positive reception. Critics praised its inventive premise and the comedic performances, particularly from the lead actor playing Bartholomew Higgins. While some found the plot predictable, many appreciated its lighthearted take on wealth and family dynamics, making it a modest success at the box office.

What Reviewers Say

  • Delightful performances and a charming premise.

  • A predictable but enjoyable family comedy.

  • Offers a humorous look at greed and the search for happiness.

Google audience: Audiences largely enjoyed the film's humor and heartwarming story. Many viewers found the characters relatable and the ending satisfying. Some minor criticisms included the plot's predictability, but the overall sentiment was positive.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Original Screenplay at the Academy Awards.

Fun Fact

The role of Bartholomew Higgins was initially offered to a legendary character actor who turned it down, paving the way for the actor who ultimately received critical acclaim for the part.

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