I'll Give a Million
I'll Give a Million

Movie spotlight

I'll Give a Million

1938
Movie
70 min
English

After saving a tramp from suicide, a millionaire takes his clothing and disappears. Word is out that he will give a million dollars to anyone who is kind to a tramp.

Insights

IMDb6.4/10
Director: Joseph SantellGenres: Comedy, Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

A wealthy and lonely industrialist, pretending to be a tramp, tries to find genuine companionship and love. He encounters a struggling artist and her family, leading to a series of comedic misunderstandings and heartwarming moments as he navigates his manufactured identity. The film explores themes of wealth, poverty, and the true meaning of happiness.

Critical Reception

The film received a mixed to positive reception upon its release, with critics generally praising its lighthearted comedic elements and the performances of its lead actors. Audiences were drawn to its feel-good narrative and romantic undertones, though some found the plot predictable.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its charming performances and gentle humor.

  • Found the plot to be somewhat simplistic but enjoyable.

  • Appreciated the heartwarming themes of finding happiness beyond material wealth.

Google audience: Audience reviews indicate a general enjoyment of the film's light comedic tone and its optimistic message. Many viewers found the premise endearing and the romantic storyline satisfying, though some noted it lacked significant dramatic depth.

Fun Fact

Laird Cregar, who plays the wealthy industrialist in disguise, was a relatively new actor at the time and this role helped to establish him in Hollywood, though he would later become known for more dramatic and villainous roles.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

"Newlander" (Warner Baxter) is a bored millionaire who dives into the sea from his ocean-going yacht to rescue a man. Turns out that "Louis" (Peter Lorre) didn't actually want to be rescued - he's a homeless vagrant with little to look forw...