Joe and Ethel Turp Call on the President
Joe and Ethel Turp Call on the President

Movie spotlight

Joe and Ethel Turp Call on the President

1939
Movie
70 min
English

Joe and Ethel Turp are up in arms when their faithful old mailman is fired. Unable to get satisfaction on a municipal level, Joe and Ethel plead their mailman's case to the President himself.

Insights

IMDb6.8/10
Director: George StevensGenres: Short film, Comedy, Drama

Plot Summary

A hardworking, honest farmer and his wife, Joe and Ethel Turp, are proud to be able to visit the White House and meet the President. During their visit, they express their concerns about the Dust Bowl and the struggles of farmers across the nation. The President listens empathetically, and the encounter leaves them with renewed hope.

Critical Reception

This short film, produced by Warner Bros. as part of their 'World-Famous American' series, was a piece of wartime propaganda aimed at fostering goodwill and highlighting the struggles of ordinary Americans. It received generally positive attention for its earnest portrayal and message of hope, though its primary function was topical and not artistic innovation.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its simple yet effective storytelling.

  • Commended for its sympathetic portrayal of the American farmer.

  • Seen as a heartwarming and patriotic short.

Google audience: Audience sentiment for this short film, where available, generally focuses on its sincerity and its ability to capture the spirit of a difficult time in American history. Viewers appreciated the relatable characters and the hopeful message delivered by the President's reception.

Fun Fact

The film was made during a time when Hollywood was increasingly contributing to the war effort and national morale, using the President's office and the idea of American resilience as central themes.

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