Pound Foolish
Pound Foolish

Movie spotlight

Pound Foolish

1940
Movie
20 min
English

An expose of attempts by wealthy people to avoid payment of customs duties. Part of the MGM "Crime Does Not Pay" series.

Insights

IMDb5.8/10
Director: Bernard B. RayGenres: Comedy, Drama

Plot Summary

A struggling writer, Tom Martin, finds himself in a difficult situation when he witnesses a crime and is subsequently blackmailed. He tries to navigate the treacherous waters of deceit and betrayal while attempting to protect his reputation and his love interest, Mary. The film explores themes of ambition, morality, and the consequences of one's actions in a world where appearances can be deceiving.

Critical Reception

Pound Foolish received mixed reviews upon its release. Critics noted its attempts at a compelling narrative and some decent performances, but many felt the plot was convoluted and ultimately unsatisfying. Audience reception was similarly divided, with some appreciating the dramatic elements while others found it to be a rather forgettable B-movie offering.

What Reviewers Say

  • The film attempts a complex plot involving blackmail and a writer's moral compromises.

  • Performances are considered adequate, particularly Barton MacLane in a leading role.

  • The narrative pacing and overall coherence were points of criticism for some reviewers.

Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for 'Pound Foolish' is not readily available, making it difficult to summarize audience sentiment through that platform.

Fun Fact

The film was produced by Bernard B. Ray, a prolific producer and director known for low-budget B-movies during the 1930s and 1940s.

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