Movie spotlight
Wedding Present
Charlie Mason and Rusty Fleming are star reporters on a Chicago tabloid who are romantically involved as well. Although skilled in ferreting out great stories, they often behave in an unprofessional and immature manner. After their shenanigans cause their frustrated city editor to resign, the publisher promotes Charlie to the job, a decision based on the premise that only a slacker would be able crack down on other shirkers and underachievers. His pomposity soon alienates most of his co-workers and causes Rusty to move to New York. Charlie resigns and along with gangster friend Smiles Benson tries to win Rusty back before she marries a stuffy society author.
Insights
Plot Summary
A wealthy young woman, wealthy heiress Julia Sterling, secretly marries struggling journalist Charlie "Chuck" Martin. To keep her father from disinheriting her, she claims Chuck is merely her chauffeur. Chuck, determined to prove his worth, takes on a dangerous assignment to write a story about a notorious gangster, hoping the resulting publicity will convince Julia's father of his capabilities.
Critical Reception
Wedding Present was a lighthearted romantic comedy that performed modestly at the box office. While not a critical standout, it was seen as an enjoyable if predictable entry in the genre, appreciated for its star power and escapist themes during the Great Depression.
What Reviewers Say
The film offers a charming if familiar romantic plot.
Joan Blondell and Dick Powell provide appealing chemistry.
Edward Everett Horton adds comedic relief with his usual flair.
Google audience: Audience reception information for this older film is not readily available.
Fun Fact
The film's premise of a secret marriage and a wealthy father's disapproval was a common trope in romantic comedies of the era, often used to create humorous misunderstandings and drive the plot.
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