The Lady and the Mob (1939)


Starring: Fay Bainter, Ida Lupino, Warren Hymer, Harold Huber

Director: Benjamin Stoloff (US)

Genre: Comedy, Action

Availability: YouTube 

 

Watch Quality   A

There are a few minor skips, but the overall video and audio quality are quite good.

 

Plot Summary

When an elderly but strong-willed woman notices a small increase in her dry-cleaning bill, she grills the business owner, who reveals a criminal protection racket.  She recruits her future daughter-in-law (Lupino) and a group of former crooks to attack corruption head on.

 

Star Power   C+

Lupino is a true star and she has some good moments in this film, but Bainter steals the show as Mrs. Leonard.  The cast has good chemistry but the absurd script shines more than the performances.

 

Chill Factor   B-

Although there is no romance, your date will be relaxed and cheerful as a result of the screwball humor.  Not a bad choice for a laid back date night.

 

Mental Health Check   A+

There is no stress or emotional baggage, simply a plot that becomes increasingly silly.  This brief movie is a great pick to relax after work.

 

Overall Grade   B-

This film doesn't quite rise to the level of a comedy classic, but it's a well written send up of traditional crime-movie tropes.  The ending is a bit predictable, but you will find yourself smiling throughout. 

How do you rate this article?

3


Buster Crabbe
Buster Crabbe

As a classic film enthusiast, I'm here to bring you all the content you've been waiting for since the 1920s. My favorites are 1950s science fiction, 1940s horror, and 1930s comedies. Old-time cinema lives on!


Classic Film Reviews
Classic Film Reviews

Join me in my love of classic cinema, focusing on the 1930s through 1960s.

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