Give Me Action

Most shorts from the 1930s-50s are comedies and I assumed this one was. Well, in hindsight I don't think it was...but it was pleasant viewing.

Harry Holman plays Mr. Stanton, a rich businessman. The elevator operator in his building comes to his office to talk and you learn that the men went to Yale together and apparently there was a bet between them as to which one would become a bigger success. What's next? See the film.

The film works for me because Holman was a film character actor and he pretty much carries the short. Not a brilliant film but pleasant and enjoyable...and a lesson about what success actually means.

In this early sound comedy for RKO, successful businessman Harry Holman is looking forward to becoming ambassador to Great Britain. He starts with some cross-talk with his stenographer, Marcia Manning, but after the first half, this two-reel short turns serious.

I found it a little hokey and pat, but there's little doubt about the excellence of the performers. I'd also like to know who the cameraman was; he uses a lively, moving camera for 1930.