Little Man, What Now? - A Hilarious Romp Through Pre-Code Hollywood!

“Little Man, What Now?” (1934) is a delightful pre-Code comedy that throws us headfirst into the tumultuous life of little-guy Charlie Smith, played by the inimitable Robert Montgomery. Forget Depression woes; this film is a whirlwind of wit and romance set against the vibrant backdrop of 1930s New York City.

Charlie, a scrappy but lovable con artist with aspirations of grandeur, finds himself in a predicament after inheriting a tidy sum from his late aunt. But instead of settling down, Charlie decides to live it up, indulging in extravagant pleasures and attracting the attention of vivacious showgirl, Mabel (played by the charming Constance Bennett).

The plot thickens when Mabel, unaware of Charlie’s true identity, is smitten with his facade of wealth. Their whirlwind romance leads them through a series of misadventures, including encounters with shady characters, jealous boyfriends, and even a trip to Atlantic City.

As Charlie navigates the complexities of love and deceit, he must ultimately confront his own moral compass and decide whether to embrace honesty or cling to his fabricated world. The film culminates in a hilarious climax that exposes Charlie’s true nature, leading to unexpected consequences for both him and Mabel.

The Cast: A Stellar Ensemble

“Little Man, What Now?” boasts a cast of talented actors who bring their characters to life with charisma and comedic timing.

• Robert Montgomery as Charlie Smith: Montgomery delivers a captivating performance as the roguish but ultimately good-hearted Charlie. His charm and wit make him impossible not to root for despite his occasional lapses in judgement.
• Constance Bennett as Mabel: Bennett shines as the vivacious and independent Mabel, perfectly capturing her character’s blend of sophistication and naivete. Her chemistry with Montgomery is undeniable, making their on-screen relationship both humorous and believable.
• Edward Arnold as Joe “The Shark” Martin: Arnold portrays a ruthless gangster who serves as Charlie’s nemesis. His menacing presence adds tension to the story, highlighting the danger that lurks beneath the surface of Charlie’s carefree lifestyle.

Themes: Love, Deceit, and Redemption

Beneath the layer of humor and escapism, “Little Man, What Now?” explores deeper themes about love, deceit, and the consequences of our actions.

• Love in the Face of Deception: The film examines the complexities of love when one partner is hiding their true identity. Charlie’s fabricated persona initially attracts Mabel, but as their relationship deepens, he struggles with the guilt of his deception.

• The Lure of Easy Money: Charlie’s initial decision to live it up after inheriting money reflects a common human desire for instant gratification. However, his pursuit of pleasure ultimately leads him down a path fraught with danger and unforeseen consequences.

• Redemption Through Honesty: As Charlie confronts the truth about himself, he embarks on a journey towards redemption. The film suggests that genuine love can only blossom when built on honesty and trust.

Production Highlights: Pre-Code Sensibility

Directed by Edward H. Griffith and released during Hollywood’s “pre-Code” era (before the enforcement of stricter censorship guidelines in 1934), “Little Man, What Now?” displays a boldness and frankness uncommon in later films.

The film’s dialogue is sharp and witty, often laced with double entendres and allusions to adult themes. This pre-Code sensibility adds a layer of sophistication and realism rarely seen in comedic films of that era.

Musical Interludes: The soundtrack features a blend of popular tunes from the 1930s, enhancing the film’s lively atmosphere and reflecting the spirit of the Jazz Age.

A Timeless Classic

“Little Man, What Now?” remains a timeless classic for its engaging story, memorable characters, and refreshing pre-Code sensibility. It offers a glimpse into a bygone era of Hollywood filmmaking while delivering a thoroughly entertaining experience for modern audiences. So next time you’re looking for a lighthearted but thought-provoking film with a dash of vintage charm, consider taking a trip down memory lane with Charlie Smith in “Little Man, What Now?”