Sorrowful Jones (1949)

A New York bookie (Bob Hope) finds himself saddled with a little girl (Mary Jane Saunders) when her father leaves her as a collateral on a bet. The child's father (Paul Lees) is killed by a shifty gambler (Bruce Cabot) which leaves the girl an orphan. Based on a short story by Damon Runyon (previously filmed in 1934 with Shirley Temple) and directed by Sidney Lanfield. The role of Sorrowful Jones offers Bob Hope a role which requires a bit more acting than his usual wise cracking one liners persona and he does well. The film reverts to treacle as it marches to its conclusion which is a pity as the ride was quite enjoyable for the most part. Lucille Ball provides the romantic interest and they have a nice chemistry (they would go on to make three more films together). She's one of Hope's few leading ladies to hold her own with him rather than providing little more than window dressing. The film would be remade twice more in 1962 with Tony Curtis and 1980 with Walter Matthau. Also in the cast: William Demarest and Tom Pedi.