The Baroness And The Butler (1938)

Set in Hungary, the third generation butler (William Powell) in service of the Prime Minister (Henry Stephenson) is unexpectedly elected to the Parliament. The Prime minister represents the conservative government while the butler is part of the progressive party. Based on the play JEAN by Ladislaus Bus Fekete and directed by Walter Lang (THE KING AND I). Who would think a Hungarian play written over 80 years ago would still be so topical today? Addressing class distinction and progressive ideas over conservatism in politics but in a light romantic comedy, I found the movie quite charming. It avoids the schmaltz and obviousness of Capra corn political films like MR. SMITH GOES TO WASHINGTON, MR. DEEDS GOES TO TOWN and MEET JOHN DOE. The French actress Annabella in her American film debut is quite enchanting. It's not a pre code film but the film isn't squeamish about Annabella's married Baroness falling in love with Powell's butler and divorcing her husband (Joseph Schildkraut) to ensure a happy ending. With Lynn Bari, Nigel Bruce and stealing the movie, Helen Westley as the Prime Minister's wife.