
It's a Gift
Seen it?1934 | 68 min | Comedy
Why it’s a Sunday Safe Bet
Critics loved it (94% on Rotten Tomatoes), though it had almost no lasting buzz and a lukewarm 6.4 out of 10 from audiences. A safe bet when you want something reliable.
Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.Is it for you?
- Who'll love it
- Made for anyone who wants a laugh. Critics rate it higher than audiences do, so it rewards patience more than it chases thrills.
- The mood
- Light and funny.
- The pace
- Breezy, at 1 hr 8 min.
- What might put you off
- Made in 1934: an older pace and style.
- Audiences were cooler on it than critics.
After he inherits some money, Harold Bissonette ("pronounced bis-on-ay") decides to give up the grocery business, move to California and run an orange grove. Despite his family's objections and the news that the land he bought is worthless, Bissonette packs up and drives out to California with his nagging wife Amelia and children.
How it earned its rating
- CriticsVery strong
94% on Rotten Tomatoes
- AudiencesBelow par
6.4 out of 10
- AwardsNot counted
No major awards or nominations
- Reach & staying powerBelow par
Streaming release that reached a small audience so far; still draws a steady audience long after release
- Buzz & cultural impactWeak
About 10K people sought it out in the past year
Trailer
More like this
Take the Money and RunSaturday SpecialAnother comedy that's easy to miss.
McLintock!Weeknight WatchAnother comedy, though it's more of a weeknight watch.
Cheaper by the Dozen 2Weeknight WatchAnother comedy, though it's more of a weeknight watch.
Cul-de-sacSunday Safe BetAnother comedy, and a safe bet for a quiet night.
Fun with Dick and JaneWeeknight WatchAnother comedy, though it's more of a weeknight watch.
Want more like this, picked just for you? Get my picks
Cast & crew
Directed by Norman Z. McLeod
- W.C. FieldsHarold Bissonette
- Baby LeRoyBaby Dunk
- Kathleen HowardAmelia Bissonette
- Jean RouverolMildred Bissonette
- Julian MadisonJohn Durston
- Tommy BuppNorman Bissonette
- Tammany YoungEverett Ricks
- Morgan WallaceJames Fitchmueller
- Charles SellonMr. Muckle
- Josephine WhittellMrs. Dunk