Hired Wife (1940) movie backdrop
Hired Wife (1940) movie poster
194095 minComedy

Hired Wife

Hired Wife Movie Hit or Flop?

HIT

Verdict:Hired Wife is a confirmed HIT based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.

With a rating of 6.8/10, it has delivered a mixed experience for fans of the Comedy genre.

Is Hired Wife Worth Watching?

Answer: Yes, Hired Wife is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Comedy movies.

It features a runtime of 95 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.

6.84 votes
95Minutes
1940Release Year
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Hired Wife Review

Last updated: January 10, 2026

🎬 The Premise

Released in 1940, Hired Wife enters the Comedy genre with a narrative focused on Ad man Stephen Dexter asks his secretary Kendall to marry him as a loophole in order to protect his finances during an important business deal. Under the direction of William A. Seiter, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.

🎭 Cast & Performance

The film is anchored by performances from Rosalind Russell, Brian Aherne, Virginia Bruce. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.

🎥 Technical Mastery & Style

From a technical standpoint, Hired Wife offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.

🌍 Social Impact & Cultural Context

Beyond the narrative, Hired Wife resonates with current cultural themes in the Comedy space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.

📺 Where to Watch & Streaming Info

As of January 2026, Hired Wife is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release. Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.

📖 Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown

The plot of Hired Wife centers on a unique premise within the Comedy landscape. Ad man Stephen Dexter asks his secretary Kendall to marry him as a loophole in order to protect his finances during an important business deal. Once the deal is completed, he asks Kendall for a divorce and is dismayed when she refuses. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1940 cinema will find fairly predictable.

💡 Ending Explained & Sequel Potential

The ending of Hired Wife has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Hired Wife sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.

📝 Final Editorial Verdict

Final verdict for Hired Wife (1940): with an audience rating of 6.8/10, the reception has been generally positive. It is a must-watch for fans of Comedy cinema who appreciate attention to detail.

Parents Guide & Age Rating

NR
Hired Wife is rated NR.

Final Verdict

Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.8/10, and global collection metrics, Hired Wife stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1940 cinematic year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hired Wife movie hit or flop?

Hired Wife has received mixed reviews with a 6.8/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.

Is Hired Wife worth watching?

Hired Wife is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Comedy movies, but read reviews first.

What genre is Hired Wife?

Hired Wife is a Comedy movie that Ad man Stephen Dexter asks his secretary Kendall to marry him as a loophole in order to protect his finances during an important business deal. Once t...

Explore More Verdicts

Expert Consensus
Live Rating
MOVIEMX
★ 6.8
Hired Wife
<a href="https://moviemx.in/review/hired-wife-121002" target="_blank" style="text-decoration:none;"><div style="background:#121212;border:1px solid #f5c518;border-radius:12px;padding:15px;width:180px;text-align:center;font-family:sans-serif;box-shadow:0 10px 20px rgba(0,0,0,0.3);"><div style="color:#f5c518;font-size:10px;font-weight:900;letter-spacing:2px;">MOVIEMX</div><div style="color:white;font-size:28px;font-weight:900;margin:8px 0;">★ 6.8</div><div style="color:#888;font-size:12px;font-weight:500;">Hired Wife</div></div></a>

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More with Rosalind Russell

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People Also Ask (FAQs)

Is Hired Wife movie hit or flop?

Hired Wife has received mixed reviews with a 6.8/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.

Is Hired Wife worth watching?

Hired Wife is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Comedy movies, but read reviews first.

What genre is Hired Wife?

Hired Wife is a Comedy movie that Ad man Stephen Dexter asks his secretary Kendall to marry him as a loophole in order to protect his finances during an important business deal. Once t...

Is Hired Wife family friendly?

Yes, Hired Wife is suitable for family viewing as it falls under the Comedy genre.

Where can I watch Hired Wife?

You can find streaming options and availability for Hired Wife on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.

Who is the main cast of Hired Wife?

Hired Wife features a talented cast. Check our "Top Cast" section to see the full list of actors and the characters they play in this film.

How long is the movie Hired Wife?

The runtime and duration of Hired Wife are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.

Critic Reviews

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