Is Oil for the Lamps of China Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Oil for the Lamps of China is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 97 minutes and offers a solid storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Oil for the Lamps of China Review
Last updated: January 9, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1935, Oil for the Lamps of China enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on An American oil company representative risks sacrificing his marriage for his career in the rural lands of China. Under the direction of Mervyn LeRoy, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Pat O'Brien, Josephine Hutchinson, Jean Muir. The chemistry between the leads drives the emotional core of the movie, making the stakes feel genuine.
Technical Aspects & Direction
From a technical standpoint, Oil for the Lamps of China offers a competent presentation. The cinematography aligns well with the tone, keeping the narrative moving at a brisk pace.
Where to Watch
As of January 2026, Oil for the Lamps of China is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US and UK, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45 days after the theatrical release. Check your local listings for specific showtimes.
Final Thoughts
With an audience rating of 7.3/10, the reception has been generally positive. For fans of Drama, it serves as a worthy addition to the watchlist.
Cast of Oil for the Lamps of China
- Pat O'Brien – Stephen Chase
- Josephine Hutchinson – Hester Adams Chase
- Jean Muir – Alice Wellman
- Lyle Talbot – Jim
- Arthur Byron – No. 1 Boss
Top Highlights
Pat O'BrienStephen Chase
Josephine HutchinsonHester Adams Chase
Jean MuirAlice Wellman
Lyle TalbotJim
Arthur ByronNo. 1 Boss
John EldredgeDon Wellman
Donald CrispJ.T. McCarger
Willie FungKin
Tetsu KomaiHo
Henry O'NeillEdward Hartford
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 7.3/10, and global collection metrics, Oil for the Lamps of China stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1935 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Oil for the Lamps of China movie hit or flop?
Oil for the Lamps of China is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 7.3/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Drama movies.
Is Oil for the Lamps of China worth watching?
Yes, Oil for the Lamps of China is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Drama cinema.
What genre is Oil for the Lamps of China?
Oil for the Lamps of China is a Drama movie that An American oil company representative risks sacrificing his marriage for his career in the rural lands of China....
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