Public Jitterbug No. 1 (1938) movie backdrop
Public Jitterbug No. 1 (1938) movie poster
193821 minMusic
Audience VerdictAVERAGE

Public Jitterbug No. 1

Public Jitterbug No. 1 Movie Hit or Flop?

FLOP

Verdict:Public Jitterbug No. 1 is a confirmed FLOP based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.

With a rating of 5.3/10, it has delivered a mixed experience for fans of the Music genre.

Is Public Jitterbug No. 1 Worth Watching?

Answer: Maybe not, Public Jitterbug No. 1 is likely a skip if you enjoy Music movies.

It features a runtime of 21 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.

5.33 votes
21Minutes
1938Release Year
Visual Story
Advertisement

Public Jitterbug No. 1 Review

Last updated: January 11, 2026

🎬 The Premise

Released in 1938, Public Jitterbug No. 1 enters the Music genre with a narrative focused on The government has set up a special agency to stamp out what it considers the number one public menace: the jitterbug. Under the direction of Joseph Henabery, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.

🎭 Cast & Performance

The film is anchored by performances from Betty Hutton. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.

🎥 Technical Mastery & Style

From a technical standpoint, Public Jitterbug No. 1 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, Public Jitterbug No. 1 resonates with current cultural themes in the Music 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 early 2026, Public Jitterbug No. 1 is available in theaters worldwide. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.

📖 Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown

The plot of Public Jitterbug No. 1 centers on a unique premise within the Music landscape. The government has set up a special agency to stamp out what it considers the number one public menace: the jitterbug. They aren't after the many followers, but the primary perpetrator of the jitterbug, who they've coined "Public Jitterbug No. 1". Hal Sturges is one of several agents working on the case who goes undercover as a dancer in Broadway haunts to find and capture Public Jitterbug No. 1. In his investigation, Hal runs across the beautiful Betty, a seemingly innocent bystander. Hal and Betty fall for each other. However Betty is unaware that Hal is a federal agent, and Hal is unaware that Betty is Public Jitterbug No. 1. Will their roles as agent and public menace number one take priority over their roles of man and woman? The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1938 cinema will find fairly predictable.

💡 Ending Explained & Sequel Potential

The ending of Public Jitterbug No. 1 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 Public Jitterbug No. 1 sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.

📝 Final Editorial Verdict

Final verdict for Public Jitterbug No. 1 (1938): with an audience rating of 5.3/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Music cinema who appreciate attention to detail.

Parents Guide & Age Rating

Not Rated
Public Jitterbug No. 1 has not been officially rated yet.

Final Verdict

Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.3/10, and global collection metrics, Public Jitterbug No. 1 stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1938 cinematic year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Public Jitterbug No. 1 movie hit or flop?

Public Jitterbug No. 1 has received mixed reviews with a 5.3/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.

Is Public Jitterbug No. 1 worth watching?

Public Jitterbug No. 1 is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Music movies, but read reviews first.

Where can I watch Public Jitterbug No. 1 online?

Public Jitterbug No. 1 may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.

Explore More Verdicts

Expert Consensus
Live Rating
MOVIEMX
★ 5.3
Public Jitterbug No. 1
<a href="https://moviemx.in/review/public-jitterbug-no-1-288989" 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;">★ 5.3</div><div style="color:#888;font-size:12px;font-weight:500;">Public Jitterbug No. 1</div></div></a>

Share this rating on your blog or website. Includes a 100% organic backlink.

More with Betty Hutton

View full filmography

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Is Public Jitterbug No. 1 movie hit or flop?

Public Jitterbug No. 1 has received mixed reviews with a 5.3/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.

Is Public Jitterbug No. 1 worth watching?

Public Jitterbug No. 1 is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Music movies, but read reviews first.

Where can I watch Public Jitterbug No. 1 online?

Public Jitterbug No. 1 may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.

What is the story of Public Jitterbug No. 1?

Public Jitterbug No. 1 is a Music movie that follows: The government has set up a special agency to stamp out what it considers the number one public menace: the jitterbug. They aren't after the many followers, but the primary perpetrator of the jitterbu...

Is Public Jitterbug No. 1 family friendly?

Public Jitterbug No. 1 is classified as Music. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.

What language is Public Jitterbug No. 1 available in?

Public Jitterbug No. 1 is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.

Synopsis

The government has set up a special agency to stamp out what it considers the number one public menace: the jitterbug. They aren't after the many followers, but the primary perpetrator of the jitterbug, who they've coined "Public Jitterbug No. 1". Hal Sturges is one of several agents working on the case who goes undercover as a dancer in Broadway haunts to find and capture Public Jitterbug No. 1. In his investigation, Hal runs across the beautiful Betty, a seemingly innocent bystander. Hal and Betty fall for each other. However Betty is unaware that Hal is a federal agent, and Hal is unaware that Betty is Public Jitterbug No. 1. Will their roles as agent and public menace number one take priority over their roles of man and woman?

Critic Reviews

No reviews found for this filter.