Is Beg, Borrow or Steal Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1937)

📖 The Core Premise

With the release of Beg, Borrow or Steal (1937), audiences are invited back into the world of Comedy, Romance. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "We find con-man Ingraham Steward living by his wits by steering wealthy Paris visitors to sellers of fake paintings and other assorted dodges. He and his wife, Agatha, have been separated for 15 years, but he promises to give their daughter, Joyce, a lavish wedding at his "château" in France. The fact that he doesn't have a château in France is just a minor trifle. He induces the caretaker, Bill Cherau, of a large country estate to allow it to be used for the wedding. The wedding party arrives and Bill falls madly in love with Joyce and she with him, but a gal has gotta do what a gal has gotta do, and her intended marriage to stuffed-shirt Horace Miller stays on the books. But Steward has a change of heart and he tells one and all that he and his friends, Von Gersdorff, Lefevre, Iznamof, Clifton Summitt and Sasch, are all frauds and crooks. Horace and his family stalk out, which is just fine with Joyce as her true love, the caretaker, is waiting on the grounds."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. In Beg, Borrow or Steal, Frank Morgan delivers a serviceable performance that keeps the narrative moving. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Comedy. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is Beg, Borrow or Steal worth your time? If you appreciate Comedy, Romance films that take risks, this is likely a decent one-time watch. However, if you are looking for a flawless masterpiece, you might find some plot points predictable.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, Beg, Borrow or Steal is a mixed bag with some redeeming qualities. With a runtime of 72 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Watch on OTT.