Is Rufus Jones for President Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1933)

📖 The Core Premise

With the release of Rufus Jones for President (1933), audiences are invited back into the world of Comedy, Music. 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. "A fantasy satire on politics in which a little boy dreams that he becomes President of the U.S. and his 'mammy' is Vice President. The film spotlights two now legendary performers much earlier in their careers: Ethel Waters and Sammy Davis Jr. In his first screen appearance, around the age of seven, pint-sized Davis sings, dances and clowns. Nicknamed 'the beanpole' slim and slinky Waters looks far different from the heavier figure she displayed in Pinky (1949) and Member of the Wedding (1953). Statuesque in a long glamorous white gown, she sings her big hit "Am I Blue." Davis, in turn sings "I'll Be Glad When You're Dead You Rascal You." (Separate Cinema)"

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. While not a career-best, Ethel Waters's presence adds a necessary stability to the proceedings. 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 Rufus Jones for President worth your time? If you appreciate Comedy, Music 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, Rufus Jones for President is a mixed bag with some redeeming qualities. With a runtime of 21 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Watch on OTT.