W. C. Fields dominates every frame of the comedy It’s a Gift, directed by Norman McLeod.
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Theatrical poster to It’s a Gift (1934)
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This was his sixteenth sound film, and his fifth in 1934 alone of the prolific actor during the Depression era.
The tale depicts the trials and tribulations of a grocer as he battles with al around him: a shrewish wife (Kathleen Howard), an incompetent assistant, and assorted annoying children, customers, and salesmen.
The film contains certain routines and sketches that Fields had developed before, such ‘The Picnic,” “A Joy Ride,” ‘The Back Porch.”
Critics have pointed out that, thematically, Fields has often played an “ordinary everyman” resenting and fighting domestic entrapment.
It’s one of several Paramount movies, in which Fields appeared with child actor Baby LeRoy, as co-star.
Credits:
Directed by Norman Z. McLeod
Written by Jack Cunningham, based on The Comic Supplement
1925 play by J.P. McEvoy, story by Charles Bogle (Fields)
Produced by William LeBaron
Cinematography Henry Sharp
Music by John Leipold
Distributed by Paramount Pictures
Release date: November 17, 1934
Running time: 68 minutes
