Give Me Action (1930) User Reviews

Starts As A Comedy, Turns Serious

[boblipton · 6/10 · 25 November 2021]

In this early sound comedy for RKO, successful businessman Harry Holman is looking forward to becoming ambassador to Great Britain. He starts with some cross-talk with his stenographer, Marcia Manning, but after the first half, this two-reel short turns serious.

I found it a little hokey and pat, but there's little doubt about the excellence of the performers. I'd also like to know who the cameraman was; he uses a lively, moving camera for 1930.

As long as you aren't expecting a comedy, it's a pleasant little short film.

[planktonrules · 6/10 · 21 November 2021]

Most shorts from the 1930s-50s are comedies and I assumed this one was. Well, in hindsight I don't think it was...but it was pleasant viewing.

Harry Holman plays Mr. Stanton, a rich businessman. The elevator operator in his building comes to his office to talk and you learn that the men went to Yale together and apparently there was a bet between them as to which one would become a bigger success. What's next? See the film.

The film works for me because Holman was a film character actor and he pretty much carries the short. Not a brilliant film but pleasant and enjoyable...and a lesson about what success actually means.