The Devil to Pay! Poster

The Devil to Pay! 1930

★ 5.721 votes72 min📅 1930-12-18

"A Gay Dog!..He Had His Day...and His Nights, Too!"

In *The Devil to Pay! (1930)*, directed by George Fitzmaurice, a charming but perpetually broke Willie Hale returns to his London family's estate, only to find his father far from delighted by his latest financial misadventures.

Director: George Fitzmaurice

Cast

Ronald Colman
Ronald Colman
Willie Hale
Loretta Young
Loretta Young
Dorothy Hope
Frederick Kerr
Frederick Kerr
Lord Leland Hale
David Torrence
David Torrence
Mr. Hope
Florence Britton
Florence Britton
Susan Hale
Myrna Loy
Myrna Loy
Mary Crayle
Paul Cavanagh
Paul Cavanagh
Grand Duke Paul
Crauford Kent
Crauford Kent
Arthur Hale
Frances Dade
Frances Dade
Bidder for Bed (uncredited)
Elsie Esmond
Molly - Mary Crayle's Maid (uncredited)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Devil to Pay! (1930) about?

This 1930 comedy-romance follows Willie Hale, a charming but reckless spendthrift who returns to his family's London home after yet another financial disaster. Desperate to stay, he sets his sights on Dorothy Hope, the wealthy heiress whose father is about to marry her off to a Russian aristocrat—until Willie's persuasive charm throws a wrench in their plans.

Who directed The Devil to Pay!?

George Fitzmaurice directed this 1930 comedy-romance, known for his skill in blending sophisticated dialogue with lighthearted storytelling.

Who stars in The Devil to Pay!?

The film stars Ronald Colman as Willie Hale, Loretta Young as Dorothy Hope, Frederick Kerr as her father, and Myrna Loy in an early role.

Is The Devil to Pay! (1930) worth watching?

For fans of Pre-Code comedies and classic Hollywood charm, *The Devil to Pay!* (1930) is a delightful pick, thanks to its clever script and the effortless charisma of Ronald Colman. While it may not be a cinematic landmark, its breezy pacing and romantic escapades make it a charming time capsule of the era.

How long is The Devil to Pay!?

The Devil to Pay! runs for 72 minutes.

About The Devil to Pay! (1930) — A Pre-Code Comedy Romance with Ronald Colman

In *The Devil to Pay! (1930)*, directed by George Fitzmaurice, a charming but perpetually broke Willie Hale returns to his London family's estate, only to find his father far from delighted by his latest financial misadventures. With nothing but his silver tongue to rely on, Willie quickly sets his sights on wealthy Dorothy Hope, whose father's linoleum empire is about to be tied to a Russian aristocrat's fortune—until Willie's effortless charisma turns the tables. A sparkling blend of comedy and romance, this Pre-Code gem thrives on quick wit, romantic tension, and the timeless allure of a roguish hero who charms his way into trouble and out of it—sometimes.

Fitzmaurice crafts a lighthearted yet elegant atmosphere, buoyed by Ronald Colman's suave performance as the lovable ne'er-do-well and Loretta Young's radiant turn as the object of his affection. The film's breezy pacing and sharp dialogue reflect the era's sophisticated comedies, where romance and mischief go hand in hand. With its playful title and witty repartee, *The Devil to Pay!* (1930) delivers a delightful escape into 1930s glamour, where even the most reckless schemes feel like part of the fun.