Big Hearted Herbert 1934
"The hit that kept Broadway laughing for one solid year!"
Big Hearted Herbert (1934), directed by William Keighley, delivers a sharp 60-minute comedy that finds humor in domestic friction.
Director: William Keighley
Cast
Aline MacMahon
Elizabeth Kalness
Guy Kibbee
Herbert Kalness
Patricia Ellis
Alice Kalness
Helen Lowell
Martha
Phillip Reed
Andrew Goodrich
Robert Barrat
Jim
Henry O'Neill
Goodrich Sr.
Marjorie Gateson
Amy Godrich
Nella Walker
Mrs. Goodrich
Junior Durkin
Junior Kainess
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Big Hearted Herbert (1934) about?
This 1934 comedy follows Herbert Kalness, a cantankerous and stingy patriarch whose dinner-party insults to his daughter's fiancé and in-laws spark a family revolt. His wife steps in to orchestrate a lesson in civility, blending humor with a touching message about kindness and connection.
Who directed Big Hearted Herbert?
William Keighley directed Big Hearted Herbert. Known for his work in early sound-era comedies and dramas, Keighley brings a sharp, dialogue-driven style to this lively domestic farce.
Who stars in Big Hearted Herbert?
The film stars Aline MacMahon, Guy Kibbee, Patricia Ellis, Helen Lowell, and Phillip Reed as the core family navigating Herbert's stubbornness.
Is Big Hearted Herbert (1934) worth watching?
Absolutely, if you enjoy classic comedies with wit and heart. Its snappy dialogue, strong performances, and crisp 60-minute runtime make it a satisfying pick for fans of 1930s screwball-style humor. It's a testament to clever storytelling over slapstick excess.
How long is Big Hearted Herbert?
The runtime of Big Hearted Herbert is 60 minutes.
About Big Hearted Herbert (1934) — A Classic Comedy of Manners and Matrimony
Big Hearted Herbert (1934), directed by William Keighley, delivers a sharp 60-minute comedy that finds humor in domestic friction. The story unfolds after miserly Herbert Kalness alienates his daughter's fiancé and future in-laws at a lavish dinner party, sparking family chaos that feels both timeless and relatable. Aline MacMahon shines as his quick-witted wife, who takes charge to soften his gruff edges, while Guy Kibbee and Patricia Ellis round out a cast delivering rapid-fire wit and warmth. Set against the golden age of screwball comedy, the film balances biting satire with heartfelt moments, showcasing 1930s New York as a stage for marital mayhem and personal growth.
With its brisk runtime and clever dialogue, Big Hearted Herbert (1934) remains a delightful snapshot of family dynamics gone awry—and the gentle wisdom behind teaching stubborn hearts to change their ways.
