The Phantom President 1932
"Vote the Laugh Ticket"
Dive into the delightfully devious world of *The Phantom President (1932)*, a pre-Code comedy-musical that blends political satire with vaudeville charm. Directed by the versatile Norman Taurog, this 78-minute romp stars George M.
Director: Norman Taurog
Cast
George M. Cohan
Theodore K. Blair / Peter Varney
Claudette Colbert
Felicia Hammond
Jimmy Durante
Curly
George Barbier
Ronkton
Sidney Toler
Aikenhead
Louise Mackintosh
Senantor Scranton
Jameson Thomas
Jerrido
Julius McVicker
Melrose
Hooper Atchley
Announcer (uncredited)
Ed Brady
Sailor (uncredited)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *The Phantom President (1932)* about?
This zany comedy-musical follows Doc Varney, a fast-talking huckster hired as a double for a stiff, uncharismatic presidential candidate. As Varney charms the candidate's love interest and fools the public, his own plans take an unpredictable turn, forcing him to confront the chaos of his impersonation.
Who directed *The Phantom President*?
Norman Taurog, a director known for his versatility across comedy and drama, helmed *The Phantom President*.
Who stars in *The Phantom President*?
The film features George M. Cohan as Doc Varney, Claudette Colbert as Felicia, Jimmy Durante in a standout role, alongside George Barbier and Sidney Toler.
Is *The Phantom President (1932)* worth watching?
With its sharp political satire, energetic musical numbers, and standout performances, *The Phantom President* is a hidden gem of pre-Code cinema. While it may not have a rating, its blend of humor and originality makes it a rewarding watch for fans of classic comedies.
How long is *The Phantom President*?
*The Phantom President* runs for 78 minutes, perfect for a brisk, entertaining experience.
The Phantom President (1932): A Comedy-Musical Political Masquerade — Full Info
Dive into the delightfully devious world of *The Phantom President (1932)*, a pre-Code comedy-musical that blends political satire with vaudeville charm. Directed by the versatile Norman Taurog, this 78-minute romp stars George M. Cohan as the flamboyant huckster Doc Varney, a double hired to spice up the image of a stiff banker running for president. Claudette Colbert and Jimmy Durante deliver knockout performances, adding romance and riotous humor to a plot thick with mistaken identities and backstage scheming.
The film crackles with the energy of a medicine-show circus, where glamour clashes with graft and love tangles with deception. As election eve looms, Varney's charade spins wildly out of control, forcing him to confront his own ambitions—and the unexpected consequences of impersonating a man he barely resembles. With its sly wit and snappy musical numbers, *The Phantom President* is a time capsule of 1930s escapism, offering a wink to democracy's absurdities while keeping audiences thoroughly entertained.
