The Dummy Owner 1938
In this 1938 comedy short directed by Jean Yarbrough, Leon Errol stars as an ordinary man unwittingly thrust into an extraordinary situation when his boss tasks him with secretly owning a prized racehorse.
Director: Jean Yarbrough
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *The Dummy Owner* (1938) about?
The film follows Leon Errol as he's tricked into officially owning a racehorse for his boss, only to face ridicule, confusion, and domestic trouble when the secret gets out. His lack of horse knowledge turns a simple favor into a comedic nightmare of misplaced pride and marital strife.
Who directed *The Dummy Owner*?
Jean Yarbrough directed this 1938 comedy short, known for his work in the era's lighthearted genre films.
Who stars in *The Dummy Owner*?
Leon Errol headlines the film, supported by Maxine Jennings, Billy Franey, and Frank O'Connor.
Is *The Dummy Owner* (1938) worth watching?
While it's a short slice-of-life comedy from the late '30s, *The Dummy Owner* holds up as a charming showcase of Leon Errol's physical comedy. Its themes of deception and domesticity give it a timeless feel, though modern viewers may find its pacing and humor dated.
How long is *The Dummy Owner*?
The Dummy Owner runs for 18 minutes.
The Dummy Owner (1938) — A Comedy Where Identity Becomes a Racing Disaster
In this 1938 comedy short directed by Jean Yarbrough, Leon Errol stars as an ordinary man unwittingly thrust into an extraordinary situation when his boss tasks him with secretly owning a prized racehorse. Though the paperwork makes Leon the official owner, he soon discovers the arrangement comes with more headaches than horsepower—especially when his wife catches wind of the deception.
As Leon navigates the unpredictable world of horse racing with zero experience beyond placing bets, he's forced to learn fast while dodging scandal, temper tantrums, and the sheer absurdity of pretending to be someone he's not. Filled with Leon's trademark physical comedy and Yarbrough's sharp timing, *The Dummy Owner* delivers a lighthearted yet sharply observed take on class, disguise, and the chaos that ensues when identity meets impracticality.