Hands Across the Table 1935
"A Little Fortune Hunter...A Bankrupt Playboy...Both Out to Marry Money..And Laugh at Love!"
In the sparkling world of 1930s screwball romance, *Hands Across the Table (1935)* delivers wit, charm, and a delightfully cynical twist on love.
Director: Mitchell Leisen
Cast
Carole Lombard
Regi Allen
Fred MacMurray
Theodore Drew III
Ralph Bellamy
Allen Macklyn
Astrid Allwyn
Vivian Snowden
Ruth Donnelly
Laura
Marie Prevost
Nona
Murray Alper
Cabbie (uncredited)
Herman Bing
Barber (uncredited)
Marcelle Corday
Celeste (uncredited)
William Demarest
Regi's Date Natty (uncredited)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *Hands Across the Table* (1935) about?
The film follows a clever manicurist and a broke socialite, each scheming to marry for wealth, who unexpectedly discover their own romantic ambitions in the process. Their shared deception leads to a comedic yet tender exploration of love's surprises.
Who directed *Hands Across the Table*?
Mitchell Leisen, a master of blending sophistication with humor, directed this sparkling 1930s rom-com.
Who stars in *Hands Across the Table*?
The film stars Carole Lombard, Fred MacMurray, Ralph Bellamy, Astrid Allwyn, and Ruth Donnelly in a cast that crackles with chemistry.
Is *Hands Across the Table* (1935) worth watching?
Absolutely—its sharp writing, delightful performances, and playful take on love make it a standout screwball comedy. Fans of classic romance with a modern cynicism will find plenty to adore here.
How long is *Hands Across the Table*?
The movie runs for 80 minutes, perfect for a satisfying night of classic Hollywood charm.
About Hands Across the Table (1935) — When Romance Meets the Pursuit of Fortune
In the sparkling world of 1930s screwball romance, *Hands Across the Table (1935)* delivers wit, charm, and a delightfully cynical twist on love. Directed by Mitchell Leisen, this Depression-era comedy follows the unlikely paths of a sharp-witted manicurist and a penniless playboy, both independently plotting to marry for money—only to find themselves unexpectedly entangled in a game of romance they never saw coming. With its razor-sharp dialogue, elegant art-deco settings, and a tone that balances playful sarcasm with genuine heart, the film captures the era's restless spirit. Lombard and MacMurray's electric chemistry turns the premise on its head, blending satire with sincerity as their characters confront the absurdity—and allure—of falling in love when logic insists otherwise.
A classic of the screwball genre, *Hands Across the Table* thrives on its breezy pacing and the infectious energy of its leads, who navigate a world where every handshake might hide a motive. The film's themes of ambition, deception, and serendipitous love feel as timeless as its glamorous aesthetic, making it a must-watch for fans of old-Hollywood rom-coms with bite. Whether you're drawn to its comedic timing, its nostalgic allure, or the sheer audacity of its premise, this 80-minute gem promises laughs, romance, and a few unforgettable lessons about the unpredictability of the heart.
