
It's a Wise Child 1931
"Laff of a Lifetime"
When a tightly-knit, old-fashioned family suddenly suspects their grown daughter is expecting, the entire household spins into a whirlwind of mistaken identities, frantic denials, and slapstick misunderstandings in Robert Z.
Director: Robert Z. Leonard
Cast










Frequently Asked Questions
What is It's a Wise Child (1931) about?
A conservative family is thrown into a tizzy when they mistakenly believe their daughter is pregnant, sparking a cascade of comedic misunderstandings and family secrets. What unfolds is less about scandal and more about the hilarious lengths parents will go to protect their child—even when they're the ones causing the chaos.
Who directed It's a Wise Child?
Robert Z. Leonard, a veteran director known for blending lighthearted comedies with sharp social commentary, helmed this 1931 comedy gem.
Who stars in It's a Wise Child?
The film stars Marion Davies, Sidney Blackmer, James Gleason, Polly Moran, and Marie Prevost in leading roles that bring both charm and comedic fire to the story.
Is It's a Wise Child (1931) worth watching?
For fans of early talkies and classic screwball comedies, *It's a Wise Child* offers a delightful mix of wit, warmth, and vintage charm. While it may not boast a stellar IMDb rating, its energetic performances and playful take on family dynamics make it a nostalgic treat for classic film enthusiasts.
How long is It's a Wise Child?
The film runs for 83 minutes, or just under an hour and a half of non-stop laughter and family folly.
About It's a Wise Child (1931) — A Classic Comedy of Parental Panic and Unexpected Revelations
When a tightly-knit, old-fashioned family suddenly suspects their grown daughter is expecting, the entire household spins into a whirlwind of mistaken identities, frantic denials, and slapstick misunderstandings in Robert Z. Leonard's 1931 screwball comedy classic *It's a Wise Child*. Marion Davies anchors the chaotic household as the seemingly innocent daughter caught in the crossfire, while Sidney Blackmer and James Gleason bring sharp-edged wit as the overprotective patriarch and the ever-optimistic suitor. Wrapped in the playful chaos of the early talkie era, the film balances heartfelt family drama with rapid-fire gags, exploring themes of parental control, youthful rebellion, and the hilariously messy business of growing up.
Polly Moran's scene-stealing performance as the family's well-meaning but clueless housekeeper and Marie Prevost's role as the glamorous romantic interest add layers of warmth and humor, keeping the story buoyant despite its premise. Set against the backdrop of 1930s Hollywood, the movie crackles with the energetic spirit of pre-Code comedy, where social norms are bent just enough to let laughter—and a few embarrassing truths—shine through.