Joe and Ethel Turp Call on the President 1939
"Damon Runyan's Gay American Story!"
In the lighthearted 1939 comedy Joe and Ethel Turp Call on the President, newlyweds Joe and Ethel Turp swap their cozy domestic routines for a whirlwind trip to Washington when their beloved mailman is unjustly dismissed.
Director: Robert B. Sinclair
Cast
Ann Sothern
Ethel Turp
William Gargan
Joe Turp
Lewis Stone
The President
Walter Brennan
Jim
Marsha Hunt
Kitty Crusper
Tom Neal
Johnny Crusper
James Bush
Henry Crusper
Don Costello
Fred
Muriel Hutchison
Francine La Vaughn / Jennie
Jack Norton
Parker
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Joe and Ethel Turp Call on the President (1939) about?
This charming 1939 comedy follows newlyweds Joe and Ethel Turp as they embark on a cross-country quest to reinstate their beloved mailman after he's unfairly fired. Their journey culminates in a bold attempt to plead his case directly to the President, blending small-town grit with big-city politics.
Who directed Joe and Ethel Turp Call on the President?
Robert B. Sinclair directed this spirited comedy, bringing a keen eye for timing and character to the film's satirical take on bureaucracy.
Who stars in Joe and Ethel Turp Call on the President?
The film stars Ann Sothern and William Gargan as Joe and Ethel Turp, with standout performances from Lewis Stone, Walter Brennan, and Marsha Hunt rounding out the cast.
Is Joe and Ethel Turp Call on the President (1939) worth watching?
Fans of classic screwball comedies will find plenty to enjoy in this breezy, heartfelt film. With a runtime under 90 minutes and a cast packed with talent, it offers a winning mix of humor and charm that holds up beautifully despite its age.
How long is Joe and Ethel Turp Call on the President?
Joe and Ethel Turp Call on the President runs for 70 minutes.
About Joe and Ethel Turp Call on the President (1939) — Classic Comedy with Presidential Punch
In the lighthearted 1939 comedy Joe and Ethel Turp Call on the President, newlyweds Joe and Ethel Turp swap their cozy domestic routines for a whirlwind trip to Washington when their beloved mailman is unjustly dismissed. Their determination to seek justice leads them straight to the oval office, where their earnest plea collides with the nation's political machinery in a story that's equal parts heartfelt and hilarious. Directed by Robert B. Sinclair with a deft comic touch, this Damon Runyon-inspired tale blends small-town charm with the grand stage of high politics, creating a warm, satirical atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and timeless.
Ann Sothern and William Gargan shine as the spirited Turp duo, their chemistry driving the film's appeal. With supporting turns from Lewis Stone, Walter Brennan, and Marsha Hunt, the cast elevates a modest runtime into a breezy, engaging watch perfect for fans of classic screwball comedies. The film's themes of perseverance, fairness, and the power of the little guy resonate just as strongly today, wrapped in a package of wit and warmth that's hard to resist.
