The Devil and Miss Jones 1941
"For folks who haven't laughed since 1929!"
In 1941, audiences got a delightful mix of wit, romance, and social satire with *The Devil and Miss Jones*, a sparkling comedy directed by Sam Wood.
Director: Sam Wood
Cast
Charles Coburn
John P. Merrick/Thomas Higgins
Jean Arthur
Mary Jones
Robert Cummings
Joe O'Brien
Edmund Gwenn
Hooper
Spring Byington
Elizabeth Ellis
S.Z. Sakall
George (Merrick's Butler)
William Demarest
First Detective
Walter Kingsford
Mr. Allison (General Manager)
Montagu Love
Harrison
Richard Carle
Oliver
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *The Devil and Miss Jones* (1941) about?
This 1941 comedy follows John P. Merrick, the world's richest man, who disguises himself as a shoe-store clerk to uncover labor unrest at his own department store. When he clashes with the fiery Mary Jones (Jean Arthur) and falls for her charms, Merrick discovers that anonymity has its limits—and maybe his employees aren't the villains he thought.
Who directed *The Devil and Miss Jones*?
The film was directed by Sam Wood, known for his knack for blending humor and social commentary in classics like *A Night at the Opera*.
Who stars in *The Devil and Miss Jones*?
The cast features the legendary Charles Coburn as John P. Merrick, Jean Arthur in a standout role as Mary Jones, Robert Cummings as the romantic lead, and Edmund Gwenn with scene-stealing support.
Is *The Devil and Miss Jones* (1941) worth watching?
With its sharp script, charming performances, and a runtime under two hours, this comedy is a hidden gem for fans of 1940s screwball fare. While it lacks an IMDb rating, its blend of romance, rebellion, and wit makes it a delightful time capsule of pre-war Hollywood charm.
How long is *The Devil and Miss Jones*?
The runtime of *The Devil and Miss Jones* is 92 minutes, making it a perfect bite-sized comedic escape.
About The Devil and Miss Jones (1941) — A Millionaire's Mischief and a Clerk's Charms
In 1941, audiences got a delightful mix of wit, romance, and social satire with *The Devil and Miss Jones*, a sparkling comedy directed by Sam Wood. At its heart is Jean Arthur as the sharp-tongued Mary Jones, a shoe-store clerk caught in the crossfire of labor tensions at Neeley's Department Store. When the store's mysterious owner, John P. Merrick (played with mischievous charm by Charles Coburn), disguises himself as a salesman to uncover the chaos firsthand, the stage is set for hilarious and heartfelt confrontations. Coburn's Merrick is a man of immense wealth who hides in plain sight, only to stumble into the chaos he's inadvertently caused, while Robert Cummings adds a dash of romantic tension as the charming stock boy who steals Mary's heart. The film blends screwball humor with a touch of rebellion, capturing the pre-war optimism of a world rediscovering laughter after the Great Depression.
Sam Wood's direction infuses the story with a breezy energy, balancing sharp dialogue with warm character moments that make the department store feel like a microcosm of society. Themes of class, identity, and connection unfold naturally as Merrick learns the value of empathy over control, all while navigating the tangled web of his own anonymity. With a runtime of just 92 minutes, *The Devil and Miss Jones* is a brisk, engaging outing that proves sometimes the most unlikely heroes wear aprons instead of crowns.
