So You Want to Be a V.P. 1955
Ever dreamed of climbing the corporate ladder? *So You Want to Be a V.P. (1955)* delivers a sharp, satirical take on ambition and middle-management absurdity through the lens of George O'Hanlon's hapless everyman, Joe McDoakes. Directed by Richard L.
Director: Richard L. Bare
Cast







Frequently Asked Questions
What is So You Want to Be a V.P. (1955) about?
This 1955 comedy short follows Joe McDoakes, a mild-mannered employee who becomes the seventh vice-president of his company—despite no clear purpose for his role. His journey highlights the absurdity of corporate promotions, where titles often outnumber actual responsibility. It's a snappy satire of workplace ambition gone slightly awry.
Who directed So You Want to Be a V.P.?
So You Want to Be a V.P. was directed by Richard L. Bare, a filmmaker known for his work in television and short films during the 1950s.
Who stars in So You Want to Be a V.P.?
The film stars George O'Hanlon as Joe McDoakes, with Ralph Brooks, Steve Carruthers, Joi Lansing, and Harold Miller rounding out the cast in supporting roles.
Is So You Want to Be a V.P. (1955) worth watching?
With its sharp satire of corporate culture and George O'Hanlon's affable performance, *So You Want to Be a V.P.* is a charming relic of 1950s comedy. While it's a short film, its humor and themes remain relatable, making it a fun watch for fans of classic workplace comedies.
How long is So You Want to Be a V.P.?
So You Want to Be a V.P. runs for 10 minutes.
About So You Want to Be a V.P. (1955) — Classic 10-Minute Corporate Comedy Explained
Ever dreamed of climbing the corporate ladder? *So You Want to Be a V.P. (1955)* delivers a sharp, satirical take on ambition and middle-management absurdity through the lens of George O'Hanlon's hapless everyman, Joe McDoakes. Directed by Richard L. Bare, this ten-minute comedy short skewers the bureaucracy of promotions by following McDoakes, the seventh vice-president in a company that only promotes from within—even when it makes no sense. With its snappy pacing and wry humor, the film captures the frustration of climbing a corporate ladder that seems to go nowhere, blending workplace satire with the whimsical charm of 1950s short films. Joi Lansing and other familiar faces of the era round out the cast, adding to the film's nostalgic appeal.
Set in a world where titles outnumber meaningful responsibilities, *So You Want to Be a V.P.* paints a picture of corporate life that feels both timeless and distinctly mid-century. The atmosphere is lighthearted but pointed, as Joe's quest for recognition collides with the absurdity of corporate hierarchy. Whether you're a fan of classic comedies or simply curious about vintage workplace satire, this George O'Hanlon short offers a quick, witty escape into the golden age of Hollywood's bite-sized humor.