
Powder My Back 1928
"Blamed as cradle-snatcher --she corrals Santa Claus."
Dive into the whimsical chaos of *Powder My Back* (1928), Roy Del Ruth's zany silent-era comedy where a fiery stage star turns the tables on a reform-minded mayor.
Director: Roy Del Ruth
Cast





Frequently Asked Questions
What is Powder My Back (1928) about?
This 1928 silent comedy follows Fritzi Foy, a fiery musical comedy star who exacts revenge on a reform mayor who shut down her show. Posing as an injured accident victim, she infiltrates his home with the help of her press agent, only to spark an unexpected romance with the mayor's son. The plot twists around deception, love, and the clash between authority and showbiz antics.
Who directed Powder My Back?
Roy Del Ruth, a prolific director known for his work in early sound comedies and musicals, helmed *Powder My Back*.
Who stars in Powder My Back?
The film features Irene Rich as Fritzi Foy, Audrey Ferris, George Beranger, Anders Randolf, and Carroll Nye in the lead roles.
Is Powder My Back (1928) worth watching?
While it hasn't earned a modern IMDb rating, *Powder My Back* is a delightful slice of silent-era comedy that stands out for its clever plotting and energetic performances. Its themes of rebellion and romance make it a charming watch for fans of early Hollywood farce, even if it's a bit of a time capsule.
How long is Powder My Back?
The runtime for *Powder My Back* is 70 minutes.
About Powder My Back (1928) — A Silent Comedy Classic Full of Screwball Mischief
Dive into the whimsical chaos of *Powder My Back* (1928), Roy Del Ruth's zany silent-era comedy where a fiery stage star turns the tables on a reform-minded mayor. Irene Rich shines as Fritzi Foy, the sassy lead of a scandalous musical comedy who, after being shut down by Mayor Rex Hale, devises a devilish scheme of revenge. Disguised as a fragile accident victim, she invades Hale's home, enlisting her press agent (George Beranger) as a bogus doctor to keep the ruse alive. What unfolds is a delightful web of deception, romance, and slapstick humor, as Hale's son Jack (Carroll Nye) falls for the cunning intruder—despite her being engaged to someone else. With its playful subversion of authority and classic screwball energy, this 70-minute romp is a time capsule of early Hollywood wit and charm.
Set against the backdrop of Prohibition-era America, *Powder My Back* blends sharp satire with the zesty spirit of showbiz antics. The film's title alone hints at its mischievous tone, while Roy Del Ruth's direction keeps the momentum rolling with snappy pacing and sharp visual gags. At its heart, the story explores themes of rebellion, first impressions, and the blurred lines between performance and real life—all wrapped up in the glamour of 1920s Hollywood. A must-see for fans of early comedies, it's a featherlight yet clever escapade that lingers like a perfectly timed punchline.