Miss Grant Takes Richmond 1949
"She was never so insulted in all her life...and it was wonderful!"
In this 1949 screwball comedy directed by Lloyd Bacon, Lucille Ball stars as Ellen Grant, a well-meaning but somewhat clueless secretary who stumbles into an unexpected adventure when she joins a shady real estate operation.
Director: Lloyd Bacon
Cast
Lucille Ball
Ellen Grant
William Holden
Dick Richmond
Janis Carter
Peggy Donato
James Gleason
Timothy Gleason
Gloria Henry
Helen White
Frank McHugh
Kilcoyne
George Cleveland
Judge Grant
Stephen Dunne
Ralph Winton
Wanda Perry
Ruth (uncredited)
Roy Roberts
Roberts - Construction Foreman (uncredited)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Miss Grant Takes Richmond (1949) about?
A kind-hearted secretary, Ellen Grant, joins what she thinks is a legitimate real estate business, only to uncover its true purpose as a bookie's front. When she learns friends may lose their homes, she unwittingly guides her boss toward an unexpected act of community good—all while navigating a series of hilarious misunderstandings.
Who directed Miss Grant Takes Richmond?
The film was directed by Lloyd Bacon, a well-regarded filmmaker known for his work in classic Hollywood comedies and musicals.
Who stars in Miss Grant Takes Richmond?
The movie features Lucille Ball in the lead role, alongside William Holden, Janis Carter, and James Gleason as the core cast members.
Is Miss Grant Takes Richmond (1949) worth watching?
While it isn't as widely remembered as some of Lucille Ball's later works, this 1949 comedy offers charming performances and lighthearted fun that still holds up today. Fans of vintage screwball comedies will find plenty to enjoy in its clever plot and nostalgic appeal.
How long is Miss Grant Takes Richmond?
The film has a runtime of 87 minutes.
About Miss Grant Takes Richmond (1949) — A 1949 Comedy Classic with Lucille Ball
In this 1949 screwball comedy directed by Lloyd Bacon, Lucille Ball stars as Ellen Grant, a well-meaning but somewhat clueless secretary who stumbles into an unexpected adventure when she joins a shady real estate operation. Unbeknownst to her, the front business is merely a cover for a bookie's illegal betting parlor, and her boss's true intentions remain hidden in plain sight. When Ellen discovers that some of her friends are at risk of losing their homes, she unwittingly pushes her oblivious employer into a noble (if accidental) act of community development—sparking a chain reaction of comedic misunderstandings along the way. The film blends lighthearted humor with themes of kindness and good fortune, all wrapped in the golden-age charm of post-war America.
With its witty dialogue and lovable cast, *Miss Grant Takes Richmond (1949)* delivers classic comedy gold, showcasing the talents of Lucille Ball at her most endearingly naive. The story balances playful deception with heartwarming sincerity, making it a delightful showcase of how even the most unlikely heroes can make a difference. Perfect for fans of vintage comedies, this film is a masterclass in turning chaos into charm.
