The Devil Is a Sissy 1936
"Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer's Greatest Human Drama"
Dive into the heart of 1930s Manhattan with *The Devil Is a Sissy (1936)*, a poignant comedy-drama directed by W.S. Van Dyke that explores class divides and the universal quest for belonging.
Director: W.S. Van Dyke
Cast
Freddie Bartholomew
Claude Pierce
Jackie Cooper
'Buck' Murphy
Mickey Rooney
'Gig' Stevens
Ian Hunter
Jay Pierce
Peggy Conklin
Rose Hawley
Katharine Alexander
Hilda Pierce
Gene Lockhart
Mr. Jim Murphy
Kathleen Lockhart
Mrs. Murphy
Grant Mitchell
Paul Krumpp
George Davis
Charlie - the Diner Owner (uncredited)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Devil Is a Sissy (1936) about?
This 1936 comedy-drama follows a well-bred English boy who leaves his privileged life behind to attend a tough Manhattan school, where he must navigate clashing social circles and prove his worth. It's a tale of identity, resilience, and the unexpected friendships that form in the most unlikely places.
Who directed The Devil Is a Sissy?
The film was directed by W.S. Van Dyke, a master of blending humor and drama in classic Hollywood films.
Who stars in The Devil Is a Sissy?
The main cast includes Freddie Bartholomew as the lead, alongside Jackie Cooper, Mickey Rooney, Ian Hunter, and Peggy Conklin.
Is The Devil Is a Sissy (1936) worth watching?
Though unrated on IMDb, this vintage comedy-drama shines with strong performances and a relatable story of class and identity. Fans of Jackie Cooper and Mickey Rooney's early work or vintage MGM films will likely find it worthwhile, though modern viewers may need to suspend some dated tropes.
How long is The Devil Is a Sissy?
The film has a runtime of 92 minutes.
About The Devil Is a Sissy (1936) — Classic Comedy-Drama of Class and Coming of Age
Dive into the heart of 1930s Manhattan with *The Devil Is a Sissy (1936)*, a poignant comedy-drama directed by W.S. Van Dyke that explores class divides and the universal quest for belonging. Freddie Bartholomew stars as a refined young English boy navigating the gritty streets of lower Manhattan, where he enrolls in a local school to escape his sheltered upbringing. His journey unfolds against a backdrop of clashing social norms, offering a sharp yet heartfelt look at identity, acceptance, and the blurred lines between dignity and desperation. With a stellar supporting cast that includes Jackie Cooper, Mickey Rooney, and Ian Hunter, the film balances wit and warmth, capturing the innocence and mischief of youth while probing deeper themes of perception and authenticity.
Atmospherically rich and brimming with the charm of classic Hollywood, *The Devil Is a Sissy (1936)* blends humor and drama to tell a story that resonates as much today as it did nearly a century ago. The film's title hints at its playful yet profound exploration of masculinity and social cliques, where even the most well-mannered outsider must confront the raw, unfiltered world around them. Whether you're a fan of vintage cinema or simply drawn to stories of outsiders finding their place, this Van Dyke-directed gem delivers a timeless message wrapped in vintage Hollywood polish.
