Wow, is this a terrific old film. I've enjoyed it so much that I've seen it several times and it really has withstood the test of time.
The film is made up of many short films all linked together with an overarching plot. Each segment has its own director and the film is absolutely chock full of talent--making it one of the most star-studded films of the era.
The film begins in the mansion of a sick old multimillionaire. As he's lying there supposedly about to die, the house if full of sycophantic relatives all hoping to get a piece of the pie when he dies. However, the old codger will have none of it and gets the idea of giving away his fortune to total strangers--giving each a check for $1,000,000.
Some of the segments are ironic or sad (such as the guy on death row) but most are humorous. My favorites (and they all are good) include W.C. Fields and his wife as they deal with "road hogs", Charles Lawton in a terrifically understated short as well as Charlie Ruggles as the put upon man working in a china shop. However, THE best one is the last one that involves an old folks home where fun and excitement are strictly forbidden.
This film nearly earns a 10 due to exceptional writing, direction and cast. It's a joy to watch from start to finish and is a film that deserves to be seen again.
The film is made up of many short films all linked together with an overarching plot. Each segment has its own director and the film is absolutely chock full of talent--making it one of the most star-studded films of the era.
The film begins in the mansion of a sick old multimillionaire. As he's lying there supposedly about to die, the house if full of sycophantic relatives all hoping to get a piece of the pie when he dies. However, the old codger will have none of it and gets the idea of giving away his fortune to total strangers--giving each a check for $1,000,000.
Some of the segments are ironic or sad (such as the guy on death row) but most are humorous. My favorites (and they all are good) include W.C. Fields and his wife as they deal with "road hogs", Charles Lawton in a terrifically understated short as well as Charlie Ruggles as the put upon man working in a china shop. However, THE best one is the last one that involves an old folks home where fun and excitement are strictly forbidden.
This film nearly earns a 10 due to exceptional writing, direction and cast. It's a joy to watch from start to finish and is a film that deserves to be seen again.