Watch Blessed Event

Blessed Event, released in 1932, is a fast-paced romantic comedy that focuses on the life of Alvin Roberts, a Broadway gossip columnist played by Lee Tracy. The film's title is a play on words, as it refers to both the birth of Alvin's illegitimate child and one of the most anticipated events in his profession - an exclusive story. Directed by Roy Del Ruth and produced by Warner Bros., Blessed Event features an all-star cast including Mary Brian, Dick Powell, and Allen Jenkins.

The story begins as Alvin Roberts, known for his scandalous and often fabricated stories, is summoned to court to reveal his sources of information or face jail time. Despite the pressure, Alvin refuses to betray his sources, much to the disappointment of the judge and the delight of his readers.

Alvin's affair with his secretary, Gladys Price, played by Mary Brian, is also revealed, leading to her resignation and his eventual marriage proposal. However, it becomes clear that Alvin is not cut out for commitment when he begins an affair with a young actress named Daphne Divine, played by Isabel Jewell.

As the story unfolds, Alvin's actions become increasingly desperate and erratic, leading to the revelation of his illegitimate child and a series of betrayals that threaten to destroy his career and personal life. Along the way, he enlists the help of his loyal friend, Stew Smith, played by Allen Jenkins, who provides a comedic foil to Alvin's outrageous behavior.

Throughout the film, the viewer is treated to a glimpse of life in New York City during the Depression era, with scenes of bustling streets and crowded theaters. The characters are all sharply dressed and impeccably groomed, providing a stark contrast to the poverty that many Americans were experiencing at the time.

Blessed Event is notable for its snappy dialogue and witty one-liners, with Lee Tracy delivering many of the film's most memorable lines with aplomb. In one scene, he tells a rival reporter, "I'm gonna smash your nose so far over to the side, you'll be able to smell your own ear."

The film also features several musical numbers, including performances by Dick Powell, who plays a struggling songwriter named Bunny Harmon. Powell's smooth voice and boyish charm make him a standout in the film, and he would go on to become one of the biggest stars of the 1930s and 1940s.

Overall, Blessed Event is an entertaining and lighthearted romp that provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of early 20th century journalism and show business. With its snappy dialogue and memorable characters, it is a true classic of the era and a must-see for fans of vintage cinema.

Blessed Event is a 1932 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 20 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0.