Watch Louisiana Purchase

The movie Louisiana Purchase from 1941 is a classic comedy musical film that stars Bob Hope, Vera Zorina, and Victor Moore. Directed by Irving Cummings, the film centers around the political intrigue and romance surrounding the Louisiana Purchase of 1803, which saw the United States acquire a vast territory from France. Bob Hope stars as Jim Taylor, a bumbling New York City businessman who ends up being chosen by President Thomas Jefferson (Lionel Atwill) to negotiate the Louisiana Purchase. Taylor is not a natural fit for the job, as he knows nothing about politics or diplomacy, but he sees an opportunity to get in on the ground floor of a lucrative business deal.

Along with his loyal sidekick, Simon (Victor Moore), Taylor travels to France to meet with Napoleon Bonaparte (Sig Ruman) and his lovely niece, Mademoiselle De La Tour (Vera Zorina). Along the way, he finds himself in a number of hilarious situations as he tries to deal with the French bureaucracy, navigate the treacherous political landscape, and win the heart of the beautiful debutante.

As they negotiate the terms of the Louisiana Purchase, Taylor and his team encounter a number of obstacles, including scheming diplomats, corrupt officials, and even an assassination attempt. The tension and humor build as each side tries to gain the upper hand, while Taylor struggles to keep his wits about him in the face of mounting pressure.

Throughout the film, Bob Hope demonstrates his legendary comedic timing and irreverent style, delivering one-liners and sight gags with effortless ease. His chemistry with Vera Zorina is also a highlight, as she brings a touch of elegance and grace to her role as the independent-minded Frenchwoman who captures Taylor's heart.

In addition to the catchy musical numbers and witty dialogue, Louisiana Purchase also features some impressive set pieces and costumes that transport viewers back in time to the 19th century. From the opulent palace of the French court to the dusty streets of New York City, the film is a visual feast that captures the spirit of its era.

Overall, Louisiana Purchase is a charming and enjoyable comedy that combines history, romance, and slapstick humor into a delightful package. Bob Hope and his co-stars deliver memorable performances that will leave audiences laughing and humming the catchy songs long after the credits roll. Whether you're a fan of classic Hollywood musicals or just in the mood for a lighthearted romp, this film is sure to entertain.

Louisiana Purchase is a 1941 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 38 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.1.