She Couldnt Take It

Plot

The film tells the story of the wealthy family Van Dyke: a frustrated patriarch Dan (Walter Connolly); his self-centered wife (Billie Burke); and his spoiled children Tony (James Blakeley) and Carol (Joan Bennett). They have constant run-ins for outrageous behavior.

Dan Van Dyke is sent to prison for tax evasion. His cellmate is bootlegger and fellow convicted tax evader Ricardi. The two men become friends and when Van Dyke dies from a poor heart, he puts Ricardi in charge of his interests.

Cast

Production

Raft and Blondell were loaned to Columbia by Paramount to make the film.

The film was originally known as Rich Man's Daughter. It was B.P. Schulberg's first film in a six picture deal he had with Columbia Pictures.

Filming started 16 July 1935.

Reception

The New York Times said the film "has a clinical interest as an example of the confused resentment against the idle rich which Hollywood has been displaying lately" in which the opening scenes "offer considerable promise for a bright-faced comedy of society foibles" but which went downhill once Walter Connolly's character died.

The Los Angeles Times called it "George Raft's best picture" with an "inventive scenario" and "unexpected twists".

After making the film, Tay Garnett went on an around the world cruise.