Never Say Die (1939 film)

Never Say Die is a 1939 American comedy film directed by Elliott Nugent, starring Martha Raye and Bob Hope. The film is a screwball comedy centered around a man mistakenly diagnosed with a terminal illness, which leads to a series of increasingly absurd and humorous situations.

Plot Synopsis:

Bob Hope plays John Kidley, a wealthy hypochondriac who visits a doctor in Switzerland for a checkup. Due to a mix-up involving a foreign patient with a rare disease, Kidley is informed he only has a few weeks to live. Devastated by the news, he decides to make the most of his remaining time. He becomes entangled with a socialite named Mickey (Martha Raye), who is pursued by several suitors. Mistakenly believing he is a fearless adventurer due to his supposed impending death, Mickey becomes fascinated by Kidley. Through a series of comedic mishaps and misunderstandings involving mistaken identities, kidnapping plots, and a royal family, Kidley and Mickey's relationship blossoms amidst the chaos. Eventually, the medical error is discovered, and Kidley learns he is not dying.

Cast:

• Bob Hope as John Kidley
• Martha Raye as Mickey
• Andy Devine as Clarence
• Gale Sondergaard as Dr. Schmidt
• Alan Mowbray as Prince Smirnoff
• Sig Ruman as Jumbo

Production:

The film was produced by Paramount Pictures and featured the comedic talents of Hope and Raye. It is known for its fast-paced humor and farcical situations.

Reception:

Never Say Die received generally positive reviews upon its release, with critics praising the performances of Hope and Raye and the film's comedic timing.

Significance:

The film is notable as one of Bob Hope's earlier starring roles and showcases his comedic abilities. It is also considered a classic example of screwball comedy from the late 1930s.