The Farmer Takes a Wife (1935 film)

The Farmer Takes a Wife is a 1935 American romantic comedy film directed by Victor Fleming. It stars Janet Gaynor and Henry Fonda in his film debut. The screenplay was written by Edwin Burke, based on the 1934 Broadway play of the same name by Frank B. Elser and Marc Connelly, which in turn was based on the 1929 novel The Farmer Takes a Wife by Walter Edmonds.

The film tells the story of Molly Larkins, a canal boat cook in 1830s upstate New York, and Dan Harrow, a quiet farmer who prefers to work the land rather than become involved in the rough and tumble life surrounding the Erie Canal. Molly dreams of settling down and finding happiness, but is drawn to the excitement and wealth offered by the canal boatmen. Dan is torn between his desire to stay on his farm and his growing affection for Molly.

The film is notable for its portrayal of life on the Erie Canal during its heyday, and for Fonda's understated and charming performance. It was a critical and commercial success, helping to launch Fonda's career in Hollywood. It is generally considered a pre-Code film, though released just as the Production Code was being more rigorously enforced.