The Girl Said No (1930 film)
The Girl Said No is a 1930 American pre-Code comedy film directed by Sam Wood and starring William Haines, Leila Hyams, and Marie Dressler. It was produced and distributed by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM).
The film is a romantic comedy centered around Tom Ward (William Haines), a wealthy young man with a reputation for being a ladies' man, who finds himself genuinely falling for a working-class woman, Mary Howe (Leila Hyams). His attempts to woo her are initially met with resistance, reflected in the film's title. Marie Dressler provides comedic relief as Hettie, a loud and opinionated laundress who offers advice and commentary on the unfolding romance.
The Girl Said No is notable for being one of the last silent films released by MGM, albeit with synchronized music and sound effects. A talking sequence was also included, indicating the transition from silent to sound film production during this period. The film is generally regarded as a minor work in the careers of its stars and director. Its plot is fairly standard for the romantic comedies of the era, focusing on social class differences and the challenges of romance between individuals from different backgrounds. While not considered a major cinematic achievement, the film offers a glimpse into the popular entertainment of the early sound era.