Valente Como Trinta

"The Tenderfoot" is from the days just before the Hollywood Production Code became strictly enforced in 1932. Primarily family fare, a few words and themes are slipped in that would become taboo within a few months and for decades to come. None of these should preclude a family audience today.

Examples include a cowboy, who upon arriving in NYC, spots a group of men in cowboy suits who turn out to be obviously gay chorus boys. Later in the film, he malaprops "ejaculation," instead of "salutations!" Yes, there's plenty of innuendo--much of it sophisticated and/or subtle, but nothing that isn't heard (ahem, recycled) on U.S. network primetime/family television today.

Ginger Rogers appears as Brown's feisty love interest, but don't expect her to sing, dance or wear ostrich feathers. Still, she's charming and more interesting here than in her Oscar-winning role in 1940's "Kitty Foyle."

Joe E. Brown, who is probably best remembered today for his turn as Osgood Fielding III in "Some Like It Hot," plays the cowboy broadly. Still, he's much more palatable than in other frequently seen performances (reference Flute in 1935's "A Midsummer Night's Dream).

In addition to the historical interest, the film is an enjoyable and well produced piece of fluff. The short 70-minute run time seems even shorter to me. Hope you enjoy it!