The Housekeeper's Daughter (1939) | Directed by Hal Roach

The Housekeeper's Daughter is a comedy crime film directed by Hal Roach. The story revolves around Hilda, the beautiful but naïve daughter of a housekeeper, who unwittingly becomes involved in a murder mystery when she moves to New York City with her mother. As Hilda navigates the big city, she finds herself caught between a gang of criminals and a group of bumbling reporters, all trying to solve a high-profile murder case. With a mix of romance, slapstick comedy, and crime-solving, the film is a lighthearted and humorous take on the classic murder mystery genre.

The film is noted for its comedic timing, quirky characters, and lively pace, blending romance, crime, and farce into an entertaining package.

Cast:
Joan Bennett as Hilda – The innocent and attractive daughter of a housekeeper, who becomes entangled in a murder case and captures the attention of multiple suitors.
Adolphe Menjou as Vincent – A wisecracking newspaper reporter who tries to solve the murder while wooing Hilda.
John Hubbard as Jimmie – A naive young man who also has feelings for Hilda, adding to the romantic entanglements.
William Gargan as Ed O’Malley – Another reporter involved in the investigation and trying to outwit his competition.
George E. Stone as Moroni – A small-time criminal who plays a part in the unfolding murder mystery.
Victor Mature as Johnny – A gangster whose actions lead to trouble for Hilda and those around her.

Director:
Hal Roach – Known for his work in comedies, particularly with the *Our Gang* series, Roach brings his talent for slapstick and humorous situations to *The Housekeeper’s Daughter*. His direction gives the film its fast-paced comedic energy, blending crime and romance with witty dialogue and physical humor.

Public Reaction:
The Housekeeper's Daughter was well-received for its humor and lighthearted tone. Audiences enjoyed Joan Bennett’s charming portrayal of Hilda, and the film's mix of crime-solving and romantic comedy elements made it an entertaining watch. The quirky characters, particularly the bumbling reporters and the inept criminals, provided plenty of laughs.

Critics praised the film's energetic pacing and sharp dialogue, with Adolphe Menjou’s performance as the fast-talking reporter Vincent receiving special mention for his comedic timing. While not a major hit, *The Housekeeper's Daughter* found success as a feel-good comedy, appealing to audiences looking for a fun and breezy film during the late 1930s.