Professor Beware! An Epic Saga Of Academic Intrigue And Whimsical Romance In 1938 Hollywood

1938 was a year ripe with cinematic innovation, and nestled amongst the noirish thrillers and sweeping musicals emerged a gem of unexpected charm: “Professor Beware!”. This delightful film, directed by Elliott Nugent, weaves together academic intrigue and whimsical romance in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. While often overlooked in discussions of classic cinema, “Professor Beware!” deserves recognition for its sharp wit, endearing characters, and surprisingly progressive themes.

At the heart of the story lies Professor Theodore H. Barrington, a renowned but somewhat eccentric archaeologist played with delightful gusto by the incomparable Warner Baxter. Barrington is preparing for a pivotal lecture on ancient Egyptian artifacts when his world is upended by the arrival of a vivacious young woman named Susan Lane, portrayed by the effervescent Evelyn Ankers.

Susan, an aspiring journalist, arrives at Barrington’s doorstep hoping to land a scoop. She believes that Barrington’s latest discovery, a seemingly innocuous amulet, holds a secret that could rewrite history. Barrington is initially dismissive of her claims but finds himself drawn to Susan’s intelligence and determination. As they delve deeper into the amulet’s mysteries, their initial professional curiosity blossoms into an unlikely romance.

Adding spice to the mix are Barrington’s quirky colleagues: the perpetually flustered Professor Clement (played by the inimitable Franklin Pangborn), whose nervous stammer and penchant for mishaps provide comic relief; and the ambitious and somewhat scheming Dean Eldridge (a wonderfully nuanced performance by George Zucco), who sees the amulet as a potential ticket to academic stardom.

“Professor Beware!” is not just a light-hearted romantic comedy; it subtly tackles themes of ambition, truth, and the ethics of historical interpretation. Barrington’s struggle with Susan over the amulet’s true meaning highlights the clash between academic rigor and popular sensationalism. The film doesn’t shy away from posing challenging questions: What is the responsibility of scholars when faced with potentially groundbreaking discoveries?

The production of “Professor Beware!” was a relatively modest affair for its time. Shot on sound stages and location in California, the film’s budget didn’t allow for extravagant set pieces or elaborate costumes. However, director Elliott Nugent skillfully used clever camera angles and lighting techniques to create an atmosphere of both academic grandeur and intimate charm. The film’s score by William Axt was equally noteworthy, seamlessly blending comedic themes with moments of suspense and romance.

While “Professor Beware!” didn’t achieve the same level of box office success as some of its contemporaries, it has earned a dedicated following among classic film enthusiasts who appreciate its witty dialogue, engaging performances, and timeless themes. It remains a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, proving that even within the confines of a relatively modest production, captivating cinema can be born.