Millions (also known as The King of Cloves) is a 1936 British comedy film directed by Leslie Hiscott and starring Gordon Harker, Richard Hearne and Frank Pettingell. It was made at Elstree Studios. The film portrays the cut-throat rivalry between two financiers.
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Plot
Wealthy businessman and financier Otto Forbes has cut off his son Jimmy's allowance. Jimmy's valet Parsons comes up with a scheme to restore Jimmy to his father's good graces. The elder Forbes loves music, so Parsons suggests Jimmy "compose" a beautiful piece. Since Jimmy has no musical talent or training, Parsons tries to pass off works, such as a Beethoven sonata, as Jimmy's, but Forbes is not fooled, leaving Jimmy in deep financial trouble.
Forbes and bitter business rival Sir Charles Rimmer are running against each for Parliament. Jimmy meets and becomes enamoured with Rimmer's daughter, Jane.
Cast
Gordon Harker as Otto Forbes
Frank Pettingell as Sir Charles Rimmer
Richard Hearne as Jimmy Forbes
Stuart Robertson as the conductor
Anthony Holles as Billy Todd
Jack Hobbs as Parsons
Ernest Sefton as Naseby
Alexander Field as the brokers' man
Queenie Leonard as Lilian
Jane Carr as Jane Rimmer
Reception
The Monthly Film Bulletin wrote: "The supporting cast are adequate, and Ellen Pollock gives a good performance as Otto's secretary. The direction is untidy and the photography is often poor. The musical items are badly recorded and this spoils the Victorian duet by Ellen Pollock and Gordon Harker. But it is Gordon Harker's film and he is worth every foot of it."
Picture Show wrote: "Thoroughly entertaining comedy which not only has clever characterisations but a good story. Gordon Harker is a sheer joy as the self-made man, with a glorious accent; Frank Pettingell also scores as his rival, and it is the team work of these two that dominates the entire film. Nevertheless, excellent work comes from the supporting cast. It is well directed, set and photographed, and amply repays a visit."