Gildersleeve's Bad Day (1943)

Second in RKO's short-lived Great Gildersleeve series based on the popular radio show. This time Gildersleeve is a juror in the trial of a bank robber. Through no fault of his own, Gildersleeve comes under suspicion of taking a bribe. Harold Peary is very enjoyable as the pompous Gildersleeve. His objecting to the prosecuting attorney during the trial is a hoot. Pretty Nancy Gates appears to have aged five years since the last film (it's actually been less than one). This is her last appearance in the series. It's also the last appearance of Jane Darwell's Aunt Emma. Lillian Randolph returns as Birdie the maid. She's always fun. A very nice supporting cast in this one, including Charles Arnt, Douglas Fowley, Alan Carney, and Grant Withers. Richard LeGrand is a treat as drug store owner Mr. Peavy, a role LeGrand also played on the radio program. A funny entry in the series. It moves quickly and barely clocks in at an hour. A nice time-passer on a lazy afternoon.