sinful-2 When i started seeing this movie I did not really have any idea what it was. But I was met with a scene with an old man playing music and a squirrel dancing. As I may be a bit crazy and love fantasy and adventure so I could see this movie go in interesting ways.But just as getting ready to follow the squirrel it took back seat in the movie to something that was a bland love story and I think maybe comedy. (not sure as I never laughed. But they did look like it should be funny)So would I recommend this movie? Yes if the 10 minutes the squirrel was in the movie to the whole movie. Otherwise no. After the 10 first minutes nothing really happens with the squirrel. It is only there a few short scenes. In my opinion none of persons in the main body was very likable or interesting.

Paularoc A down on their luck family, the Amendolas, (Jimmie Durante, Queenie Smith, and Terry Moore) have been out of work for months since their "human pyramid" vaudeville act is no longer popular. They've no money but manage to rent, without prepaying a month's rent, a small, ramshackle, one room dwelling from Frank Dingle (Frank Orth) who is a tight, cynical man. The previous occupant, Joe Mahoney (Jimmie Conlin), is also a destitute vaudevillian who cant't get any bookings for his trained squirrel act (Rupery - Himself the Squirrel). Mahoney vacates the premises without paying back rent and has to leave Rupert in a near by park. It's Christmas time and although Mr. Amendolas maintains his optimism and high spirits, the future looks grim. But then Rupert returns to the premises and the fun begins "when money is sent from heaven." There is a budding romance, a change of heart by a life long curmudgeon, an underlying faith in the power and importance of generosity and a happy ending for all - even Rupert. A fantasy world indeed but a charming and uplifting one. Best of all is Jimmie Durante - as ever, highly entertaining and engaging. I particularly enjoy his idiosyncratic singing style, in this case, his rendition of "Jingle Bells." For its day, the animation is also good. This movie is a winner and one the whole family can enjoy.

wes-connors It's Christmastime in New York City. Unemployed vaudevillian Jimmy Durante (as Louie Amendola) rents a ground-floor dwelling for his family on credit, with help from pretty daughter Terry Moore (as Rosalinda). Ms. Moore has charmed landlord's son Tom Drake (as Peter "Pete" Dingle) into forgoing a deposit, and beginning a romance. Meanwhile, a dancing squirrel named "Rupert" has also taken up residence in the building. The little critter (one of producer George "Puppetoon" Pal's creations) takes money stashed by tightwad building owner Frank Orth upstairs and throws it down on Mr. Durante's praying wife (Queenie Smith) downstairs. Naturally, she thinks the money is sent from heaven. Cute.***** The Great Rupert (1/8/50) Irving Pichel ~ Jimmy Durante, Terry Moore, Tom Drake, Frank Orth

JoeKarlosi Originally known as THE GREAT RUPERT, this is a charming tale about a talented squirrel (that would be Rupert) who lives in the attic of a down and out family of struggling vaudevillians, and who accidentally helps them gain wealth and prosperity during the Christmas season. The vigorous Jimmy Durante is a lot of fun to watch as the well-meaning father who sings, and he's got a couple of silly "so bad they're funny" lines that made me laugh, though it's too bad he wasn't given more. Terry Moore (MIGHTY JOE YOUNG) is his young daughter who falls for Tom Drake (MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS). This is a somewhat charming, if not great, family film to watch for the holidays. Rupert the Squirrel is brought to life via George Pal's animation. **1/2 out of ****