All That Money Can Buy (1941)

Set in the rustic landscapes of 1840 New Hampshire, our tale revolves around Jabez Stone, a good-natured farmer grappling with the harsh realities of a simple and laborious life. Living with his devoted wife Mary and his steadfast mother, Jabez is a portrait of pure perseverance in the face of relentless misfortune. In a moment of despair, he rashly wishes to trade his soul for a better life, summoning the devil himself, cunningly disguised as the suave Mr. Scratch. In exchange for Jabez's soul, Mr. Scratch proposes a pact of seven prosperous years. As Jabez signs the sinister contract, his life takes a dramatic upturn. His crops mysteriously survive a disastrous hailstorm, he finds himself in a position to lend money to neighbors, and joyous news of Mary's pregnancy adds to the family's newfound happiness. However, the devil's snare tightens when the ravishing Belle enters the scene. Brought into the Stone household as a maid, Belle quickly ensnares Jabez, unbeknownst to him that she is another one of Mr. Scratch's malevolent pawns. Under the beautiful Belle's influence, Jabez starts to show a more sinister side. As the seven-year pact nears its end, Mr. Scratch returns, eager to claim the farmer's soul. In a wicked twist, he offers an extension in exchange for the soul of Jabez's newborn son, Daniel. With his back against the wall, Jabez finds an unlikely ally in the form of his son's godfather, the respected orator Daniel Webster, who challenges Mr. Scratch to a trial. "All That Money Can Buy" is a riveting tale of desperation, deceit, and redemption. As the fate of Jabez and his family hangs in the balance, viewers are left to wonder: will the eloquence of a common man's hero be enough to outwit the devil?

All That Money Can Buy is a drama movie featuring Edward Arnold.

All That Money Can Buy is currently streaming on Criterion Channel.

It is also possible to buy All That Money Can Buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV and Vudu.