One Third of a Nation (1939)

Flames engulf a dilapidated tenement, leaving young Joey Rogers injured in their destructive wake. Peter Cortlant, a wealthy passerby with a heart as expansive as his fortune, scoops up the boy and his enchanting older sister, Mary, rushing them to the hospital. He willingly foots the medical bill for this impoverished family, a mere drop in his ocean of wealth. A shocking revelation awaits Peter as he discovers that this tenement, a death trap disguised as a dwelling, is part of his own extensive real estate empire. Guilt-ridden and with the image of the fire-scarred tenement branded on his conscience, Peter's burgeoning affection for Mary steers him towards a daring decision. He resolves to demolish his decrepit tenements, replacing them with affordable, humane housing. But this noble plan sends shockwaves through his elite family, who view it as a threat to their opulence. They conspire to sabotage Peter's mission, setting the stage for a clash between wealth and conscience, between greed and humanity. Will Peter withstand his family's machinations and transform his firetrap holdings into safe havens? Watch 'One Third of a Nation' to find out. This heart-stirring tale is a stark reminder of the responsibility that comes with wealth, and the struggle between personal gain and the greater good.

One Third of a Nation is a drama movie featuring Sylvia Sidney and directed by Dudley Murphy.

One Third of a Nation is currently streaming on TCM.