The Girl Downstairs (1938)

In this heart-capturing tale set in 1938, Paul Wagner, a charming playboy with a lavish lifestyle, sets his heart on the captivating Rosalind Brown. However, her father, Mr. Brown, believes Paul's extravagant lifestyle makes him an unsuitable match for his daughter. Determined to see Rosalind, Paul ingeniously disguises himself as a chauffeur after a house-wide ban on him, with the only exception being the absent Katerina Linz. Katerina, a humble farm girl working temporarily as a scullery maid to replace her deceased cow, unwittingly becomes Paul's accomplice in his clandestine love pursuit. Paul and Katerina share a memorable day at a local fair, igniting an unexpected spark between them. The next day, a twist of fate leads Katerina to Paul's apartment with a letter from Rosalind. The ruse continues as Paul's womanizing friend Charlie is mistaken for the real Paul Wagner. A stolen kiss, a slap, and a well-meant termination later, Katerina, believing she's responsible for Paul’s misfortune, spends her hard-earned savings to buy him an old taxicab. Meanwhile, Paul, unbeknownst to Katerina, gains Mr. Brown's approval to marry Rosalind and attempts to reveal his true identity to the unsuspecting Katerina through a letter. However, illiterate Katerina perceives it as a love letter, leading to an emotional roller coaster of misunderstandings. The climax unfolds at an engagement party, where Katerina learns the harsh truth. A perplexed Paul is left questioning his feelings as Katerina packs her bags and leaves, leaving behind a captivating tale of love, deception, and unanticipated emotions. Will Paul follow his heart or bow to societal expectations? "The Girl Downstairs" is a timeless romantic drama that explores the complex tapestry of love and the lengths one might go to pursue it.

The Girl Downstairs is a comedy movie featuring Franchot Tone.

The Girl Downstairs is currently streaming on TCM.