Film vs Film
Select two cult films to compare side by side.
Toby's Bow Synopsis
When the wild Bohemian life style of Greenwich Village has destroyed successful novelist Tom Blake's ability to write, his publisher refuses to advance him more money until he forsakes that environment. A friend of Tom's arranges for him to become the boarder of her Southern friend Eugenia, a fledgling writer inspired by Tom's first novel, so he can find the quiet he needs for work. Using an assumed name, Tom is introduced to Eugenia's proud, aristocratic grandmother as a guest, since she would never condescend to taking in boarders. Toby, the Black servant, defers to Tom, but does not give him the elaborate, courtly bow he reserves for family members. After Tom helps turn Eugenia's poor manuscript into a novel by virtually rewriting it himself, the book's success allows Eugenia to pay the estate's mortgage, but, when she learns Tom's identity, she furiously declares that she wants no charity. After experiencing Greenwich Village however, Eugenia returns, forgives Tom, and they marry. Tom then receives his long-awaited bow from Toby.
Skinner's Dress Suit Synopsis
Skinner is afraid to strike his employer for a raise for fear he will be discharged. Mrs. Skinner scoffs at his fears, however, and finally induces him to demand an increase. Her humble spouse gets the proverbial "cold feet" at the final moment; so to "cover up" before his wife, he fibs a little and tells her he got the raise, taking the money from his private bank account. She forthwith makes him purchase a dress suit and "spruce up." Although it almost wipes Skinner's bank account out, he buys the clothes. Skinner is frantic; he sees the wolf at the door. But, by virtue of his dress suit and good appearance, he gets acquainted with some wealthy people and is enabled to put over a big business deal for his firm. Rushing into his company's office with the order, he demands a raise and a partnership in the firm. He gets both.
"Toby's Bow" holds a slight edge in general audience appreciation, but "Skinner's Dress Suit" offers its own unique cult appeal.
Suggested Watch:
Toby's Bow