Playing Around (1930)
A sparkling pre-Code comedy-drama about a restless New York girl, a dull beau, and a dashing playboy who changes everything.
Playing Around - Movie Information
- Original Title: Playing Around
- Release Year: 1930
- Directed by: Mervyn LeRoy
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Comedy, Drama, Music, Romance
- Age Rating (US): NR
- Runtime: 1h 6m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): January 19, 1930 (United States - NR), August 2, 1931 (Spain)
- Alternative Titles: A Bela e a Fera (BR), Piernas triunfadoras (ES), Vertigine del lusso (IT)
- Production Companies: First National Pictures
- Production Countries: United States of America
Playing Around - Plot
New York girl has a dull boyfriend and seems destined for a dull marriage when she meets a rich playboy who has money to burn and places to go.
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Playing Around - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Mervyn LeRoy
Main Cast
- Alice White
- Chester Morris
- William Bakewell
- Richard Carlyle
- Marion Byron
- Maurice Black
- Lionel Belmore
- Shep Camp
- Ann Brody
- Nellie V. Nichols
Writers
- Harvey F. Thew
- Viña Delmar
- Adele Comandini
Playing Around - FAQs
What is Playing Around (1930) about?
Playing Around follows Sheba Miller, a lively New York girl stuck with a dull boyfriend and a predictable future — until a charming, free-spending playboy sweeps into her life. The film is a breezy pre-Code comedy-drama that blends romance, music, and a touch of gangster intrigue.
Is Playing Around a pre-Code Hollywood film?
Yes, Playing Around is a classic pre-Code Hollywood picture. Released in January 1930, it predates the strict enforcement of the Hays Code, which means it carries the era's characteristic frankness — flirtatious heroines, morally ambiguous men, and storylines that wouldn't have passed censors just a few years later.
Who stars in Playing Around (1930)?
Alice White leads the cast as the spirited Sheba Miller, with Chester Morris playing the suave playboy Nickey Solomon. William Bakewell appears as the dependable but uninspiring Jack. The supporting cast includes Marion Byron, Maurice Black, and Lionel Belmore.
Where can I watch Playing Around (1930)?
You can find streaming and viewing options for Playing Around on JustWatch, which lists all available platforms in your region. Availability may vary depending on your location, so it's worth checking for the most current options.
Who directed Playing Around and what else did he make?
Playing Around was directed by Mervyn LeRoy, who went on to become one of Hollywood's most celebrated filmmakers. He later helmed classics like Little Caesar (1931), I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang (1932), and Quo Vadis (1951), cementing his reputation across both drama and epic cinema.
What role did Alice White play in the film?
Alice White plays Sheba Miller, a vivacious young New York woman working as a stenographer. Sheba is restless, fun-loving, and drawn to excitement — making her the perfect pre-Code heroine caught between the safe choice and the thrilling one.
What are some films similar to Playing Around?
If you enjoy Playing Around, you might also like other pre-Code gems such as She Done Him Wrong (1933), Lady Killer (1933), Ladies They Talk About (1933), and Employees' Entrance (1933). For a broader classic Hollywood feel, A Free Soul (1931) and Platinum Blonde (1931) are also worth exploring.
Does Playing Around have any notable uncredited cast members?
Eagle-eyed viewers will spot a very young George 'Gabby' Hayes in an uncredited role as a railroad ticket-seller. Long before he became a beloved Western sidekick, Hayes was picking up small parts in early talkies like this one — a fun bit of Hollywood history hiding in plain sight.
More About Playing Around
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