The Baroness and the Butler 1938 DVD - William Powell / Helen Westley

Johann Porok, a third-generation butler serving Count Albert Sandor, the Prime Minister of Hungary, is unexpectedly elected to the Hungarian parliament, representing the opposition social progressive party. Despite his political success, Johann insists on remaining a servant as well. Count Sandor is pleased with the arrangement, as Johann is the perfect butler and the Count does not want to train a new one. However, Sandor's daughter, Baroness Katrina Marissey, views Johann as a traitor and treats him coldly. In parliament, Johann boldly criticizes the Prime Minister—his own employer—for continually promising reforms to the poor but never delivering, always blaming “difficulties.” Although Katrina is bewildered, the Count is not offended and maintains his friendship with Johann. Johann soon rises to be the leader of his party, which further infuriates Katrina. During one of Johann’s passionate speeches in parliament, Katrina throws her purse at him, resulting in a commotion. Later, a vote of confidence leads to the Count’s resignation as Prime Minister. Although disappointed to lose Johann as his butler due to his parliamentary obligations, the two part on good terms. At a ball hosted by Katrina, her ambitious husband invites Johann. When left alone, Katrina warms to Johann, who admits his love for her and his hope for self-improvement—despite believing his cause to be hopeless. Katrina reciprocates his feelings, but they are interrupted by her husband and Major Andros, another suitor. In a private conversation, Katrina’s husband offers to divorce her if Johann nominates him as Minister of Commerce. Against Katrina’s will, Johann complies. When the deal is made public, Katrina denounces it, forcing her husband to leave parliament in disgrace. The film concludes with Johann Porok being served breakfast in bed by Katrina, now revealed as Mrs. Porok. Cast: - William Powell as Johann Porok - Annabella as Baroness Katrina Marissey - Helen Westley as Countess Sandor - Henry Stephenson as Count Albert Sandor - Joseph Schildkraut as Baron Georg Marissey - J. Edward Bromberg as Zorda - Nigel Bruce as Major Andros - Lynn Bari as Klari, a maid attracted to Johann - Maurice Cass as Radio Announcer - Ivan F. Simpson as Count Dormo (as Ivan Simpson) - Alphonse Ethier as President - Claire Du Brey as Martha Runtime: 80 minutes.