Four Jacks and a Jill (1942): cast, story & where to watch

1942 · Film · ★ 4.5

Four Jacks and a Jill poster

Released in 1942, Four Jacks and a Jill is a comedy, romance and music film directed by Jack Hively, running about 68 minutes. “BLONDE BLITZ blasts the blues out of four howling hepcats!” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. Karanina "Nina" Novak, is befriended by Nifty, the leader of a four-piece orchestra, and in return, secures an engagement for them at the Little Aregal Cafe, with herself as the vocalist, by pretending she once knew the King or Aregal back in the old country. Steve shows up pretending to be the King of Aregal, and complicates the growing romance between Nina and Nifty. When Steve runs off with Opa, the real King of Aregal (also Steve) appears and complicates things again.

Who’s in it. Four Jacks and a Jill stars Ray Bolger as Nifty Sullivan, a Jack, Anne Shirley as Karanina 'Nina' Novak, the Jill, June Havoc as Opal and Desi Arnaz as Steve Sarto / King Stephan VIII of Aregal, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 4.5/10, Four Jacks and a Jill has proved divisive with audiences.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Four Jacks and a Jill page.

If you liked it. Fans of Four Jacks and a Jill tend to enjoy Forrest Gump, Parasite, Life Is Beautiful and Fight Club.

Frequently asked

Where can I watch Four Jacks and a Jill (1942)?
Streaming, rental and purchase options for Four Jacks and a Jill change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
Is Four Jacks and a Jill worth watching?
Four Jacks and a Jill holds an audience score of 4.5 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy comedy, romance and music. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
Who stars in Four Jacks and a Jill?
Four Jacks and a Jill stars Ray Bolger, Anne Shirley, June Havoc, Desi Arnaz and Jack Durant.
When was Four Jacks and a Jill released?
Four Jacks and a Jill was released in 1942, with a runtime of about 68 minutes.