Infernal Machine (1933): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 1933, Infernal Machine is a comedy film directed by Marcel Varnel, running about 65 minutes. “With one kiss he stole a rich man's fiancèe and rescued a ship from an explosion that never happened...what a man!!!” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. This pre-Code comedy-thriller centers on Robert Holden, a broke and discouraged veteran, who meets fellow American Elinor Green at a cafe in Paris. After their first encounter, Holden's attempt to return Green's thought-to-be stolen purse ends up rendering him a stowaway on board a ship bound for America. Also aboard is a collection of characters, including Green's banker fiancé, a famed scientist, and an opera singer. Romance begins to blossom between Holden and Green, just as a radiogram claims that an “infernal machine,” or bomb, is aboard the ship. Quickly each passenger accuses the others of planting the bomb until eventually Holden, jealous of Green's attention to her undeserving fiancé, falsely admits to being the culprit. In his role as assumed perpetrator, Holden tests the group further.

Who’s in it. Infernal Machine stars Chester Morris as Robert Holden, Genevieve Tobin as Elinor Green, Victor Jory as Alfred Doreen and Elizabeth Patterson as Elinor's Aunt, among others.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Infernal Machine page.

If you liked it. Fans of Infernal Machine tend to enjoy Forrest Gump, Parasite, Life Is Beautiful and Fight Club.