The Dark Horse

The story

The Progressive Party convention is deadlocked for governor, so both sides nominate the dark horse Zachary Hicks. Kay Russell suggests they hire Hal Blake as campaign manager; but first they have to get him out of jail for not paying alimony. Blake organizes the office and coaches Hicks to answer every question by pausing and then saying, "Well yes, but then again no." Blake will sell Hicks as dumb but honest. Russell refuses to marry Blake, while Joe keeps people away from Blake's office. Blake teaches Hicks a speech by Lincoln. At the debate when the conservative candidate Underwood recites the same speech, Blake exposes him as a plagiarist. Hicks is presented for photo opportunities and gives his yes-and-no answer to any question, including whether he expects to win.

Cast & crew

Bette DavisKay Russell

Warren WilliamHal Samson Blake

Guy KibbeeZachary Hicks

Vivienne OsborneHal's Ex-Wife Maybelle Blake

Frank McHughJoe

Sam HardyMr. Black

Harry HolmanMr. Jones

Charles SellonMr. Green

Robert Emmett O'ConnorSheriff

Berton ChurchillWilliam A. Underwood

Robert WarwickMr. Clark

Louise BeaversKay's Maid Levinnia