More twists in this clever script than a high-top corkscrew. So who's going to win the battle of wits- the hardened old coots who run the bank, or the faithfully honest bank teller Fields (Niven) who hasn't had a raise in 12 years despite all his hard work! Now he wants to get married (Lord) but needs a raise to afford it, even though it's pre-inflationary 1902 and pennies will buy you a meal. But, heck, his snooty employers can't even get his name right, let alone, give him a needed raise. Still, those honchos are gonna be sorry because under Fields' amiable exterior is one tricky guy. But then these haughty guys aren't successful bankers for nothing. So who's gonna win the battle of a raise or not a raise. The unpredictable maneuverings are realistic and clever.
Niven's perfect in the part, smiling all the time he plots. Actually, the story's dramatic potential is treated in a lighter style perfect for the charming actor. All in all, it's an unusual storyline that remains unpredictable throughout, and stands as a worthy entry for an outstanding series.
(In passing- note that 1902 precedes the FDIC law passed during the volatile 1930's that federally insured bank deposits in order to prevent a depositor run on failing banks. Here, the possibility of a bank run is used as one of Fields' maneuvers to pressure his bosses.)
Niven's perfect in the part, smiling all the time he plots. Actually, the story's dramatic potential is treated in a lighter style perfect for the charming actor. All in all, it's an unusual storyline that remains unpredictable throughout, and stands as a worthy entry for an outstanding series.
(In passing- note that 1902 precedes the FDIC law passed during the volatile 1930's that federally insured bank deposits in order to prevent a depositor run on failing banks. Here, the possibility of a bank run is used as one of Fields' maneuvers to pressure his bosses.)