I had wanted to see this movie for years after hearing it was one of Jerry Lewis' best films, but for the longest time I couldn't find it anywhere. But I finally found a video store that stocked it, so I got it in my hands at last. And after watching it, I can safely report that its reputation is deserved. Sure, it's not a perfect movie - for one thing, Lewis is too old to be playing someone in his 20s. But Lewis' performance makes up for it, making his character amusingly goofy, but not TOO much so that he remains pretty sympathetic and not annoying. The script and direction are good, not just with Lewis but with the supporting characters, who do get a good amount of comic meat to work with. There isn't much plot, but the laughs do come in on a regular basis so you won't mind very much about that. The movie is breezy fun right from the start to the bizarre (but very funny) climatic sequence when Lewis is on the run for his life. This may not be Lewis' best film, but it's not very far behind, and would make a good introduction to anyone not familiar with him. Now someone convince Olive Films to get the DVD rights to Lewis' "Don't Give Up The Ship", which is just as funny, maybe even more so!

When the French deliver accolades regarding the genius of Jerry Lewis, this is, no doubt, one of the flicks they refer to.IT'$ ONLY MONEY provides the viewer with a perfect blend of Dir. Frank Tashlin's deft touch with a comedic script and the harnessing of star Jerry Lewis who, for this movie, walks a fine laugh-filled tightrope all the way with nary a mishap.Jerry has referred to Tashlin as his "mentor" and probably for that reason, the comedian has restrained himself from his usual on screen excesses. The result is unbridled humor from the star with special emphasis on featured player Jesse White who is a perfect foil to Jerry's man-child character.Eye candy is provided by the lovely Joan O'Brien who portrays Jerry's girl. Uh! Oh! Opposites do attract,especially in the movies.IT'$ ONLY MONEY pays off with interest.

In this offering, Jerry was a stupid television repairman who is an heir to a fortune that an unscrupulous attorney wants for himself. Many attempts are made to insure that Jerry does not live to get the inheritance. Of course, they all fail. The action was so predictable that I considered the whole show to be very dull - just so much more slapstick Jerry.

Jerry Lewis has undoubted talent as a slapstick comedian. Unfortunately he also has a massive ego and a rather unpleasant personality which make most of his movies (especially the ones without Dean Martin) almost impossible for me to watch. In this one director Frank Tashlin seems to have established firm control, doesn't let Lewis hog the camera but makes the most of his acrobatic comedy. This, supplemented by an expert supporting cast, Zachary Scott as the villain, Jesse White as the private eye and Mae Questel as the dotty aunt, along with some understated but well done Noir type photography make this mystery spoof watchable and funny.