What Is Oh, God! You Devil About?
The premise of Oh, God! You Devil in 272 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In the sun‑splashed streets of 1980s Los Angeles, a modest yet hopeful songwriter named Bobby Shelton strives to turn his modest gigs into a lasting career. He lives with his loving wife, Roxanne, whose quiet support grounds his restless ambition. The film opens with a wistful echo from Bobby’s childhood: while he lay gravely ill, his father’s prayers summoned a kindly, baseball‑cap‑wearing figure who promised to keep an eye on the boy’s future. That promise lingers, giving the story a gentle sense of destiny that hovers just beyond the neon lights of the city.
The central conflict ignites when two celestial forces—God and the Devil—each decide to intervene in Bobby’s life, employing their wits and far‑cunning charm. God appears as a genial, down‑to‑earth elder, while the Devil adopts the slick persona of talent‑agent Harry O. Tophet, complete with cigar smoke and silver‑tongued offers. Their rivalry is played out with a breezy, comic cadence, turning the age‑old battle of good versus evil into a whimsical contest for a single mortal soul. The humor is warm and self‑aware, allowing each deity to riff on modern life while subtly probing the weight of fame and the allure of shortcuts.
Styled as a light‑hearted fantasy comedy, the film blends witty dialogue, vibrant musical set‑pieces, and a touch of 1960s nostalgia. George Burns’ dual performance adds a buoyant, almost paternal charm, making the divine dispute feel both intimate and hilariously absurd. As Bobby stands at the crossroads of his modest dreams and the glittering promise of stardom, the audience is invited to wonder how far one will go when the heavens themselves are watching—and wagering—on his choices.
What Happens in Oh, God! You Devil?
The complete story of Oh, God! You Devil, from the first scene to the last, in 730 words (about 3 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 6 cast member pages.
Spoilers ahead
In 1960 New York City, young Bobby Shelton is gravely ill with scarlet fever, prompting his father, John Doolittle, to pray fervently at his bedside. Outside their apartment, an elderly man who turns out to be God (George Burns), dressed casually in a baseball cap and gray sweatsuit, notes Bobby’s name and vows to keep an eye on him.
Fast forward 24 years to Los Angeles, California, where Bobby, now played by Ted Wass, struggles to make a name for himself as a singer-songwriter. His supportive wife, Roxanne Hart, works as a social worker but struggles to keep their spirits up. After facing another rejection from a record label, Bobby is ready to perform at a wedding for $500. Frustrated with his situation, he makes a desperate remark about selling his soul to the devil for success.
By some mysterious twist of fate, the Devil, who is also portrayed by George Burns as the cigar-smoking talent agent Harry O. Tophet, receives Bobby’s plea while driving back from Miami. Upon noticing that God had promised to watch over Bobby, the Devil takes it as an opportunity, declaring that he has priority if anyone calls for him.
During the wedding reception, Harry appears, handing Bobby his card and promising him gigs at prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall and Madison Square Garden. Bobby, taken in by Harry’s charm and the comedic chaos he creates among the guests, decides to hire this intriguing agent. He terminates his long-standing relationship with his original manager, Eugene Roche, and the ambitious Charlie Gray in favor of Harry, who pitches an astonish $3.5 million deal for the struggling artist.
As Bobby signs the contract, he is completely unaware that the name on the line is magically changed to that of the famous rock star Billy Wayne (Robert Desiderio), who has just weeks to live under Harry’s influence. Suddenly, everyone in the industry recognizes Bobby Shelton as the iconic Billy Wayne, while Bobby’s essence and memories start fading away. Meanwhile, the real Billy Wayne finds himself trapped in Bobby’s body, with no clue of who he once was.
When Bobby calls Roxanne Hart to share his exciting news, he realizes that a stranger is now living his life with his beloved wife. Overwhelmed by the realization that his deal was a pact with the Devil, Bobby grapples with the consequences during his first now-successful concert. He experiences the high life of a rock star, reveling in fame, private planes, and wild parties, yet continually feels a sense of loss for who he used to be.
Five months into his new life, Harry visits Bobby again and shares disheartening news that God has become bitter, rarely coming to Earth. Bobby, in a moment of shock, learns that his wife is pregnant, but is relieved that this child was conceived before his fateful contract. Conflicted, he desperately seeks to break free from the Devil’s grasp, only to find his pleas dismissed by Harry.
Bobby turns to religious leaders in search of guidance. Sadly, they view him as mentally unstable. One day, he encounters a sidewalk preacher who simply advises him to find God in the desert. Consequently, Bobby feels an urge to perform in Las Vegas, hoping to connect with a higher power. After a successful show at Caesars Palace, he asks to speak with the Lord, leading to a phone call where God reassures him but offers no immediate solution.
In a dark turn, as a last resort to escape the luxurious yet hollow life he never asked for, Bobby attempts suicide in his dressing room. Just as he is about to take his last breath, God and the Devil engage in a high-stakes poker game for Bobby’s soul. With the potential for an infinite number of souls at risk should God win, the Devil ultimately realizes the stakes are too high and folds, conceding Bobby’s freedom.
After this game, Bobby awakens, liberated from Billy Wayne’s celebrity status. God, donning a wise-cracking demeanor similar to Harry’s, reminds Bobby of the promise made during his childhood illness and sends him back to his wife. Unbeknownst to Wendy, who has been oblivious to the swap, she welcomes her husband home, sensing a profound change in him.
Five years later, Bobby is seen rushing to his sick daughter’s bedside, singing tenderly to her, and suddenly, he hears God’s voice reassuring him once more.
Oh, God! You Devil Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
14 key events in the order they happen, from “Bobby's Illness” to “New Beginnings”. 3 events name a place, across 3 locations.
- 1
Bobby's Illness
In 1960, a young Bobby Shelton falls gravely ill with scarlet fever in New York City. His worried father prays fervently at his bedside, while an elderly man, who is actually God, observes from outside, promising to keep an eye on Bobby's well-being.
When:1960 Where:New York City
- 2
Bobby's Transition
Fast forward 24 years, Bobby has grown into a struggling singer-songwriter in Los Angeles, California. Despite his efforts, Bobby faces repeated rejections from record labels while his loving wife tries to maintain their spirits.
When:1984 Where:Los Angeles, California
- 3
Desperate Plea
After yet another setback, Bobby expresses his frustration and jokingly mentions selling his soul to the devil for success. This casual remark inadvertently catches the attention of the Devil, who is depicted as the charming talent agent, Harry O. Tophet.
- 4
The Devil's Arrival
While driving back from Miami, the Devil learns of Bobby's plight and decides to seize the opportunity. He notes that God has promised to watch over Bobby, allowing him to claim Bobby's soul if the offer arises.
- 5
New Contract
At a wedding reception where Bobby is performing, Harry appears unexpectedly and presents Bobby with a business card. Captivated by Harry's charisma, Bobby chooses to hire him over his long-time manager, leading to a lucrative $3.5 million deal.
- 6
Transformation Begins
Bobby unknowingly signs a contract that magically alters his identity to that of a famous rock star, Billy Wayne. While Bobby’s essence begins to fade, he suddenly finds himself celebrated as Billy Wayne in the music industry.
- 7
Bobby's Disappearance
As Bobby revels in newfound fame, he realizes a stranger has taken over his life, including his relationship with his wife, Roxanne. Overwhelmed by the changes, Bobby grapples with the reality of his pact with the Devil.
- 8
A Shocking Revelation
After five months of living the glamorous rock star life, Bobby receives shocking news from Harry: God has become bitter and seldom visits Earth. This revelation leaves Bobby questioning his choices and seeking redemption.
- 9
Seeking Help
In desperation, Bobby turns to religious leaders for guidance but is dismissed as mentally unstable. A chance encounter with a sidewalk preacher leads Bobby to believe he might find God in the desert.
- 10
Las Vegas Performance
Bobby travels to Las Vegas, performing at Caesars Palace in hopes of connecting with a higher power. After a successful show, he manages to speak with God, who reassures him but provides no immediate solution to his plight.
Where:Las Vegas
Show the other 4 events of Oh, God! You Devil Hide the last 4 events
- 11
Despair and Reckoning
In a moment of utter despair, Bobby contemplates suicide in his dressing room, feeling trapped in his unwanted celebrity life. Just before taking the plunge, a cosmic poker game ensues between God and the Devil for Bobby's soul.
- 12
Bobby's Liberation
God and the Devil engage in a high-stakes game over Bobby's future. Realizing the stakes are far too high, the Devil folds, granting Bobby freedom from his pact and restoring his true self.
- 13
Return to Reality
Bobby awakens from his ordeal, free from the identity of Billy Wayne. God reminds Bobby of the promise made while he was ill, sending him back to Roxanne, who remains blissfully unaware of the supernatural events.
- 14
New Beginnings
Five years later, Bobby rushes to his sick daughter's side, singing to her tenderly. He hears God's voice once again, providing him with reassurance and reminding him of the life he fought so hard to reclaim.
Who Are the Main Characters in Oh, God! You Devil?
4 characters, among them Bobby Shelton, God and The Devil / Harry O. Tophet: who each one is and the part they play in the story. Every profile links to the actor’s page.
- BS
Bobby Shelton
Played by Ted Wass
Bobby is a struggling singer-songwriter who becomes a victim of his own ambition. Initially filled with hope, he seeks fame at any cost, leading to dire consequences. His character embodies the vulnerability of chasing dreams in a cutthroat industry, navigating moral dilemmas while yearning for personal redemption.
- 🎶 Musician
- 😔 Struggler
- 🚀 Ambitious
- G
God
Played by George Burns
Portrayed by George Burns, God takes a humorous and wise demeanor throughout the film. He is a comforting presence for Bobby, yet his character also embodies the complexities of divine intervention and free will. God’s interactions provide profound insights into faith and the journey toward self-discovery.
- 👴 Wise
- 😇 Divine
- 🌟 Protector
- TD
The Devil / Harry O. Tophet
Played by George Burns
Also played by George Burns, the Devil is charismatic yet deceitful, representing the alluring nature of temptation. His role as Bobby's agent showcases the seductive promise of instant success, while revealing the darker side of fame. His character serves as a catalyst for Bobby's existential crisis.
- 😈 Temptor
- 💼 Agent
- ✨ Charismatic
-
Roxanne Hart
Played by Roxanne Hart
Bobby's supportive wife, Roxanne, embodies strength and resilience, trying to maintain their family's spirit amid struggles. Her unconditional love serves as a grounding force for Bobby, raising the stakes of his decisions as she grapples with the changes in her husband's identity.
- ❤️ Supportive
- 👩⚕️ Social Worker
- 🌼 Resilient
Where and When Is Oh, God! You Devil Set?
Oh, God! You Devil is set in New York City, Los Angeles and Las Vegas (1960s, 1980s). Here is why the time and place matter to the story.
When
1960s, 1980s
The story spans from 1960 to the mid-1980s, illustrating a significant cultural evolution in America. The 1960s were marked by social upheaval and the beginning of the rock-and-roll era, while the 1980s saw the explosion of celebrity culture and the music industry. This time frame highlights the shifting values regarding fame, success, and personal identity.
Where
New York City, Los Angeles, Las Vegas
The movie takes place in the vibrant and bustling urban landscapes of New York City and Los Angeles. New York City is known for its iconic skyline and rich cultural scene, while Los Angeles serves as a hub for the entertainment industry. Las Vegas, a city known for its extravagant nightlife and entertainment shows, becomes a pivotal setting as Bobby seeks redemption and connection with spirituality.
- 🌆 Urban
- 🎉 Entertainment
What Are the Themes of Oh, God! You Devil?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Morality, Fame and Spirituality.
-
01
Morality
The film explores the intense struggle between good and evil, examining the implications of making morally questionable decisions for success. Bobby's pact with the Devil serves as a cautionary tale about the costs of ambition and the risk of losing one's true self. It raises questions about the nature of choice and the consequences that follow.
-
02
Fame
Fame plays a central role in Bobby's life as he transitions from obscurity to superstardom. The movie delves into the alluring yet hollow experience of celebrity, portraying the dichotomy between the glamorous facade of success and the deep personal sacrifices it entails. Bobby's journey reflects the often-painful pursuit of recognition and the ephemeral nature of public adoration.
-
03
Spirituality
Spirituality is intertwined throughout the narrative, as Bobby grapples with his faith and the search for God in his darkest moments. The film emphasizes the importance of believing in a higher power and the quest for forgiveness and redemption. Bobby's encounters with both God and the Devil highlight the complexity of spiritual belief and personal crises.
What Kind of Film Is Oh, God! You Devil?
Light in tone, with steady pacing and a straightforward story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Light
- Pacing
- Steady
- Story
- Straightforward
- Intensity
- Medium
- Ending
- Happy
A whimsical and comedic fantasy that playfully explores the cosmic battle for a man's soul, blending high-stakes spiritual conflict with human-scale humor and an ultimately reassuring, feel-good resolution.
- whimsical
- thought-provoking
- comical
- uplifting
- fantastical
- playful
- deal with the devil
- good versus evil
- identity crisis
- fame and fortune
Content notes: suicide attempt.
Quiz
How well do you remember Oh, God! You Devil? Test yourself on the story.
