Romance in Manhattan 1935

Karel Novak, played by Francis Lederer, is a naive Czech immigrant who arrives in New York City with just $58, under the mistaken belief that only $50 was needed to enter the United States. However, upon arrival, immigration officials inform him that he must have $200 to stay or face deportation. In his desperation, Novak jumps from a deportation ship and is rescued by dock workers, although in the process, he loses his entire money stash. Lost and confused, he wanders the streets, eventually stumbling into a theatre where he helps himself to food left behind by chorus girls. This act of kindness brings him into contact with Sylvia Dennis, played by Ginger Rogers, a young woman involved in the theatrical scene.

Sylvia, questioning Novak’s intentions and kindness, learns that he refuses to accept money but is eager to find work. She advises him to visit her apartment, where her brother may help him find a job. At Sylvia’s place, other women suggest placing Sylvia’s young brother, Frank (played by Jimmy Butler), in an institution because he has missed several days of school. Sylvia, caring deeply for her brother, refuses to let him go, and instead, she and Novak strike a deal: Novak will work during the day so Frank can attend school, and Frank will take over evening shifts. Sylvia provides Novak with blankets to sleep on the roof, sharing her experiences of struggling during the Great Depression.

As Novak, Sylvia, and Frank go out to eat, they are approached by a dock worker who recognizes Novak. Fearful of being labeled an illegal alien, Novak denies his circumstances, claiming he was rescued from the river, and refuses to claim his $58. This deception costs him his money. The dock worker, wanting to return Novak’s money, offers to do so but is rebuffed when Novak denies knowing him. Novak then consults with Officer Murphy, played by J. Farrell MacDonald, asking if someone can get in trouble for helping an illegal immigrant unknowingly.

Novak soon finds work as a cab driver, proudly showing Sylvia his taxi. She informs him that her show has closed, and she is now unemployed, which leaves Novak feeling responsible for her and Frank. During a cabbie strike, Novak helps Sylvia with chores like washing, and their relationship deepens—she hopes to marry a wealthy man, but Novak, feeling a strong bond with her, kisses her sincerely. Their intimate moment is interrupted when two women from the state authorities inquire if Novak is living at Sylvia’s apartment, leading to a series of legal challenges.

Sylvia faces court action to prevent her from being separated from her brother. Despite claiming to be 22, the judge, played by Oscar Apfel, determines she is only 19 and rules that Sylvia must surrender Frank to an institution until she is married. Heartbroken, Sylvia packs her brother’s belongings, and Novak walks out, overwhelmed by the circumstances.

Desperate to stay with Sylvia and Frank, Novak seeks legal advice on how to get married. Officer Murphy informs him that he only needs $2 and his naturalization papers if available. Novak then approaches attorney Halsey J. Pander, played by Arthur Hohl, who asks for $50 and promises to fast-track Novak’s citizenship. Despite facing hostility and even physical assault from colleagues who see him as a scab, Novak continues working as a taxi driver.

Meanwhile, Sylvia, Frank, and Novak devise a plan to run away to avoid separation, leading Novak to propose marriage to Sylvia. She initially declines but later changes her mind. When a man arrives to take Frank away, Novak, realizing that he is in the country illegally, confesses his status but remains hopeful to become a citizen. Things take a turn when Pander betrays Novak by turning him in for bounty. However, Murphy intervenes, working behind the scenes to setup the necessary legal procedures.

The story culminates in a series of comic and chaotic events at the police station, as Novak, Sylvia, and Murphy work together to secure a marriage license, conduct a quick wedding ceremony, and complete the legal paperwork, including vaccinations and physical exams. A minister is hired hurriedly, and the wedding takes place amidst interruptions. At last, Novak and Sylvia are joyfully married, symbolizing hope, perseverance, and love overcoming adversity in the face of immigration laws and societal challenges.