Checkers (1937 film)

Checkers is a 1937 American drama film directed by H. Bruce Humberstone and written by Robert Chapin, Karen DeWolf, Frank Fenton and Lynn Root. The film stars Jane Withers, Stuart Erwin, Una Merkel, Marvin Stephens, Andrew Tombes and June Carlson. The film was released on December 8, 1937, by 20th Century Fox.^[1][2][3]

Checkers
Theatrical release poster
Directed by	H. Bruce Humberstone
Screenplay by	Robert Chapin Karen DeWolf Frank Fenton Lynn Root
Story by	Frank Fenton Lynn Root
Produced by	John Stone
Starring	Jane Withers Stuart Erwin Una Merkel Marvin Stephens
Cinematography	Daniel B. Clark
Edited by	Jack Murray
Music by	Samuel Kaylin
Production company	20th Century Fox
Distributed by	20th Century Fox
Release date	December 8, 1937 (1937-12-08)
Running time	79 minutes
Country	United States
Language	English

Plot

The story centers around a young girl named Checkers, who becomes involved in helping to save a struggling farm through horse racing. When a prized racehorse suffers a serious leg injury that threatens to end its racing career, a skilled veterinarian is called upon to perform a delicate operation to repair the damage. The horse's ability to compete is crucial, as its owner faces financial ruin and the potential loss of his farm if the animal cannot return to the track.

As the veterinarian works to heal the horse, Checkers plays a pivotal role in caring for the animal and maintaining hope during the recovery process. The film builds tension around whether the horse will be able to compete in an upcoming major race that represents the farm owner's last chance to earn the money needed to save his property. The story combines elements of rural drama with themes of perseverance, community support, and the special bond between humans and animals.

The race becomes a climactic moment where everything hangs in the balance - not just the horse's return to form, but the future of the farm and the livelihood of those who depend on it.

Cast

• Jane Withers as Checkers
• Stuart Erwin as Edgar Connell
• Una Merkel as Mamie Appleby
• Marvin Stephens as Jimmy Somers
• Andrew Tombes as Tobias Somers
• June Carlson as Sarah Williams
• Minor Watson as Dr. Smith
• John Harrington as Mr. Green
• Spencer Charters as Zeb
• Francis Ford as Daniel Snodgrass