The Lemon Drop Kid is a 1951 American comedy film based on the short story of the same name by Damon Runyon, starring Bob Hope and Marilyn Maxwell.

Although Sidney Lanfield is credited as the director, Frank Tashlin reportedly was hired, uncredited, to finish the film.

[2] The story had previously been adapted as a 1934 film starring Lee Tracy, with actress Ann Sheridan in a bit part.

[4] The Kid touts across a beautiful woman intending to bet $2,000 on a horse named Iron Bar.

As he leaves Charlie's establishment, the Kid notices a street corner Santa Claus and his kettle.

He is recognized by a passing policeman, and the Kid is convicted of panhandling and sentenced to ten days in jail when he cannot pay the fine.

After Brainey bails him out, he sets about making his scam legitimate by finding a charity to represent and a city license.

The Kid remembers that Nellie Thursday, a kindly neighborhood resident, has been denied entry to a retirement home because of her jailed husband's criminal past.

After a few days of stewing in self-pity (and realizing it is Christmas Eve), the Kid is surprised to meet Nellie, who has escaped.

The Kid assures the judge who sentenced him earlier that he will focus his attention on the home, which he will make a reality.