Ball of Fire

A group of eight scholars has dedicated themselves to creating a comprehensive encyclopedia of human knowledge. Their intense devotion to this project has seen years of hard work, with one member confidently proclaiming they are only three years away from completion.

Miss Totten, the sole female figure involved, inherited a substantial fund from her late father, who had been frustrated over not receiving recognition in the Encyclopedia Britannica for inventing the electric toaster. However, with the funds depleted, she is hesitant to invest her own money into the project.

A garbage man approaches the professors asking for assistance with a quiz contest. This prompts Professor Bertram Potts to realize just how outdated his knowledge of modern slang has become, catalyzing a change in his academic approach.

To refresh his understanding of slang, Potts ventures into a vibrant nightclub where he becomes entranced by the performance of Gene Krupa's band. The lively atmosphere captivates him, especially through the enchanting vocals of Katherine 'Sugarpuss' O'Shea.

After her performance, Sugarpuss finds herself pursued by the police, prompting her to seek shelter with Potts and the professors. Despite Potts’ concerns and Miss Bragg's strong objections, she manages to gain entry into their home.

As Sugarpuss spends more time with the scholars, they begin to form a bond. She introduces them to lively activities and even explains the meaning of certain slang terms, including the affectionate term 'yum yum', which draws Potts in closer.

Joe Lilac, Sugarpuss's mobster boyfriend, intends to marry her under the guise that it will prevent her from testifying against him. This revelation complicates Sugarpuss's relationship with Potts as her true intentions unfold.

Miss Bragg discovers Sugarpuss's true intentions and attempts to expel her, only to be knocked out by Sugarpuss. The group then plans to escape to New Jersey, but circumstances take a turn when their car breaks down.

After arriving at the motel, Joe and his henchmen reveal the marriage plan, which devastates Potts. Despite his heartbreak, he chooses to protect the professors and Sugarpuss when the police arrive, showcasing his loyalty over his own feelings.

Back in New York, Miss Totten arrives with her lawyer, threatening to shut down the encyclopedia project due to the negative publicity surrounding the events. Potts passionately defends the professors’ work, advocating for their right to continue.

As Sugarpuss weighs her options at the Justice of the Peace, she struggles between her potential marriage to Joe and her feelings for Potts. This moment forces her to consider the dangers her decisions pose to the academics she has come to care for.

To distract Joe's henchmen, the professors devise a clever plan involving humorous interrogations that ultimately confound their adversaries. Their team effort reveals the power of camaraderie and ingenuity in facing threats.

Just in time to save the day, the professors burst in at the Justice of the Peace to stop the wedding ceremony. Potts confronts Joe, challenging him to a fistfight despite initially faltering, but the situation shifts when the police intervene.

After the chaos settles and the villains are apprehended, Sugarpuss expresses doubt about whether she deserves Potts. He reassures her with a tender exchange, affirming their connection and sealing it with a kiss labeled 'yum yum.'