Matching the Universal horror classic Dracula (1931) starring Bela Lugosi against non-genre films of 1931 and turning perceived weaknesses into strengths.
Smart Money (1931) Starring Edward G. Robinson and James Cagney
A deep look at Smart Money (1931) starring Edward G. Robinson with James Cagney. Includes detailed original biographical sections about co-stars Noel Francis and Evalyn Knapp.
Laughing Sinners (1931) With Joan Crawford, Neil Hamilton, Clark Gable
Laughing Sinners (1931) allows Joan Crawford to dance twice, stars her with Neil Hamilton, tries to give Clark Gable a break,and sees Guy Kibbee reprise his breakthrough Broadway role on screen.
The Criminal Code (1931) Starring Walter Huston with Boris Karloff
A spoiler-free look at Howard Hawks’ The Criminal Code starring Walter Huston and providing Boris Karloff with his most important role to date. With a special focus on Phillips Holmes.
First Impressions: Arrowsmith (1931) with Ronald Colman and Helen Hayes
Brief first impressions of Arrowsmith (1931) written shortly after a first viewing. Starring Ronald Colman and Helen Hayes with Myrna Loy.
Mary Astor Stars in Smart Woman (1931); Screen Husband Robert Ames Dies Soon After Release
RKO’s 1931 Smart Woman starring Mary Astor. A look at the film as well as leading man Robert Ames who died within two months of Smart Woman’s release.
The Tip-Off (1931) with Eddie Quillan, Ginger Rogers and Turkey Mike Donlin
A pre-Code release from RKO Pathe, The Tip-Off (1931) features Ginger Rogers in an early role but most of the fun comes from its fresh-faced star Eddie Quillan.
A Free Soul (1931) starring Norma Shearer and Lionel Barrymore
Norma Shearer stars in A Free Soul with Lionel Barrymore and Clark Gable. A brief review of the film accompanied by some glimpses of movie collectibles.