A second look at pre-Code classic Three on a Match (1932) includes an appraisal of early Humphrey Bogart movies, contemporary reaction, and a checklist of stars. Plus Warren William.
Gentleman’s Fate (1931) Starring John Gilbert and Louis Wolheim as Unlikely Brothers
Gentleman’s Fate (1931) is an MGM gangster effort overshadowed by the relationship between the John Gilbert and Louis Wolheim characters. Directed by Mervyn LeRoy with good work from Anita Page as well.
Five Star Final (1931) Starring Edward G. Robinson
Mervyn LeRoy’s Five Star Final (1931) stars Edward G. Robinson as the managing editor of a trashy New York newspaper that resurrects a 20-year-old murder case for circulation. A Warner Bros.-First National production adapted from the play by Louis Weitzenkorn. Also starring Marian Marsh, H.B. Warner, Frances Starr, Boris Karloff and Aline MacMahon.
Lana Turner – They Won’t Forget
A look at Lana Turner’s small part in Mervyn LeRoy’s They Won’t Forget (1937). Illustrations include an advertisement and other early Turner news clippings.
Big City Blues (1932), Pre-Code Party in Depression-Era New York
Eric Linden finds fun, trouble and Joan Blondell in Depression-era New York in Warner Bros.’ Big City Blues (1932). Directed by Mervyn LeRoy with an unbilled supporting appearance by Humphrey Bogart along with several others.
Show Girl in Hollywood (1930) Starring Alice White as Dixie Dugan
Alice White stars as Dixie Dugan in First National’s SHOW GIRL IN HOLLYWOOD (1930), a behind the scenes movie musical depicting the Vitaphone process and including a stand out performance by former silent screen star Blanche Sweet.
The World Changes (1933) Starring the Many Faces of Paul Muni
Paul Muni stars in First National’s 1933 multigenerational film The World Changes. Also starring Mary Astor. Muni earns a fortune in the meat-packing industry but is led too far from his roots and watches his children stray even further from what he considers a good life.
Kay Francis and Ian Hunter in I Found Stella Parish (1935)
Kay Francis and Ian Hunter both do good work in Warner Brothers’ I Found Stella Parish (1935). I’m just wondering if I’m supposed to walk away liking either of their characters?
