Movie Reviewed: Divorcee (1930), starring Norma Shearer
Norma Shearer shines like a star in this pre-code film of 1930
This is one of the early pre-code films that test the nerves of Hays office that would later police the morality depicted in Hollywood films. Jerry (Norma Shearer) and Ted (Chester Morris) are happily married couple until their anniversary, when Jerry discovers that Ted is unfaithful to her. When confronted he dismisses it as "it doesn't mean a thing." In an hurtful mood, she responds with her own one night stand. One of the prominent features of this film is that not only discusses very openly the double standards in judging with regards to morality but Shearer offers an outstanding performance as a married woman who is hurt and angry. Rightfully so, the Academy honored her with an award in the best actress category.
The movie has a bit of history, when MGM was seriously considering Joan Crawford for the role but Shearer placed a bid on it. But her own husband and MGM executive Irving Thalberg thought she is not glamorous for the role, but after seeing her publicity shots made with photographer George Hurrell, he agreed to cast her in the movie. This caused a serious rift with Joan Crawford who was very interested in this project. The story is based on the novel Ex-Wife by Ursula Parrott, which was directed by Robert Z. Leonard
No comments:
Post a Comment