Movie Reviewed: The Fast Workers (1933), starring Mae Clarke and John Gilbert

The last film of the “fast worker” John Gilbert

In this 1933 pre-code film, John Gilbert and Robert Armstrong play romantic rivals for the character played by actress Mae Clarke. The film was based on a play by John W. McDermott.

John Gilbert’s tenure as a matinée idol at the studios had descended into the dusk due to a series of misfortunes of his life. He was known for his ill-temper and frequently clashed with studio head Louis B. Mayer over many issues, including a physical attack on him during the alleged double-wedding of Greta Garbo and John Gilbert; and director King Vidor and actress Eleanor Boardman. Mayer vowed to end his career, and thus the long and painful decline of Gilbert comes to an end in this film as his contract with MGM also ends. In spite of all his misfortunes, the film is still interesting and enjoyable to watch.