The Allure
Rachel Crothers 1929 stage comedy made a talkative but entertaining movie a year later in 1930. Adapted by Frances Marion, and casting Norma Shearer and Marie Dressler in the lead, this story dwells on a very controversial story during pre-code era. To save her granddaughter (Sally Eilers) from the clutches of Norma’s ex-husband (Rod La-Rocque), society matron Dressler persuade Shearer to lure back her husband again. In the meantime, Norma Shearer leads the life of a merry woman socializing with men openly and freely.
The 1929 play by Rachel Crothers starring Tallulah Bankhead which had 128 performances was widely acclaimed. And the movie critics preferred Bankhead but Norma Shearer does not disappoint her fans with great performance for her allure and beauty. This brings my memory to another MGM great classic “The Women” made in 1939 in which she plays similar role with passion, exuberance and gaiety.
All ends well when her ex-husband begs for another chance. Brilliantly directed by Robert Leonard, the title of the movie has a material connections to the modern usage. The film was shot within a month due to Norma Shearer's pregnancy. Highly recommended.
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