Reviews (92)

True classic, beautifully preserved and re-released.....
Despite the fact that this film raises issues that are not very potent today, it remains to be a timeless classic because of its sheer artistic value. This great artistic value is largely due to the brilliant idea (the idea of creating a play about Kathrene Hepburn [not literally, of course], for Kathrene Hepburn), the plot itself, and film's charming and witty script. Hepburn is the only and true star in this story, although I can appreciate Stewart and Grant in their roles. But truly, it would not have mattered much artistically, if different supporting cast was chosen. Apparently, it did matter to RKO commercially a great deal. Thank God for that, because Stewart, Grant, Hussey, and Howard all added something to the film. The result is a story with a "love...well, let's just say, more than a usual triangle", that revolves around one Philadelphia society girl and a few of her eccentric family members. The DVD has an outstanding sound and picture quality. Cute little menu and original theatrical trailer are also included. It is nice to know that this great film will stay with us for generations to come and enjoy it.

See it............ NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This is all I need to say:

Cary Grant Katharine Hepburn Jimmy Stewart GREAT PERFORMANCES ALL AROUND, ESPECIALLY FROM THE THREE AMAZING STARS AND RUTH HUSSET!

But I'll say more anyway.

Upper class lady Tracy Lord is about to be married to George Kittridge, general manager of Quaker State something or other (I haven't watched it for a month or so) after two years before divorcing CK Dexter Haven.

Spy Magazine big cheese Sindney Kidd sends Macauly Conner and Elizabeth Imbry to get an inside story on the wedding of Tracy Lord, and George Kittridge. They are to get inside via Tracy's ex husband Dexter, who decides to help for revenge against his ex-bride.

Hilarity ensues via needle sharp dialogue, carefully hidden gags, and terrific performances.

I haven't seen one movie by Cary Grant that I haven't liked; I have seen thrity-two. I Have only seen two Jimmy Stewart and Kate Hepburn that I didn't really enjoy a-piece, and I've seen about twenty or more of theirs.

And Cuckor's direction inspired many directors to choose alternative direction styles.

YES, BUY THIS ONE, YOU WON'T REGRET IT.
This is my absolute favorite performance by the great Katherine Hepburn. She is breathtaking and absolutely wonderful. Brilliant performances all across the board, an especially funny performance by James Stewart is just the icing on the cake. Cary Grant,one of my faves, also delivers a magnificent performance. Also worth mentioning is the very beautiful Ruth Hussey, whose potrayal of Liz is stunning. She was one of the most attractive actresses at the time, in my humble opinion. This movie is very funny and the sets and costumes are among the best Hollywood has ever offered. I highly recommend this as a must own.

Perfection!
So well written, so elegant! My favorite film.

The REAL High Society
Branded by Hollywood as "Box Office Poison" (usually the death blow to an actor's career), Katherine Hepburn put all of her eggs in this ONE basket, to prove she's still a force to be recconned with. Reprising her stage role, Kate secures the rights for the film version of "The Philadelphia Story". The trick worked. Katherine Hepburn was back as a big star on the Hollywood Sky.

Tracy Lord (Katherine Hepburn), a spoiled socialite scheduled to remarry when her first husband, C.K. Dexterhaven (Cary Grant) shows up as uninvited wedding guest. Add to the mix, Mike Connor (James Stewart) a reporter who is supposed to be covering the wedding for the tabloids but winds up falling for Tracy himself. The brief triangle has a predictable ending.

Less glamorous than the 1955 Technicolor Musical re-make "High Society" with Grace Kelly and Bing Crosby, this black & white Classic remains the superior production. Somewhat dated (definitely 1940s Movie Star Magazine material), this is still a groundbreaking romantic comedy. Ted Turner: Please keep your crayons away from this one!**** ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Enchanting Soap Opera From A Bygone Era
Although the 1935 version of THE DARK ANGEL was a remake of an earlier silent film, it too seems to have disappeared into obscurity--and what a shame! This movie will not appeal to fans of the current brand of Hollywood "love stories", where the hero and heroine (or same sex couples in some cases) slip easily into bed together after only just meeting, several car chases and shoot-outs ensue, and the plots remind you of the last Meg Ryan film you saw because they are all the same--and they are filmed in color. THE DARK ANGEL is from an entirely different era of film making: the glorious 1930s. A time when movies, particularly love stories, depended on a good script and good acting to keep the viewer watching, and if successful in both these areas, the viewer won't notice that the movie is in black and white. And what a wonderful job they did with this film! Although, like most films of the time, it may seem dated to modern viewers, this film is set twenty years earlier during World War 1, and deals with a love triangle between stoic Herbert Marshall, lovely and gracious Merle Oberon, and the always charming and very handsome Frederic March. When Oberon decides to marry March instead of Marshall, she finds there isn't time to get the proper licenses and such before the boys are shipped out to war. Instead, March and Oberon stage a faux wedding and spend an evening together in a hotel on their last night together. Whether they consumated their "union" or not is left up to the viewers imagination--today you'd see everything in graffic detail. Due to a misunderstanding, Herbert Marshall's character (who is March's superior officer) comes to believe that March has spent the night with a prostitute, and to retalitate he refuses March's request for a leave so he can marry Oberon. During an explosion, March is blinded. Afraid to be rejected by Oberon, he goes into hiding after the war and becomes a successful author of children's books. Oberon and Marshall believe him to be dead, and then decide to marry each other. Only then do the couple learn that March is still alive. Will Oberon go ahead and marry Marshall as planned? Will she take March back? Will self-pitying March have her? And will Oberon's obnoxious cousin gets what's coming to him? Sounds like a pretty juicy soap opera, and it is, only the acting, directing, and styling in every area is worlds away from the schlock you're liable to see today. If these vintage "weepies" are not to your liking, go ahead and pick up a Julia Roberts or Meg Ryan film and stare at the screen for 90 mind-numbing minutes and come out thinking you've seen quality acting and a good story. But if you can get past the black and white photography and slightly dated speech and acting style--and this is some darn good acting!--I highly recommend giving this one a watch. Yes, it's a "chick flick" from long ago, but it will leave you sad, happy, and in a romantic mood. Too bad it's "out of stock" at the moment.

Another great 1930's film with Fredric March
Let me begin by saying I have recently discovered Fredric March. I am 40 yrs. old and never saw him in anything until this summer when I saw him in "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde". After that, I was hooked, and now I have collected over 40 of his films. This man is a wonderful actor that noone should miss. In this film Fredric March plays a man, Alan Trent, who came to live with his aunt and cousin Gerald Shannon(played by Herbert Marshall)in England when he was a boy. The 2 boys grew up together, and are close and great friends. They both happen to love the same girl, Kitty(Merle Oberon). Well, Fred wins Kitty's heart, and they want to be married before he must go to war, but due to circimstances beyond their control,they can't. Kitty spends the night with him before he leaves (they remain chaste), and this scene of them together is very well done. Unfortunately, Gerald gets the wrong idea about the evening Alan had, and later as his commanding officer at the battlefront, sends Alan on a dangerous mission instead of granting him leave so he can marry Kitty.Gerald believes he has died in action, and regrets that he sent Alan on the mission. I don't want to tell too much of the story...but Alan is not dead, only blind. Fredric March is a man of amazing talent. As a blind man, he is totally convincing. One of my favorite scenes is when he is alone in his hotel room, and he feels his way around. We see Fred's hands as he touches a wall lamp. When he stands by the door when the children come in, for two of them have never seen a blind man, it is the most touching and beautiful scenes I have seen Fred in. He was truly a beautiful man. I will say that this film ends happily, with all things right and as they should be. If you like WW1 timeframe movies ( I do), and if you like romances (I do), and if you like to gaze upon Fredric March as a handsome soldier and otherwise (I do), then this movie will in no way disappoint you. It is a hard to find video, but well worth it!

Underated, Tasteful "Golden- Age" Hollywood Melodrama
The Dark Angel has become one of my favorite melodramas from this decade. With production design by Richard Day, cinematography by Greg Toland(future credit would include Citizen Kane), and strong performances from all three princples,The Dark Angel has many attributes worth viewing. Merle Oberon was convincing and sympathetic in this role that was a departure from her previous exotic fare and she was rewarded with a "Best Actress" nomination. Herbert Marshall's usual stalwart acting is somehow appropriate for his character. However, it is Fredric March that has the most compelling scenes in The Dark Angel, especially after he returns from World War I and recovers in a British Hospital that rehabilitates blinded soldiers. Although sentimental at times, I found this movie to be surprisingly well conceived and engrossing. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Delores Del Rio shines in a lackluster effort
At the time it was filmed, "Bird of Paradise" cost an astronomical 1 million dollars. Producer David Selznick okayed the project and said that he didn't care anything about the plot as long as Delores Del Rio's character was thrown into a volcano at the end. The disregard for a good story line clearly shows and the result is a boring and tepid film highlighted only by actress Delores Del Rio. Although Del Rio's voice is high pitched and she speaks little English here, her beauty and presence holds your attention. The exotic locales are not that impressive in black and white and some underwater footage was taken from another film, "The Most Dangerous Game".

The flip side of the dvd features "The Lady Refuses" a low budget "adult drama" popular in its' day for presenting provocative story lines. This one involves a wealthy man hiring a prostitute (Betty Compton) to seduce his son away from a gold digger that he is dating. In the process, Compton falls in love with her employer instead. Interesting only for a peek at how films got around the censors with sly word play and innuendos.

The dvd quality of both films is very good.

BEAUTIFUL DEL RIO.
Director King Vidor found Richard Walton Tully's play of the same name on which this film is based hopelessly dated and uninteresting. Producer David O. Selznick countered thusly: "I don't care what story you use as long as the title remains intact and Del Rio jumps into a flaming volcano at the finish". The stunningly exotic beauty of Dolores Del Rio made her the first Mexican actress ever to become an international film star. Del Rio had weathered the transition from silents to talkies, but due to her accent and somewhat rudimentary acting ability, her roles had to be carefully chosen; this is probably her most memorable available to the public on video. Filmed on location in Hawaii, the movie's plusses lie in its appeal to the senses, namely in the striking black-and-white photography by Clyde De Vinna - he won an Oscar in 1928 for his work on WHITE SHADOWS IN THE SOUTH SEAS - and Max Steiner's richly evocative background score, designed to illustrate everything from Polynesian native dancing to idyllic, romantic interludes. The film was made rather quickly - stars Del Rio and McCrea had other commitments - and the script was was literally slapped together. BIRD OF PARADISE cost RKO more than a million dollars to make, a high expence in 1932; this lush, albeit antique romantic drama has long been overshadowed by the largely inferior 1951 Technicolor remake with Debra Paget and Louis Jourdan.

Strange, engrossing
Strange and amateurish in many regards, yet fascinating and engrossing in its own way, this David O. Selznick production is the original "Bird of Paradise" -- not the 1950s remake starring Debra Paget and Louis Jourdan, which will make for an interesting comparison if it's ever released on DVD.

The stars of this one, Joel McCrea and Delores Del Rio, make quite a strange pair. Joel seems like a hayseed just off farm (his dialogue is peppered with "huhs?" and "whats?" as he seeks to communicate with the mysterious island beauty, Delores). As for Dolores, she seems to belong in a different, and probably more interesting, movie than this one. And even her fabled nude swim scene is pretty tame and unimpressive.

The movie was filmed on location in 1930s Hawaii. Although the focus always seems a bit off, the scenery is still beautiful -- and a good reminder of what Hawaii must have been like before "they paved paradise and put up a pink hotel (the Sheraton Waikiki by the way)." There's also quite a bit of underwater photography, which is pretty impressive given that this movie was filmed approximately 70 years ago.

Cheap and fun, this "Bird" is worth looking into if you're interested in old movies, and if you'd like to see what David Selznick was up to just a few short years before filming his masterpiece, "Gone with the Wind."

Hope I like it
I have only seen the 1951 remake of Bird of Paradise when I was a lot younger and I loved it then! I have been relentlessly searching for the 1951 version, but to no avail. Apparently, it was never made on VHS or DVD...I just ordered the 1932 version and hope it is like I remembered. I'm sure it will be slightly different than the one with Debra Paget, but if the storyline is the same, I will enjoy it just as much. I would still like the 1951 version. Chip Kaufmann in his review seems to be very knowledgeable in the movie industry even though he thought the other version was "lame". If anyone knows how I can get a copy of the '51 version, I would be very interested.

One film's a turkey, the other's kinda fun
This DVD gathers two little-known, lesser films of the early sound era. "BIRD OF PARADISE" is an incredibly offensive exercise in exoticized racism, charmingly set in the Hawaiian Islands, and featuring a callow young Joel McCrea as the studly white guy who hooks up with the local chieftain's "tabu" daughter (played by Dolores Del Rio, who I find kind of icky). It's the same sort of dazzle-them-with-modern-gadgets-before-they-throw-us-in-the-volcano plot that was explored a few years later in "Waikiki Wedding" (which is a much more charming movie...), here handled clumsily by director King Vidor. (And I'm not being touchie-feelie or overly sensitive in a hyper-PC way, the racism of the script is very explicit, particularly in the dialog, but also in the plotline...) There's a modicum of interesting, reasonably authentic Polynesian dancing (some of which was choreographed, unremarkably, by Busby Berkeley), and the indigenous cast speaks in real Hawaiian, but in the main part this is simply an exploitative and unentertaining film. By contrast, "THE LADY REFUSES" is a B-movie with a heart of gold, featuring Betty Compson as a London streetwalker who enters an aristocratic family torn apart by a Jazz Age generation gap. Although the script contorts wildly to avoid offensive language, the underlying content is pretty raunchy, and pretty overt. Compson had an unusual onscreen presence -- compelling, although not as picture-perfect pretty as the starlet that would later flood Hollywood. Gilbert Emery, as the family father, Sir Gerald Courtney, is also quite charming. For folks looking for fun pre-Code material, this is a film worth checking out. ... Read more

Reviews (92)

True classic, beautifully preserved and re-released.....
Despite the fact that this film raises issues that are not very potent today, it remains to be a timeless classic because of its sheer artistic value. This great artistic value is largely due to the brilliant idea (the idea of creating a play about Kathrene Hepburn [not literally, of course], for Kathrene Hepburn), the plot itself, and film's charming and witty script. Hepburn is the only and true star in this story, although I can appreciate Stewart and Grant in their roles. But truly, it would not have mattered much artistically, if different supporting cast was chosen. Apparently, it did matter to RKO commercially a great deal. Thank God for that, because Stewart, Grant, Hussey, and Howard all added something to the film. The result is a story with a "love...well, let's just say, more than a usual triangle", that revolves around one Philadelphia society girl and a few of her eccentric family members. The DVD has an outstanding sound and picture quality. Cute little menu and original theatrical trailer are also included. It is nice to know that this great film will stay with us for generations to come and enjoy it.

See it............ NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This is all I need to say:

Cary Grant Katharine Hepburn Jimmy Stewart GREAT PERFORMANCES ALL AROUND, ESPECIALLY FROM THE THREE AMAZING STARS AND RUTH HUSSET!

But I'll say more anyway.

Upper class lady Tracy Lord is about to be married to George Kittridge, general manager of Quaker State something or other (I haven't watched it for a month or so) after two years before divorcing CK Dexter Haven.

Spy Magazine big cheese Sindney Kidd sends Macauly Conner and Elizabeth Imbry to get an inside story on the wedding of Tracy Lord, and George Kittridge. They are to get inside via Tracy's ex husband Dexter, who decides to help for revenge against his ex-bride.

Hilarity ensues via needle sharp dialogue, carefully hidden gags, and terrific performances.

I haven't seen one movie by Cary Grant that I haven't liked; I have seen thrity-two. I Have only seen two Jimmy Stewart and Kate Hepburn that I didn't really enjoy a-piece, and I've seen about twenty or more of theirs.

And Cuckor's direction inspired many directors to choose alternative direction styles.

YES, BUY THIS ONE, YOU WON'T REGRET IT.
This is my absolute favorite performance by the great Katherine Hepburn. She is breathtaking and absolutely wonderful. Brilliant performances all across the board, an especially funny performance by James Stewart is just the icing on the cake. Cary Grant,one of my faves, also delivers a magnificent performance. Also worth mentioning is the very beautiful Ruth Hussey, whose potrayal of Liz is stunning. She was one of the most attractive actresses at the time, in my humble opinion. This movie is very funny and the sets and costumes are among the best Hollywood has ever offered. I highly recommend this as a must own.

Perfection!
So well written, so elegant! My favorite film.

The REAL High Society
Branded by Hollywood as "Box Office Poison" (usually the death blow to an actor's career), Katherine Hepburn put all of her eggs in this ONE basket, to prove she's still a force to be recconned with. Reprising her stage role, Kate secures the rights for the film version of "The Philadelphia Story". The trick worked. Katherine Hepburn was back as a big star on the Hollywood Sky.

Tracy Lord (Katherine Hepburn), a spoiled socialite scheduled to remarry when her first husband, C.K. Dexterhaven (Cary Grant) shows up as uninvited wedding guest. Add to the mix, Mike Connor (James Stewart) a reporter who is supposed to be covering the wedding for the tabloids but winds up falling for Tracy himself. The brief triangle has a predictable ending.

Less glamorous than the 1955 Technicolor Musical re-make "High Society" with Grace Kelly and Bing Crosby, this black & white Classic remains the superior production. Somewhat dated (definitely 1940s Movie Star Magazine material), this is still a groundbreaking romantic comedy. Ted Turner: Please keep your crayons away from this one!**** ... Read more

Reviews (92)

True classic, beautifully preserved and re-released.....
Despite the fact that this film raises issues that are not very potent today, it remains to be a timeless classic because of its sheer artistic value. This great artistic value is largely due to the brilliant idea (the idea of creating a play about Kathrene Hepburn [not literally, of course], for Kathrene Hepburn), the plot itself, and film's charming and witty script. Hepburn is the only and true star in this story, although I can appreciate Stewart and Grant in their roles. But truly, it would not have mattered much artistically, if different supporting cast was chosen. Apparently, it did matter to RKO commercially a great deal. Thank God for that, because Stewart, Grant, Hussey, and Howard all added something to the film. The result is a story with a "love...well, let's just say, more than a usual triangle", that revolves around one Philadelphia society girl and a few of her eccentric family members. The DVD has an outstanding sound and picture quality. Cute little menu and original theatrical trailer are also included. It is nice to know that this great film will stay with us for generations to come and enjoy it.

See it............ NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This is all I need to say:

Cary Grant Katharine Hepburn Jimmy Stewart GREAT PERFORMANCES ALL AROUND, ESPECIALLY FROM THE THREE AMAZING STARS AND RUTH HUSSET!

But I'll say more anyway.

Upper class lady Tracy Lord is about to be married to George Kittridge, general manager of Quaker State something or other (I haven't watched it for a month or so) after two years before divorcing CK Dexter Haven.

Spy Magazine big cheese Sindney Kidd sends Macauly Conner and Elizabeth Imbry to get an inside story on the wedding of Tracy Lord, and George Kittridge. They are to get inside via Tracy's ex husband Dexter, who decides to help for revenge against his ex-bride.

Hilarity ensues via needle sharp dialogue, carefully hidden gags, and terrific performances.

I haven't seen one movie by Cary Grant that I haven't liked; I have seen thrity-two. I Have only seen two Jimmy Stewart and Kate Hepburn that I didn't really enjoy a-piece, and I've seen about twenty or more of theirs.

And Cuckor's direction inspired many directors to choose alternative direction styles.

YES, BUY THIS ONE, YOU WON'T REGRET IT.
This is my absolute favorite performance by the great Katherine Hepburn. She is breathtaking and absolutely wonderful. Brilliant performances all across the board, an especially funny performance by James Stewart is just the icing on the cake. Cary Grant,one of my faves, also delivers a magnificent performance. Also worth mentioning is the very beautiful Ruth Hussey, whose potrayal of Liz is stunning. She was one of the most attractive actresses at the time, in my humble opinion. This movie is very funny and the sets and costumes are among the best Hollywood has ever offered. I highly recommend this as a must own.

Perfection!
So well written, so elegant! My favorite film.

The REAL High Society
Branded by Hollywood as "Box Office Poison" (usually the death blow to an actor's career), Katherine Hepburn put all of her eggs in this ONE basket, to prove she's still a force to be recconned with. Reprising her stage role, Kate secures the rights for the film version of "The Philadelphia Story". The trick worked. Katherine Hepburn was back as a big star on the Hollywood Sky.

Tracy Lord (Katherine Hepburn), a spoiled socialite scheduled to remarry when her first husband, C.K. Dexterhaven (Cary Grant) shows up as uninvited wedding guest. Add to the mix, Mike Connor (James Stewart) a reporter who is supposed to be covering the wedding for the tabloids but winds up falling for Tracy himself. The brief triangle has a predictable ending.

Less glamorous than the 1955 Technicolor Musical re-make "High Society" with Grace Kelly and Bing Crosby, this black & white Classic remains the superior production. Somewhat dated (definitely 1940s Movie Star Magazine material), this is still a groundbreaking romantic comedy. Ted Turner: Please keep your crayons away from this one!**** ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Interesting rarity
The four stars are for the movie's interest for us, Early 1930's Pre-Code Movies' film buffs... The plot is routine and rather stilted, but this was the talkies' "stone age".

Irene Dunne appears in her first year of truly starring roles in pictures(not taking in account the odd "Leathernecking", her cinematic debut in 1930, the only movie she made that year) giving a sympathetic performance, as a woman left by her long-time lover (Lester Vail) (who marries a rich lady for his pianist career's sake) who becomes pals with Pat O'Brien, who's just lived a similar situation with childhood sweetheart Myrna Loy (in one of her vampish roles pre-"Thin Man"), the two of them eventually getting married on the rebound...and there you have the "consolation marriage" of the title.

This oldie gives us a chance of watching an early performance of Miss Dunne, who hadn't yet bloomed into the excellent comedienne (& dramatic actress too) she became afterwards in the decade...although there are many hints of what was going to come.We have the opportunity too, of watching a very young, I'd say almost sort of "boyish", Pat O'Brien, before his Warner Bros. better known roles....as for Myrna Loy, she looks radiant and beautifully sophisticated as a blonde, in those sexy early '30s outfits, she wears through the film. Johnny Halliday, as O'Brien's pal, is good as usual, looking a lot like Adolphe Menjou.

Worth the watch for early '30s fans. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Beautiful meditation on memory and love
Another film from the 1940's that remembers the turn of the century--in this case, after all the characters have grown old, they look back on their lives. Lydia, a headstrong girl, is wooed by a number of men, but there are always complications. Finally she meets a man who sweeps her away, but problems arise once again. What makes this film lovely is its recreation of another time, with its breathtaking winter scenes and evocative plays on memory. And Joseph Cotten and Merle Oberon are excellent, among others. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

WHAT SOPHISTICATION LOOKS, SMELLS AND SOUNDS LIKE
Now that movies have degenerated into (male) car crashes, or (female) dike-rap, one returns to films like this one to try to imagine what all of Cole Porter, Cary Grant, Edward and Wallis, Duke Ellington and Fred Astaire were all about. It isn't enough to say, merely "Style;" Camp has pretty much sullied that word for two generations, now. But style -- or that combination of concept and high finish that a furniture manufacture calls The Bogart Look -- exists, or existed, once, and one can see it here, live and bubbling like a genie of mirth climbing out of a champagne bottle.

The plot is simple enough: a beautiful European jewel thief on the run accidentally meets and falls in love with a naif but excruciatingly handsome American guy in a very good suit. They go through the choreography of flirtation in back-lot Southrn Spain, surrounded by a stellar crew of supporting players with wonderful accents.

Dietrich, again in her version of the Dolores Del Rio look, wearing a dress nobody else in the world could wear, sits at the piano and accompanies herself in the song, "You've Got That Look." It is too insane! It is wonderful. It's a performance you'd have paid a hundred bucks (in 1940's money) for in a good New York hotel boite, but Lena Horne or Eartha Kitt or even Hildegarde would have given it to you.

This is all about the Romantic Feature Film as comic art. It ought to be required reading for all the film wanabees who hope to direct, and somehow get the chance, but turn out low-brow drivel like When Harry Met Sally. You can (and maybe you should) watch this movie over and over, the way you enjoy anything rare and precious. Like the Marx Brothers comedies, it has healing power, and pre-war value.

Every element in it is expertly integrated. It's a short movie, really, but so perfectly realized you have the impression of having had either a convincing halucination, or a true life experience.

Champagne for the eyes.

"She can start a revolution with me anytime."
In "Desire" jewel thief Countess Madeleine de Beaupre (Marlene Dietrich) pulls off the ingenious theft of an extremely valuable pearl necklace. Then she's off to meet her fellow thieves in Madrid when she bumps into hardworking American engineer Tom Bradley (Gary Cooper). He's on holiday for the first time in years, and he's determined to really enjoy himself.

The film is interesting to begin with, and although Cooper plays the engineer with a great deal of charm, and Dietrich--as always--is fun to watch--the romance between these two characters lacked any sparks. It's obvious that the film is trying to capitalize on the contrast between Dietrich's exotic European presence and Cooper's good-old-fashioned lack of sophistication. While this works, it works almost too well, and I couldn't help wincing at the idea that the naive Bradley intends to unleash the sultry countess on the streets of his unsuspecting native city, Detroit. The prospect of such likelihood becomes a little absurd. Consequently, the film, while containing some marvelous dialogue, requires a whopping dollop of suspension of disbelief. The dynamic between the couple was at its best when Cooper spars with Dietrich's fellow thieves and the conversation is laced with innuendo. Dietrich and Cooper fans will want to see the film--but it lacks the greatness of Dietrich's Josef von Sternberg films--displacedhuman

THE PEARL NECKLACE...
Madeleine du Beaupre steals a pearl necklace from a Paris jewelry firm and rushes by car for the Spanish border. On the road, she zooms past Tom Bradley, a young American engineer on vacation, who is also heading for Spain. At the border, going through customs, Madeleine drops the pearls into Tom's coat pocket; he gets safely through....Cooper stated back in 1930, after making MOROCCO with Dietrich, that he wouldn't make another picture with her. It was found out later that what he meant specifically, was that it was their director - Josef Von Sternberg - that he didn't care to work with again. Paramount had wanted to team Cooper with Dietrich immediately after their successful stint in MOROCCO but Cooper balked at the idea for some time. In 1935, Coop was asked if he'd be willing to co-star with Dietrich in THE PEARL NECKLACE - this film's working title - and he readily agreed. Gary and Marlene make a good pair; his quiet, well-mannered countenance complimented her sophisticated style perfectly. Cooper brings a freshness and humour to his role; he's charming as the the naive lad from Detroit - the idyllic typical American male of the 1930's - and he seems to be having a great time to himself. DESIRE'S story really isn't much, but the production has panache, and the way the two stars handled their roles make this a film to view more than once. Look for a 49 year-old Bill (Fred Mertz) Frawley in his role as Mr. Gibson.

desire for Marlene
This was Marelene Dietrich's last money-making film for Paramount Studios during her original time as a contract player. She had just left Josef Von Sternberg, her mentor,(or he had left her) and the public was beginning to tire of her. In this film she seemed more relaxed, more at ease, and seemed to be having a lot of fun during this film, not to mention looking absolutely gorgeous in each costume. Gary Cooper, with whom Dietrich had made her American film debut in 'Morocco', was again her co-star, and again the chemistry worked. This had to be one of the most beautiful couples ever rendered in black-and-white film.
The story and plot centers around a stolen and then lost strand of pearls, and Dietrich's(the thief) efforts to get them back from an innocent man(Cooper), on whose person she hid them in order to escape. All works well in her plan until she finds herself falling in love with him, and he with her. There's always
something to mess up every well-laid plan, eh?

Anyway, this film greatly benefits from the producer, Ernst Lubitsh, and his famed "Touch". there is a lot of real, adult humour in this film without going ribald. Lots of excellant photography and gorgeous costume work, and Dietrich and Cooper being themselves. What more could you want?

A love story with all the twists and turns--a delight!
This is the second teaming of Marlene Dietrich and Gary Cooper. This one works even better than "Morocco"! -- Dietrich is a jewel thief with a problem: She hid the goods with unsuspecting Cooper to get past customs officials. Now she must chase him through the Spanish country-side, determined to get back "her" pearl necklace. Of course, they fall in love. The ending, like the pearls, is priceless! Treat yourselves to this gem of a film! ... Read more

Reviews (92)

True classic, beautifully preserved and re-released.....
Despite the fact that this film raises issues that are not very potent today, it remains to be a timeless classic because of its sheer artistic value. This great artistic value is largely due to the brilliant idea (the idea of creating a play about Kathrene Hepburn [not literally, of course], for Kathrene Hepburn), the plot itself, and film's charming and witty script. Hepburn is the only and true star in this story, although I can appreciate Stewart and Grant in their roles. But truly, it would not have mattered much artistically, if different supporting cast was chosen. Apparently, it did matter to RKO commercially a great deal. Thank God for that, because Stewart, Grant, Hussey, and Howard all added something to the film. The result is a story with a "love...well, let's just say, more than a usual triangle", that revolves around one Philadelphia society girl and a few of her eccentric family members. The DVD has an outstanding sound and picture quality. Cute little menu and original theatrical trailer are also included. It is nice to know that this great film will stay with us for generations to come and enjoy it.

See it............ NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This is all I need to say:

Cary Grant Katharine Hepburn Jimmy Stewart GREAT PERFORMANCES ALL AROUND, ESPECIALLY FROM THE THREE AMAZING STARS AND RUTH HUSSET!

But I'll say more anyway.

Upper class lady Tracy Lord is about to be married to George Kittridge, general manager of Quaker State something or other (I haven't watched it for a month or so) after two years before divorcing CK Dexter Haven.

Spy Magazine big cheese Sindney Kidd sends Macauly Conner and Elizabeth Imbry to get an inside story on the wedding of Tracy Lord, and George Kittridge. They are to get inside via Tracy's ex husband Dexter, who decides to help for revenge against his ex-bride.

Hilarity ensues via needle sharp dialogue, carefully hidden gags, and terrific performances.

I haven't seen one movie by Cary Grant that I haven't liked; I have seen thrity-two. I Have only seen two Jimmy Stewart and Kate Hepburn that I didn't really enjoy a-piece, and I've seen about twenty or more of theirs.

And Cuckor's direction inspired many directors to choose alternative direction styles.

YES, BUY THIS ONE, YOU WON'T REGRET IT.
This is my absolute favorite performance by the great Katherine Hepburn. She is breathtaking and absolutely wonderful. Brilliant performances all across the board, an especially funny performance by James Stewart is just the icing on the cake. Cary Grant,one of my faves, also delivers a magnificent performance. Also worth mentioning is the very beautiful Ruth Hussey, whose potrayal of Liz is stunning. She was one of the most attractive actresses at the time, in my humble opinion. This movie is very funny and the sets and costumes are among the best Hollywood has ever offered. I highly recommend this as a must own.

Perfection!
So well written, so elegant! My favorite film.

The REAL High Society
Branded by Hollywood as "Box Office Poison" (usually the death blow to an actor's career), Katherine Hepburn put all of her eggs in this ONE basket, to prove she's still a force to be recconned with. Reprising her stage role, Kate secures the rights for the film version of "The Philadelphia Story". The trick worked. Katherine Hepburn was back as a big star on the Hollywood Sky.

Tracy Lord (Katherine Hepburn), a spoiled socialite scheduled to remarry when her first husband, C.K. Dexterhaven (Cary Grant) shows up as uninvited wedding guest. Add to the mix, Mike Connor (James Stewart) a reporter who is supposed to be covering the wedding for the tabloids but winds up falling for Tracy himself. The brief triangle has a predictable ending.

Less glamorous than the 1955 Technicolor Musical re-make "High Society" with Grace Kelly and Bing Crosby, this black & white Classic remains the superior production. Somewhat dated (definitely 1940s Movie Star Magazine material), this is still a groundbreaking romantic comedy. Ted Turner: Please keep your crayons away from this one!**** ... Read more

Reviews (2)

PRE-CODE TWELVETREES.
Never having seen Twelvetrees really act before - THE PAINTED DESERT is the only other film in which I've seen her in - I was quite impressed by her believable emoting in this film which is essentially a pre-code soap opera. Soon after her father dies, young Millie Blake leaves college to elope with a businessman named Jack Maitland. They go to live in NYC where they eventually have a daughter: but soon Millie suspects her husband isn't on the up and up....An interesting curio - with a more lucrative plot than one would suppose, it is a good showcase for the actress - who could actually act. The supporting cast is interesting: Joan Blondell, Frank McHugh, Lilyan Tashman, Anita Louise and John Halliday.

Helen Twelvetrees is lovely
The lovely talented Miss Twelvetrees displays her talent in this pre-code soaper covering 16 years. Millie (Miss Twelvetrees) marries a New Yorker and moves to the big city. 3 years later Millie finds her husband lunching (and kissing) with another woman. She divorces but leaves her child with the father. She has no money but he has the big house and income.

She goes to work at a stationary counter and gradually works her way up, gaining the notice of a big shot business man and a down to earth reporter. When the Millie finds the reporter spending time at another woman's apartment, she loses hope and takes to drinking and loose morals (prostitution). Years later, Millie hears how the big business man is after her now 16-year old daughter (the one left behind during her divorce). Millie rushes to the scene and shoots him. For the dramatic conclusion........buy the video.

Helen Twelvetrees goes through a very believable transformation from young school girl to burn-out middle age drunk. The final scenes are very good and dramatic. I recommend this film to pre-code fans, Helen Twelvetree fans and anyone who enjoys old soap dramas. Helen is worth watching. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Delores Del Rio shines in a lackluster effort
At the time it was filmed, "Bird of Paradise" cost an astronomical 1 million dollars. Producer David Selznick okayed the project and said that he didn't care anything about the plot as long as Delores Del Rio's character was thrown into a volcano at the end. The disregard for a good story line clearly shows and the result is a boring and tepid film highlighted only by actress Delores Del Rio. Although Del Rio's voice is high pitched and she speaks little English here, her beauty and presence holds your attention. The exotic locales are not that impressive in black and white and some underwater footage was taken from another film, "The Most Dangerous Game".

The flip side of the dvd features "The Lady Refuses" a low budget "adult drama" popular in its' day for presenting provocative story lines. This one involves a wealthy man hiring a prostitute (Betty Compton) to seduce his son away from a gold digger that he is dating. In the process, Compton falls in love with her employer instead. Interesting only for a peek at how films got around the censors with sly word play and innuendos.

The dvd quality of both films is very good.

BEAUTIFUL DEL RIO.
Director King Vidor found Richard Walton Tully's play of the same name on which this film is based hopelessly dated and uninteresting. Producer David O. Selznick countered thusly: "I don't care what story you use as long as the title remains intact and Del Rio jumps into a flaming volcano at the finish". The stunningly exotic beauty of Dolores Del Rio made her the first Mexican actress ever to become an international film star. Del Rio had weathered the transition from silents to talkies, but due to her accent and somewhat rudimentary acting ability, her roles had to be carefully chosen; this is probably her most memorable available to the public on video. Filmed on location in Hawaii, the movie's plusses lie in its appeal to the senses, namely in the striking black-and-white photography by Clyde De Vinna - he won an Oscar in 1928 for his work on WHITE SHADOWS IN THE SOUTH SEAS - and Max Steiner's richly evocative background score, designed to illustrate everything from Polynesian native dancing to idyllic, romantic interludes. The film was made rather quickly - stars Del Rio and McCrea had other commitments - and the script was was literally slapped together. BIRD OF PARADISE cost RKO more than a million dollars to make, a high expence in 1932; this lush, albeit antique romantic drama has long been overshadowed by the largely inferior 1951 Technicolor remake with Debra Paget and Louis Jourdan.

Strange, engrossing
Strange and amateurish in many regards, yet fascinating and engrossing in its own way, this David O. Selznick production is the original "Bird of Paradise" -- not the 1950s remake starring Debra Paget and Louis Jourdan, which will make for an interesting comparison if it's ever released on DVD.

The stars of this one, Joel McCrea and Delores Del Rio, make quite a strange pair. Joel seems like a hayseed just off farm (his dialogue is peppered with "huhs?" and "whats?" as he seeks to communicate with the mysterious island beauty, Delores). As for Dolores, she seems to belong in a different, and probably more interesting, movie than this one. And even her fabled nude swim scene is pretty tame and unimpressive.

The movie was filmed on location in 1930s Hawaii. Although the focus always seems a bit off, the scenery is still beautiful -- and a good reminder of what Hawaii must have been like before "they paved paradise and put up a pink hotel (the Sheraton Waikiki by the way)." There's also quite a bit of underwater photography, which is pretty impressive given that this movie was filmed approximately 70 years ago.

Cheap and fun, this "Bird" is worth looking into if you're interested in old movies, and if you'd like to see what David Selznick was up to just a few short years before filming his masterpiece, "Gone with the Wind."

Hope I like it
I have only seen the 1951 remake of Bird of Paradise when I was a lot younger and I loved it then! I have been relentlessly searching for the 1951 version, but to no avail. Apparently, it was never made on VHS or DVD...I just ordered the 1932 version and hope it is like I remembered. I'm sure it will be slightly different than the one with Debra Paget, but if the storyline is the same, I will enjoy it just as much. I would still like the 1951 version. Chip Kaufmann in his review seems to be very knowledgeable in the movie industry even though he thought the other version was "lame". If anyone knows how I can get a copy of the '51 version, I would be very interested.

One film's a turkey, the other's kinda fun
This DVD gathers two little-known, lesser films of the early sound era. "BIRD OF PARADISE" is an incredibly offensive exercise in exoticized racism, charmingly set in the Hawaiian Islands, and featuring a callow young Joel McCrea as the studly white guy who hooks up with the local chieftain's "tabu" daughter (played by Dolores Del Rio, who I find kind of icky). It's the same sort of dazzle-them-with-modern-gadgets-before-they-throw-us-in-the-volcano plot that was explored a few years later in "Waikiki Wedding" (which is a much more charming movie...), here handled clumsily by director King Vidor. (And I'm not being touchie-feelie or overly sensitive in a hyper-PC way, the racism of the script is very explicit, particularly in the dialog, but also in the plotline...) There's a modicum of interesting, reasonably authentic Polynesian dancing (some of which was choreographed, unremarkably, by Busby Berkeley), and the indigenous cast speaks in real Hawaiian, but in the main part this is simply an exploitative and unentertaining film. By contrast, "THE LADY REFUSES" is a B-movie with a heart of gold, featuring Betty Compson as a London streetwalker who enters an aristocratic family torn apart by a Jazz Age generation gap. Although the script contorts wildly to avoid offensive language, the underlying content is pretty raunchy, and pretty overt. Compson had an unusual onscreen presence -- compelling, although not as picture-perfect pretty as the starlet that would later flood Hollywood. Gilbert Emery, as the family father, Sir Gerald Courtney, is also quite charming. For folks looking for fun pre-Code material, this is a film worth checking out. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Delores Del Rio shines in a lackluster effort
At the time it was filmed, "Bird of Paradise" cost an astronomical 1 million dollars. Producer David Selznick okayed the project and said that he didn't care anything about the plot as long as Delores Del Rio's character was thrown into a volcano at the end. The disregard for a good story line clearly shows and the result is a boring and tepid film highlighted only by actress Delores Del Rio. Although Del Rio's voice is high pitched and she speaks little English here, her beauty and presence holds your attention. The exotic locales are not that impressive in black and white and some underwater footage was taken from another film, "The Most Dangerous Game".

The flip side of the dvd features "The Lady Refuses" a low budget "adult drama" popular in its' day for presenting provocative story lines. This one involves a wealthy man hiring a prostitute (Betty Compton) to seduce his son away from a gold digger that he is dating. In the process, Compton falls in love with her employer instead. Interesting only for a peek at how films got around the censors with sly word play and innuendos.

The dvd quality of both films is very good.

BEAUTIFUL DEL RIO.
Director King Vidor found Richard Walton Tully's play of the same name on which this film is based hopelessly dated and uninteresting. Producer David O. Selznick countered thusly: "I don't care what story you use as long as the title remains intact and Del Rio jumps into a flaming volcano at the finish". The stunningly exotic beauty of Dolores Del Rio made her the first Mexican actress ever to become an international film star. Del Rio had weathered the transition from silents to talkies, but due to her accent and somewhat rudimentary acting ability, her roles had to be carefully chosen; this is probably her most memorable available to the public on video. Filmed on location in Hawaii, the movie's plusses lie in its appeal to the senses, namely in the striking black-and-white photography by Clyde De Vinna - he won an Oscar in 1928 for his work on WHITE SHADOWS IN THE SOUTH SEAS - and Max Steiner's richly evocative background score, designed to illustrate everything from Polynesian native dancing to idyllic, romantic interludes. The film was made rather quickly - stars Del Rio and McCrea had other commitments - and the script was was literally slapped together. BIRD OF PARADISE cost RKO more than a million dollars to make, a high expence in 1932; this lush, albeit antique romantic drama has long been overshadowed by the largely inferior 1951 Technicolor remake with Debra Paget and Louis Jourdan.

Strange, engrossing
Strange and amateurish in many regards, yet fascinating and engrossing in its own way, this David O. Selznick production is the original "Bird of Paradise" -- not the 1950s remake starring Debra Paget and Louis Jourdan, which will make for an interesting comparison if it's ever released on DVD.

The stars of this one, Joel McCrea and Delores Del Rio, make quite a strange pair. Joel seems like a hayseed just off farm (his dialogue is peppered with "huhs?" and "whats?" as he seeks to communicate with the mysterious island beauty, Delores). As for Dolores, she seems to belong in a different, and probably more interesting, movie than this one. And even her fabled nude swim scene is pretty tame and unimpressive.

The movie was filmed on location in 1930s Hawaii. Although the focus always seems a bit off, the scenery is still beautiful -- and a good reminder of what Hawaii must have been like before "they paved paradise and put up a pink hotel (the Sheraton Waikiki by the way)." There's also quite a bit of underwater photography, which is pretty impressive given that this movie was filmed approximately 70 years ago.

Cheap and fun, this "Bird" is worth looking into if you're interested in old movies, and if you'd like to see what David Selznick was up to just a few short years before filming his masterpiece, "Gone with the Wind."

Hope I like it
I have only seen the 1951 remake of Bird of Paradise when I was a lot younger and I loved it then! I have been relentlessly searching for the 1951 version, but to no avail. Apparently, it was never made on VHS or DVD...I just ordered the 1932 version and hope it is like I remembered. I'm sure it will be slightly different than the one with Debra Paget, but if the storyline is the same, I will enjoy it just as much. I would still like the 1951 version. Chip Kaufmann in his review seems to be very knowledgeable in the movie industry even though he thought the other version was "lame". If anyone knows how I can get a copy of the '51 version, I would be very interested.

One film's a turkey, the other's kinda fun
This DVD gathers two little-known, lesser films of the early sound era. "BIRD OF PARADISE" is an incredibly offensive exercise in exoticized racism, charmingly set in the Hawaiian Islands, and featuring a callow young Joel McCrea as the studly white guy who hooks up with the local chieftain's "tabu" daughter (played by Dolores Del Rio, who I find kind of icky). It's the same sort of dazzle-them-with-modern-gadgets-before-they-throw-us-in-the-volcano plot that was explored a few years later in "Waikiki Wedding" (which is a much more charming movie...), here handled clumsily by director King Vidor. (And I'm not being touchie-feelie or overly sensitive in a hyper-PC way, the racism of the script is very explicit, particularly in the dialog, but also in the plotline...) There's a modicum of interesting, reasonably authentic Polynesian dancing (some of which was choreographed, unremarkably, by Busby Berkeley), and the indigenous cast speaks in real Hawaiian, but in the main part this is simply an exploitative and unentertaining film. By contrast, "THE LADY REFUSES" is a B-movie with a heart of gold, featuring Betty Compson as a London streetwalker who enters an aristocratic family torn apart by a Jazz Age generation gap. Although the script contorts wildly to avoid offensive language, the underlying content is pretty raunchy, and pretty overt. Compson had an unusual onscreen presence -- compelling, although not as picture-perfect pretty as the starlet that would later flood Hollywood. Gilbert Emery, as the family father, Sir Gerald Courtney, is also quite charming. For folks looking for fun pre-Code material, this is a film worth checking out. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

A Soap Well Done
Ingrid Bergman and Leslie Howard have made their careers playing exactly the kind of star-crossed lovers who find each other as in INTERMEZZO. Howard had just finished filming GONE WITH THE WIND when director Gregory Ratoff tapped him to play Holger Brandt, a concert violinist who seems to have it all: a loving wife (well played by Edna Best), two happy children, and a successful career touring the opera circuit. Yet, behind the surface happiness, Holger sends out subtle signals that all is not well both in his life and in his marriage. His touring takes him away from home for long stretches. His wife and daughter miss him, and his growing absences begin to nettle all concerned. He seems to be a man ready for a too-soon mid life crisis. Enter Anita (Ingrid Bergman) as a piano teacher for his daughter. Anita is far more than just a child's tutor; she is a gifted concert pianist in her own right. It does not take long for sparks to fly between them, as each soon has to face the unavoidable question that all adulterers cannot avoid: how can they build happiness on the unhappiness of others?

Ingrid Bergman had earlier played the same role in a Swedish version of the same film with an identical title. Since she did not know English, she had to learn her lines with the help of language tutors who wisely decided to leave untouched her lilting Swedish accent that had since become her trademark. Both Bergman and Howard bounce off each other in all the right ways and at just the right moments as their characters are basically deeply sensitive to the realization that their new-found love must collide painfully with the near-extinguished love of Howard and Best. Miss Best, who as Holger's infinitely understanding wife, is not pushed into the background by her far better known actor leads. In fact, she steals more than a few scenes with an acting style that emits a wealth of emotion with the merest of glances. Early in the affair between Holger and Anita, Mrs. Brandt sees Anita casually fondling Holger's violin case, and her stifled gasp tells the audience all it needs to know that she knows of the affair but chooses to give Holger a chance to sort out his feelings. INTERMEZZO is the rarest of soaps. You learn to care for the characters even as they tread down a path that a legion of other less able films headed. Good acting will usually do that.

She was an intermezzo in his life.
The story is basic and told in many ways. A famous violinist (Leslie Howard) falls in love with his daughter's piano teacher (Ingrid Bergman). Unlike many movies where the pare cause each other trouble and force the other to beg their way back into good graces, the situations are real enough that you feel that you are part of the story. You will have to watch to find out how they deal with feelings and act on them.

If you find this movie as intriguing as I do, your next one should be Brief Encounter - Criterion Collection (1945). See my review When you feel like British, no other film will do as well. May 6, 2001

INCANDESCENT BERGMAN
The story of of a romantic affair between a pianist and a married violinist. David O. Selznick had second thoughts about casting Bergman in this film; at one point he was considering replacing her with Loretta Young (!). However, as filming proceeded, Bergman's proficientcy improved dramatically, as did her stock with Selznick. The producer was pleased and impressed by her total and unselfish commitment to the success of the picture and her willingness to invest many long, hard days to achieve that goal. Under the tutelage of Ruth Roberts, MGM's language coach - who had trained Hedy Lamarr - she learned English quickly and fluently, proving herself to have a natural flair for languages. As sweet and lilting as the violins which permeate the film, INTERMEZZO premiered in October of 1939, and it was a resounding success; Ingrid Bergman became an international star overnight. David O. Selznick rewarded her with a 7 year contract and she enjoyed a flourishing career as one of Hollywood's leading actresses until 1948, when she bore an illegitimate child by Italian director Roberto Rossellini. It wasn't until 1956 that Hollywood welcomed her back; that year she won her AA for ANASTASIA.

The Days of Innocent Ingrid
This movie is a perfect example of Ingrid in her pre-hollywood innocent days. I love her Swedish movies because she's always the innocent little girl that everyone loves. She is a young piano podigy who supports herself by teaching piano lessons. She falls in love with her student's father who is a famous violin player. She runs away with him, but being sweet, moral Ingrid, leaves because she can't have an affair with a married man. She actually plays the piano in this movie, and quite beautifully. I've seen the English version as well and I prefer the Swedish one. A must-see for any Bergman fan.

Great love story!
This is yet another masterpiece from that magical movie year of l939. And it was produced by none other than David Selznick, who just happened to be involved in another little film that very year. Let's see, what was the name? Oh, yes. Gone with the Wind. Intermezzo is mesmerizing because of the thick gloss of glamor, the shimmering photography, costumes and of course the musical score which is threaded throughout with classical motifs. The score, in fact, was supposedly composed by the overworked Max Steiner although his name doesn't appear in the credits. Although a short movie, just barely over an hour, the dreamy, ravishing lighting, shadowing, glowing photography makes this such a super-production you'll want to see it repeatedly. Oh, yes, it does star the radiant Ingrid Bergman making her American movie debut. Leslie Howard, believe it or not, does come alive in this one, a lot more than his wooden Ashely Wilkes of GWTW. For lovers of all ages, and movie buffs of every nationality, Intermezzo, should definitely be on your movie shelf. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Ingrid Bergman made her radiant Hollywood debut in this David O. Selznick-produced remake of a 1936 Swedish film, in which she played the same role, a gifted piano teacher. Leslie Howard costars as the brilliant violinist whose world tours often take him from the flow of life within his own family. Married to a fine woman (Edna Best) and blessed with two wonderful children, Howard's character only begins to realize that so much is passing by him when he falls for his concert pianist (Bergman). During a Riviera holiday, the two illicit lovers bask in passion while privately agonizing over the collapse of their separate destinies. Can two people find happiness built on the unhappiness of others? That's the question asked by the sage friend (Cecil Kellaway) whom they both share. In the same year Selznick cast Howard in Gone with the Wind, the sophisticated actor did a fine, sympathetic job penetrating the lost and tormented heart of his character in Intermezzo. But it is Bergman--the very picture of spring and a magnificent avatar of the perpetual conflict between mind and heart--who ultimately gives this film its soul. The Selznick machine, with its top-drawer production values and the dreamy gloss of its human stories, makes this film a more poignant experience than the average weepie.--Tom Keogh ... Read more

Reviews (5)

A Soap Well Done
Ingrid Bergman and Leslie Howard have made their careers playing exactly the kind of star-crossed lovers who find each other as in INTERMEZZO. Howard had just finished filming GONE WITH THE WIND when director Gregory Ratoff tapped him to play Holger Brandt, a concert violinist who seems to have it all: a loving wife (well played by Edna Best), two happy children, and a successful career touring the opera circuit. Yet, behind the surface happiness, Holger sends out subtle signals that all is not well both in his life and in his marriage. His touring takes him away from home for long stretches. His wife and daughter miss him, and his growing absences begin to nettle all concerned. He seems to be a man ready for a too-soon mid life crisis. Enter Anita (Ingrid Bergman) as a piano teacher for his daughter. Anita is far more than just a child's tutor; she is a gifted concert pianist in her own right. It does not take long for sparks to fly between them, as each soon has to face the unavoidable question that all adulterers cannot avoid: how can they build happiness on the unhappiness of others?

Ingrid Bergman had earlier played the same role in a Swedish version of the same film with an identical title. Since she did not know English, she had to learn her lines with the help of language tutors who wisely decided to leave untouched her lilting Swedish accent that had since become her trademark. Both Bergman and Howard bounce off each other in all the right ways and at just the right moments as their characters are basically deeply sensitive to the realization that their new-found love must collide painfully with the near-extinguished love of Howard and Best. Miss Best, who as Holger's infinitely understanding wife, is not pushed into the background by her far better known actor leads. In fact, she steals more than a few scenes with an acting style that emits a wealth of emotion with the merest of glances. Early in the affair between Holger and Anita, Mrs. Brandt sees Anita casually fondling Holger's violin case, and her stifled gasp tells the audience all it needs to know that she knows of the affair but chooses to give Holger a chance to sort out his feelings. INTERMEZZO is the rarest of soaps. You learn to care for the characters even as they tread down a path that a legion of other less able films headed. Good acting will usually do that.

She was an intermezzo in his life.
The story is basic and told in many ways. A famous violinist (Leslie Howard) falls in love with his daughter's piano teacher (Ingrid Bergman). Unlike many movies where the pare cause each other trouble and force the other to beg their way back into good graces, the situations are real enough that you feel that you are part of the story. You will have to watch to find out how they deal with feelings and act on them.

If you find this movie as intriguing as I do, your next one should be Brief Encounter - Criterion Collection (1945). See my review When you feel like British, no other film will do as well. May 6, 2001

INCANDESCENT BERGMAN
The story of of a romantic affair between a pianist and a married violinist. David O. Selznick had second thoughts about casting Bergman in this film; at one point he was considering replacing her with Loretta Young (!). However, as filming proceeded, Bergman's proficientcy improved dramatically, as did her stock with Selznick. The producer was pleased and impressed by her total and unselfish commitment to the success of the picture and her willingness to invest many long, hard days to achieve that goal. Under the tutelage of Ruth Roberts, MGM's language coach - who had trained Hedy Lamarr - she learned English quickly and fluently, proving herself to have a natural flair for languages. As sweet and lilting as the violins which permeate the film, INTERMEZZO premiered in October of 1939, and it was a resounding success; Ingrid Bergman became an international star overnight. David O. Selznick rewarded her with a 7 year contract and she enjoyed a flourishing career as one of Hollywood's leading actresses until 1948, when she bore an illegitimate child by Italian director Roberto Rossellini. It wasn't until 1956 that Hollywood welcomed her back; that year she won her AA for ANASTASIA.

The Days of Innocent Ingrid
This movie is a perfect example of Ingrid in her pre-hollywood innocent days. I love her Swedish movies because she's always the innocent little girl that everyone loves. She is a young piano podigy who supports herself by teaching piano lessons. She falls in love with her student's father who is a famous violin player. She runs away with him, but being sweet, moral Ingrid, leaves because she can't have an affair with a married man. She actually plays the piano in this movie, and quite beautifully. I've seen the English version as well and I prefer the Swedish one. A must-see for any Bergman fan.

Great love story!
This is yet another masterpiece from that magical movie year of l939. And it was produced by none other than David Selznick, who just happened to be involved in another little film that very year. Let's see, what was the name? Oh, yes. Gone with the Wind. Intermezzo is mesmerizing because of the thick gloss of glamor, the shimmering photography, costumes and of course the musical score which is threaded throughout with classical motifs. The score, in fact, was supposedly composed by the overworked Max Steiner although his name doesn't appear in the credits. Although a short movie, just barely over an hour, the dreamy, ravishing lighting, shadowing, glowing photography makes this such a super-production you'll want to see it repeatedly. Oh, yes, it does star the radiant Ingrid Bergman making her American movie debut. Leslie Howard, believe it or not, does come alive in this one, a lot more than his wooden Ashely Wilkes of GWTW. For lovers of all ages, and movie buffs of every nationality, Intermezzo, should definitely be on your movie shelf. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Delores Del Rio shines in a lackluster effort
At the time it was filmed, "Bird of Paradise" cost an astronomical 1 million dollars. Producer David Selznick okayed the project and said that he didn't care anything about the plot as long as Delores Del Rio's character was thrown into a volcano at the end. The disregard for a good story line clearly shows and the result is a boring and tepid film highlighted only by actress Delores Del Rio. Although Del Rio's voice is high pitched and she speaks little English here, her beauty and presence holds your attention. The exotic locales are not that impressive in black and white and some underwater footage was taken from another film, "The Most Dangerous Game".

The flip side of the dvd features "The Lady Refuses" a low budget "adult drama" popular in its' day for presenting provocative story lines. This one involves a wealthy man hiring a prostitute (Betty Compton) to seduce his son away from a gold digger that he is dating. In the process, Compton falls in love with her employer instead. Interesting only for a peek at how films got around the censors with sly word play and innuendos.

The dvd quality of both films is very good.

BEAUTIFUL DEL RIO.
Director King Vidor found Richard Walton Tully's play of the same name on which this film is based hopelessly dated and uninteresting. Producer David O. Selznick countered thusly: "I don't care what story you use as long as the title remains intact and Del Rio jumps into a flaming volcano at the finish". The stunningly exotic beauty of Dolores Del Rio made her the first Mexican actress ever to become an international film star. Del Rio had weathered the transition from silents to talkies, but due to her accent and somewhat rudimentary acting ability, her roles had to be carefully chosen; this is probably her most memorable available to the public on video. Filmed on location in Hawaii, the movie's plusses lie in its appeal to the senses, namely in the striking black-and-white photography by Clyde De Vinna - he won an Oscar in 1928 for his work on WHITE SHADOWS IN THE SOUTH SEAS - and Max Steiner's richly evocative background score, designed to illustrate everything from Polynesian native dancing to idyllic, romantic interludes. The film was made rather quickly - stars Del Rio and McCrea had other commitments - and the script was was literally slapped together. BIRD OF PARADISE cost RKO more than a million dollars to make, a high expence in 1932; this lush, albeit antique romantic drama has long been overshadowed by the largely inferior 1951 Technicolor remake with Debra Paget and Louis Jourdan.

Strange, engrossing
Strange and amateurish in many regards, yet fascinating and engrossing in its own way, this David O. Selznick production is the original "Bird of Paradise" -- not the 1950s remake starring Debra Paget and Louis Jourdan, which will make for an interesting comparison if it's ever released on DVD.

The stars of this one, Joel McCrea and Delores Del Rio, make quite a strange pair. Joel seems like a hayseed just off farm (his dialogue is peppered with "huhs?" and "whats?" as he seeks to communicate with the mysterious island beauty, Delores). As for Dolores, she seems to belong in a different, and probably more interesting, movie than this one. And even her fabled nude swim scene is pretty tame and unimpressive.

The movie was filmed on location in 1930s Hawaii. Although the focus always seems a bit off, the scenery is still beautiful -- and a good reminder of what Hawaii must have been like before "they paved paradise and put up a pink hotel (the Sheraton Waikiki by the way)." There's also quite a bit of underwater photography, which is pretty impressive given that this movie was filmed approximately 70 years ago.

Cheap and fun, this "Bird" is worth looking into if you're interested in old movies, and if you'd like to see what David Selznick was up to just a few short years before filming his masterpiece, "Gone with the Wind."

Hope I like it
I have only seen the 1951 remake of Bird of Paradise when I was a lot younger and I loved it then! I have been relentlessly searching for the 1951 version, but to no avail. Apparently, it was never made on VHS or DVD...I just ordered the 1932 version and hope it is like I remembered. I'm sure it will be slightly different than the one with Debra Paget, but if the storyline is the same, I will enjoy it just as much. I would still like the 1951 version. Chip Kaufmann in his review seems to be very knowledgeable in the movie industry even though he thought the other version was "lame". If anyone knows how I can get a copy of the '51 version, I would be very interested.

One film's a turkey, the other's kinda fun
This DVD gathers two little-known, lesser films of the early sound era. "BIRD OF PARADISE" is an incredibly offensive exercise in exoticized racism, charmingly set in the Hawaiian Islands, and featuring a callow young Joel McCrea as the studly white guy who hooks up with the local chieftain's "tabu" daughter (played by Dolores Del Rio, who I find kind of icky). It's the same sort of dazzle-them-with-modern-gadgets-before-they-throw-us-in-the-volcano plot that was explored a few years later in "Waikiki Wedding" (which is a much more charming movie...), here handled clumsily by director King Vidor. (And I'm not being touchie-feelie or overly sensitive in a hyper-PC way, the racism of the script is very explicit, particularly in the dialog, but also in the plotline...) There's a modicum of interesting, reasonably authentic Polynesian dancing (some of which was choreographed, unremarkably, by Busby Berkeley), and the indigenous