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• I felt Colman's pain

  • mvedder
  • 9/12/08

  Watch Colman's eyes when he is seduced by the young girl. He is clearly conflicted and expresses it brilliantly. I've always liked Colman-- especially in Random Harvest, but sometimes thought he was a bit overdramatic. I have reconsidered my opinion of his acting, and wish I had watched him more closely in the past. This is an interesting film by today's standards, as we feel sympathy for a man who has committed adultry and betrayed his wife. I think only Ronald Colman could accomplish this.

• Ronald Colman underrated!

  • Rosemarie
  • 9/12/08

  I expected a rather classic soaper, but was surprised by the multidimensional aspects of the story, especially Colman's. His performance was subtle and nuanced, a sensitive man of honor, clearly tempted by the vulnerability of Phyllis Barry's character. I actually found Colman and Barry much more interesting than the usual "noble wife" character portrayed by Kay Francis. Also, despite the TVG rating, a real pre-coder. The adultery situation is portrayed compassionately, as is the young woman, who has had sexual experience, but is shown as vulnerable and young, but hardly a "tramp." Also interesting -- Francis's sister in the story has the luxury of going to Europe to avoid scandal; this shopgirl's options are limited. So, class consciousness is clearly present.

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