IMDB link: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0022276/?ref_=fn_tt_tt_15
IMDB rating: 6,7
Director: Clarence Brown
Main Cast: Joan Crawford, Clark Gable, Wallace Ford, Richard 'Skeets' Gallagher, Marjorie White, John Miljan
"Clarence Brown creates an effective melodrama that interestingly examines some of the social mores and topical concerns of the 1930's. The position of women in society is the key theme addressed by the competent director, with Crawford's portrayal being both realistic and touching. Crawford makes great use of the close-up to express inner thoughts and feelings, suggesting a whole range of emotions when she overhears Gable speak of his reluctance towards marriage. Crawford is the film's best asset and she does some great work here, providing the most memorable scenes in the picture.
The film's other triumph is the slick narrative economy employed by Brown. Possessed clocks in at around 73 minutes and is a very efficiently-produced film. MGM's trademark opulent production design suits the penthouse scenes well, with Crawford looking terrific in jewels and well-cut Adrian dresses. Cinematographer Oliver T. Marsh provides some inspired visual style in an early scene that sees Marian standing in awe at the luxury and splendor passing by her on the train. The juxtaposition of Marian's two lifestyles in this short sequence is a nice effect.
The film is let down by Gable's distinct blandness and an average script. Gable conspicuously lacks presence alongside Crawford in their scenes and his dialogue delivery is very wooden here but Crawford manages to cover for him in their romantic scenes, putting in a top-drawer 'cover all bases' performance.
Based on a 1920 play by Edgar Selwyn, Possessed had been filmed previously in 1924 as The Mirage, a vehicle for silent star Florence Vidor."
No comments:
Post a Comment