Ladies They Talk About

Ladies They Talk About (1933) is a crime drama film directed by Howard Bretherton and William Keighley. The movie is an adaptation of the 1932 French play of the same name, written by André Birabeau. It stars Barbara Stanwyck, Joan Blondell, and Roger Pryor. The story begins with Jean (played by Barbara Stanwyck), a stunningly beautiful and fiery blonde, who is on her way to join her lover, Jack (played by Preston Foster), after a brief separation due to her imprisonment. However, upon arrival, Jack is nowhere to be found, and she soon discovers that he has been involved in a botched bank heist. The gang, which includes Jack, is being pursued by the authorities, and Jean finds herself caught in the middle. As Jean navigates her way through the underworld, she encounters a mysterious woman named Vivian (played by Joan Blondell) who has just escaped from the same prison where Jean was held. The two women quickly form a bond, and Vivian becomes obsessed with finding Jack. However, Vivian is a master manipulator, using her wit and charm to convince Jean that they should team up and find Jack together. Despite initial reservations, Jean agrees to join forces with Vivian, and they concoct a plan to break Jack out of prison. As they delve deeper into the underworld, the two women encounter a cast of colorful characters, including a smooth-talking lawyer (played by Donald Cook) and a bumbling but lovable detective (played by Lyle Talbot). Throughout the movie, the characters' complex relationships and motivations are expertly woven together. Jean's love for Jack is contrasted with her growing admiration for Vivian, who seems to embody the freedom and independence that Jean desires. Meanwhile, Vivian's obsession with Jack stems from a dark past, and her actions become increasingly erratic as the story unfolds. As the breakout plot unfolds, Jean and Vivian face numerous obstacles, including run-ins with the police and rival gangsters. The tension builds to a thrilling climax, where the two women face off against the authorities in a daring heist. In the end, Jean must confront the consequences of her actions and decide whether to follow her heart or her desire for freedom. One of the standout aspects of Ladies They Talk About is its portrayal of women in the 1930s. The film features a strong cast of female characters, each with their own distinct personality and agency. Barbara Stanwyck, in particular, shines as the complex and multifaceted Jean, bringing depth and nuance to her character. The movie's direction is also noteworthy, with a keen eye for atmosphere and style. The cinematography captures the gritty texture of the city streets and the lavish opulence of the gangsters' hideouts. The score is equally effective, incorporating jazz and swing rhythms to create a sense of energy and momentum. Overall, Ladies They Talk About is a gripping crime drama that explores themes of love, loyalty, and the complexities of the female experience. With its strong performances, clever direction, and historical significance, it remains a compelling viewing experience to this day.