Borrowed Wives

Borrowed Wives, a comedy drama from the early thirties is a captivating classic that speaks to the heart of the cultural attitudes of its time. The movie, directed by Frank R. Strayer, is a delightful blend of humor and romance, characterizing a brilliant example of the Prohibition-era filmmaking. The film features prominent actors of the era such as Rex Lease, Vera Reynolds, Nita Martan, Paul Hurst and Sam Hardy.

The story revolves around the lead character Peter Foley, portrayed by the dashing Rex Lease, a young man who inherits a fortune. The plot twists begin when the unexpected sections in the will of his late uncle stipulate some seemingly peculiar conditions to access the inheritance. The will dictates that Peter must be married to gain control of his dead uncle's estate to prevent it from falling into the hands of unscrupulous relations. However, Peter is not only single but deeply in love with a beautiful woman named Alice Blake, played by the enchanting Vera Reynolds.

Deeply mired in heap of debt, Peter is compelled to dive headlong into a marriage of convenience to secure his uncle's fortune. The story develops further with a tangle of misunderstandings, mistaken identities, and comic mishaps as Peter tries to balance his spontaneous marriage with his blooming love for Alice.

Apart from the amusing plotline, the movie gives an interesting glimpse into the social mores and lifestyles of its era. The economic hardships of the Great Depression were acutely felt during the time this movie was made and the need for money and stability forms the backdrop of this captivating story. It reflects how societal pressures, family obligations, and economic necessities could pressurize individuals into making choices that deviate from conventional paths or their personal desires.

Rex Lease is remarkable with his robust performance as the young lovelorn benefactor who demonstrates wit and charm, but also a gentle vulnerability. His character is both relatable and engaging, providing viewers with an enjoyable blend of comedy and drama. Vera Reynolds also gives an enchanting performance as Alice, Peter’s girlfriend who finds herself stuck in the tricky situation created by the stipulations of the will. Her sparkling presence emanates the charm typical of female protagonists of the golden era of Hollywood.

Among notable performances, Paul Hurst with his strong screen presence does a fantastic job in enlivening his role. The noteworthy tension and chemistry among the cast members add an additional layer to the film, strengthening the storyline. Comedy is frequently threaded through scenes of the movie, often times thanks to the misadventures sparked by the unusual stipulations of the will. These give the film its legendary status as an entertaining romantic comedy.

The movie's cinematography, coordinated by Arthur Reed, is impressive, capturing the essence of the 1930s and giving viewers a genuine feel of the time period. The dialogs are well-written and carry the story smoothly. Moreover, the screenplay is tight and doesn't stray from its main premise, ensuring a steady tempo of the narrative.

Although made in the infancy of sound cinema, Borrowed Wives is not without its technical elegance. The film’s use of sound, camera angles and set design come together to create an authentic picture of the period it takes place in. The speakeasies, formal dresses, immaculate suits, antiquated cars, and deco-inspired buildings are important elements which give this film such a special aesthetic charm.

In essence, Borrowed Wives is a rare gem for those who enjoy classic films. It encapsulates the cultural and social dynamics of the early 20th century, while delivering a delightful blend of comedy, drama, and romance. It serves as a testament to the undying art of storytelling that transcends time, and continues to captivate audiences even after nine decades of its original release.