Clear All Wires!

Clear All Wires! is a 1933 pre-Code American comedy film that creates a humorous portrayal of the news business, bolstered by the sparkling performances of Lee Tracy, Benita Hume, and Una Merkel. The film is based on a play written by Bella and Sam Spewack, and directed by George Hill.

The story centers around Buckley Thomas (played by Lee Tracy), a frenetic and ambitious news reporter for United Press News out to get the latest scoop in the cutthroat world of journalism. He's a hustler dedicated to his craft, racing against the clock, and seeking any means necessary to capture exclusive breaking news. Tracy carries this role masterfully, stirring up trouble, manipulating circumstances, and cleverly engaging in rapid-fire dialogue that leaves viewers alternately laughing and gasping for breath.

Accompanying Buckley in his sensational reportage is his loyal secretary Dolly (Una Merkel), who endearingly puts up with his incessant demands and madcap antics. Merkel brings a spirited performance to Dolly, who, despite the chaos, stands by her boss, offering wry commentary that often serves as the comedic backbone in scenes fraught with urgency and stress.

Adding a dose of intrigue and glamour to the story is the enigmatic and beautiful Russian princess, Natasha (Benita Hume). Hume delivers an elegant performance, as her character becomes a pivotal point of interest in the plot. With rumors of a royal scandal brewing and a regal connection that could make for a great news story, Natasha draws Buckley's attention and significantly raises the stakes in his journalistic adventures.

The setting of the film primarily moves between the corporate hi-jinks of the newsroom to the tumultuous political landscapes of Europe. This backdrop lends to the fast-paced plot, as efforts are made to transmit global news back to the metropolitan center of America.

Secondary characters, including the frustrated boss at United Press and a rival reporter out to undercut Buckley, add further texture to the plot and intensify the competitive spirit of the film. Consistently, these characters find themselves caught up in the whirlwind that is Buckley Thomas, intensifying the comedic energy and the film's dissection of the newspaper industry.

The screenplay of Clear All Wires! is an engaging blend of comedy and drama, offering an interesting critique of the news industry's machinations. This mid-1930s film reflects the era's fascination with journalism and the evolving revolution in mass communication. It gives viewers a peek into the rapid tempo that accompanies the life of a reporter, a world where being first with the scoop defines one's worth.

However, the film is not just about the madcap news world; it balances this out by delving into each character's personal lives and relationships, giving them a remarkable depth and dimension. The conversations between the characters are often spirited, interspersed with clever quips, creating a lively interaction that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

While Tracy is the leading presence, Clear All Wires! stands out for its ensemble cast and their dynamic interactions. From unwavering loyalty to scandalous power plays, the characters in Clear All Wires! make the movie an enjoyable romp through the exhilarating and unpredictable world of journalism in the 1930s.

The film, complete with newsroom drama, royal scandal, and the quick-witted Buckley, is high-energy from start to finish. Clear All Wires! is a movie that keeps audiences engaged with its dizzying plot twists and turns, slapstick humor, and the enjoyable chemistry between the lead characters. Its brilliant dialogue, vibrant performances, and portrayal of the 1930s journalistic era make it a memorable piece of golden-age cinema.

Clear All Wires! is a film that showcases a little-explored dimension of journalism while offering a hearty serving of comedy. It's a fantastic classic for fans of vintage cinema and those who enjoy a good laugh intertwined with some old-fashioned intrigue and drama. Whether it's for Lee Tracy's magnetic performance or the movie's unique take on the news industry, Clear All Wires! promises a viewing experience worth the time.