Damaged Lives

Damaged Lives, an intriguing and sensational pre-Code drama, was released in 1933 and stars Diane Sinclair, Lyman Williams, and George Irving. Directed by Edgar G. Ulmer, this motion picture is renowned for its audacious take on complex and taboo topics, often sparking controversy due to its stark and undiluted representation of the societal issues of the time.

The narrative revolves around the protagonist, Donny Bradley, played by Lyman Williams. Donny is widely regarded as the epitome of an ideal gentleman — a very relatable character often observed in realist literature and cinema. He's engaged to the charming Joan, portrayed by Diane Sinclair, the daughter of the shipbuilding magnate, Mr. John Bradley, played by Harry Myers.

In stark contrast to typical movies of this era, Damaged Lives unravels a disconcerting issue with a riveting plot. Donny, due to a series of unfortunate circumstances and ill-fated decisions, gets dragged into a vague and uncertain world. His engagement with Joan, which always seemed destined to culminate in a beautiful marriage, suddenly hangs in the balance.

The plot thickens when Donny attends a party where he partakes in indulgences that lead him astray from his committed relationship, a move that proves calamitous. This party, which initially had all the makings of a jovial gathering, soon changes Donny, Joan, and their families' lives dramatically and leaves them to navigate the repercussions of Donny's one night of reckless behavior.

As an intriguing twist to the narrative, the plot introduces a young woman, Elise Cooper, acted by Charlotte Merriam. In an unfortunate encounter at the party, Elise and Donny's lives become brutally entwined, setting off a chain of events that drastically impacts both their lives and Joan's. The movie, subsequently, transforms into an emotionally-charged rollercoaster as the characters grapple with the consequences of their actions.

Simultaneously, George Irving brings a commendable performance as a venerable doctor, whose wisdom and assertiveness are critical to the plot. His character not only guides the main characters but also helps educate the audience about the societal issues at hand, making the story even more engaging and educating.

Critics appreciated Damaged Lives for its audacious, realistic, mindful, and didactic approach to a subject generally considered taboo in the era of its release. The performances of the leading stars were praised for giving life to the multifaceted characters. Diane Sinclair, embodying the innocent love and despair of Joan, shows an exceptionally touching performance. Similarly, Lyman Williams' performance as Donny is compelling and spontaneous, making the audience empathize with his character.

Besides its engaging storyline and commendable performances, the film also stood out for its atmospheric cinematography. The intelligent use of shadows, light, and framing adds layers to the film's narrative, complementing the movie's mood and enhancing its storytelling.

The director, Edgar G. Ulmer, presents a thought-provoking picture that critiques society's paradoxical tendencies - often avoiding discussions on critical issues, yet bearing the brunt of such avoidance. Thus, while Damaged Lives lays bare the consequences of unsound choices, it also brings to the fore the importance of education and communication.

Damaged Lives, therefore, is not merely a drama. It is a bold statement on societal norms, attitudes and consequences of ignorance. It's a compelling movie that underscores the significance of acknowledging and addressing grave issues, regardless of their controversial or taboo status in society.

Despite the passage of time, Damaged Lives remains relevant by offering a timeless lesson on responsibility and the impact of our choices. Its capacity to stir a conversation and evoke contemplation, giving it a unique place in the canon of classic cinema. For lovers of insightful drama and admirers of classic cinematography, Damaged Lives is a must-watch.