Ever Since Eve

Ever Since Eve is an American romantic comedy film produced by Warner Bros. in 1937 that readily captivates its audience. The film is directed with great expertise by Lloyd Bacon, starring the renowned Marion Davies who endears herself to audiences with her vibrant performance. Alongside Davies, the film also stars Robert Montgomery and Frank McHugh, who add commendable performances to the silver screen, enhancing the experience for moviegoers with their undeniable chemistry and perfect comedic timing.

The film hinges around the character of Marge Winton, played with zest by Marion Davies. Marge is a smart, attractive, and ambitious young woman who harbors dreams of climbing up the professional ladder in the then male-dominated corporate world. However, she often finds herself encumbered by the relentless attention and advances of her male colleagues and cannot get past her typist job. Out of frustration and a persistent need to thrive professionally, Marge opts for an unusual solution. She decides to 'uglify' herself by assuming the guise of an unattractive spinster to ward off unwarranted attention and concentrate on her work. Davies’ portrayal of Marge is a mix of humor and sweet sorrow that leaves the audience in splits while also invoking a sense of empathy for her.

Robert Montgomery brilliantly portrays Freddie, a hard-to-please author seemingly cursed with writer's block, searching for an unassuming secretary. Much to his surprise, Freddie’s path crosses with Marge, in her spinster's disguise. Unaware of her true beauty, he hires her, thinking she fits the bill perfectly for his distraction-free work environment. Montgomery’s comedic flair is on full show throughout his interactions with Davies, and he effortlessly instills his character with charm and likeability.

Frank McHugh, with his earnest portrayal of Marge’s friend and neighbor, Peter, adds elements of sympathy and support towards her experimental journey. Peter is invariably privy to Marge's plans and offers supportive companionship throughout. His comedic antics serve as a laugh riot yet are also undeniably heartwarming.

As this quirky tale of romance and struggle unfolds, the film explores themes of gender roles, workplace ethics, societal expectations, and romance in a light-hearted manner. The script is adept and witty, providing plenty of hilarious moments that intertwine seamlessly with the more profound elements of the narrative. The humor doesn’t come off as forced or trivial but rather effortlessly flows with the narrative, enhancing the storyline with its easy charm.

The cinematography in Ever Since Eve is striking, making full use of the black-and-white medium to create an atmosphere vivid with nostalgia and timeless charm. The set design conveys the essence of 1930s New York, accurately adding depth to the narrative. The costumes designed for Marge’s transformation are noteworthy for their ugliness, designed to provoke laughs from viewers while also providing a bittersweet commentary on the struggles faced by the ambitious women of the era.

The director, Lloyd Bacon, deserves praise for weaving together comedy, romance, and social commentary into a cohesive, entertaining narrative. His sharp sense of timing, the natural flow of the storyline, and the palpable chemistry between the lead characters make Ever Since Eve a standout film among its contemporaries.

In conclusion, Ever Since Eve is a vibrant, wit-infused, and charming romantic comedy from Hollywood's Golden Age. It showcases a sprightly Marion Davies in a layered and memorable role, supported by the charismatic Robert Montgomery and the good-humored Frank McHugh. Balancing meaningful societal commentary with refreshing bursts of humor, the film resonates with moviegoers even today due to its heartfelt narrative, strong performances, and adept script writing. Ever Since Eve is a delightful cinematic artifact from 1930s Hollywood, inviting viewers to step back in time and follow the unconventional adventures of its endearing protagonist.