Exclusive Story

Exclusive Story is a captivating crime drama film from the year 1936, directed by George B. Seitz and starring prominent actors of the era such as Franchot Tone, Madge Evans, and Stuart Erwin. The film possesses a gripping narrative that deals with elements of corruption, gambling, and journalism, all effortlessly woven into a single plot.

Franchot Tone, known for his charm and debonair style, takes on the role of Timothy Aloysius 'Tim' Higgins, a tenacious newspaper reporter. Throughout the film, he uses his quick wit and gritty determination to uncover the underbelly of society. Contrasting Tone's tough exterior, Madge Evans plays the role of Vivian Palmer, a paper heiress drawn into the scandalous affairs of the city's corrupt underpinnings. She adds a subtle touch of class, sophistication, and an innocence to the plot, making the character memorable and relatable.

Stuart Erwin brilliantly portrays the character of Al Murray, an honest trucker driven into the world of crime. His role effectively highlights the plight of a common man who inadvertently gets caught up in the web of corruption and crime. Erwin's character offers an intriguing edge to the narrative and keeps the viewers engrossed in the story.

The storyline of Exclusive Story revolves around an intense investigation taken up by Tim Higgins, who works for a large newspaper run by Vivian Palmer's father. Following a gruesome and tragic incident, Higgins decides to probe into the clandestine operations of a slot-machine racket run by unscrupulous, corrupt individuals. He strives to unravel the intricate layers of corruption, which have begun to seep into the very core of society.

Driving the plot further, we see the duo of Higgins and Palmer working together in this intriguing chase. Vivian Palmer, though an heiress, is no typical damsel in distress but an able ally to Higgins in his quest for the truth. Their chemistry brings an engaging romantic angle to the otherwise grim plot, offering a pleasant respite in the tense unfolding drama.

Meanwhile, Al Murray, initially just a trucker, falls prey to the sinister plot and is dragged into the woeful pit of crime. How he navigates the intricate web of crime and the shady world forms a significant chunk of the narrative, striking a chord of empathy within the viewers.

The plot's bursts of comic relief, primarily delivered through Higgins' quick wit and cheeky banter, lighten the otherwise intense mood to keep you invested in the story. The film does an incredible job of maintaining a fast-paced narrative while handling serious themes with intricate, thoughtful dialogues, leaving you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Stuart Erwin adds another depth to the film, depicting a character with a strong moral compass in a world where it lacks. The portrayal of his character skillfully highlights the struggle to maintain integrity and honesty amid such corruption-driven surroundings.

Exclusive Story perfectly captures the atmosphere of the 1930s, bringing to screen the glamorous yet often ruthless world of newspapers, glamorous parties, and dangerous gangsters. The director, George B. Seitz, has skilfully constructed a film that and blends glamour with dark underpinnings, allowing the story to unfold in a manner that feels real and believable to the audience.

The film's cinematography excellently intermingles the cozy opulence of high society and the grim, unpolished reality of crime-ridden areas, portraying the stark contrast of the world within the movie. The climactic scenes driven by high tension and suspense are flawlessly executed and keep the viewers hooked till the very end.

All in all, Exclusive Story takes you on a rollercoaster ride filled with intrigue and suspense, reflecting on social issues along with a hint of romance. The film’s insightfulscript, brilliant performances by the cast, and a gripping storyline makes it a must-watch for classic movie lovers. Despite being a film of the 1930s, its themes remarkably resonate with contemporary issues, making it enjoyable for today's audience as well.