Goin' To Town

Goin' To Town is a captivating film that made its debut in 1935. It features Hollywood legends Mae West, Paul Cavanagh, and Gilbert Emery as part of its ensemble cast, and is helmed by the talented director, Alexander Hall. This cinematic piece from the golden age of Hollywood doesn't fail to deliver the comedic charm and romantic tension that was a part of many films from this era.

In the leading role, we have Mae West, a well-established actress known for her sharp wit, vivacious presence, and distinctive vocal style. She portrays Cleo Borden, the protagonist of the movie, and executes the role with an engaging blend of vivacity and sensuous charm. Her performance not only adds humor to the narrative but also brings in an element of sophistication, making it an enjoyable experience for the audience.

Cleo Borden is a saloon owner and a former entertainer who is suddenly thrust into wealth after marrying a rich cattle rancher, Edward Carrington (Monroe Owsley). Following his untimely passing, the naive Cleo navigates her newfound wealth and ventures into the high society. Her journey from rags to riches forms the backbone of the movie plot of Goin' To Town. It sheds light on her transformation, influenced by the societal norms of the rich and the pressures of maintaining appearances in the high society. In her quest to prove herself, Cleo also finds herself in a love triangle that entangles Carrington's attorney Fay Oglethorpe (Gilbert Emery) and dashing British man-about-town, Ivor Deverill (Paul Cavanagh).

Mae West's character is often faced with considerable challenges as she tries to adjust to a new lavishing lifestyle. These situations provide numerous comedic moments throughout the film. She is an extravagant yet bold woman, unafraid to confront high society's hypocrisy. West portrays her character expertly, emanating allure and confidence in every frame. Her delivery of one-liners and quick witted responses had become her signature performance by the time this film rolled around and didn't disappoint here either.

Paul Cavanagh plays Ivor Deverill, a sophisticated and dapper British aristocrat. His character portrays a touch of the classic bad boy archetype but also endows a delicate sense of class and poise. The contrast between the rough-around-the-edges Cleo Borden and the culturally refined Deverill has been well explored in the film, creating romantic tension and conflict with ample moments of comedy and drama.

Gilbert Emery as Fay Oglethorpe presents an impressive performance as a dutiful attorney to the late Carrington. His character's interaction with West's Cleo adds another dimension to the film as she learns to navigate her new life with his guidance.

Even though it incorporates elements of a creative romantic pursuit, 'Goin' To Town' sets itself apart with the emphasis on Cleo Borden's upward mobility and her transformation from a common entertainer to a wealthy socialite. The film brilliantly capitalizes on West's vibrant on-screen personality and her skill to effectively deliver comedy and drama at the same time. Whether she’s wooing the gentlemen, challenging the societal norms, or standing her ground against a room full of snobbish elites, West's Cleo Borden shines brightly every time she's on the screen.

Goin' To Town captures the spirit of the 1930s cinema with its timeless humor, engaging story arc, charming romance, and unforgettable performances, especially from Mae West. It is truly a film that cannot be forgotten when discussing Hollywood classics from this era. With a script that is well-knit, characters that come to life with phenomenal performances, and a storyline filled with humor and romance, Goin' To Town is indeed a unique cinematic experience that, despite its historical inaccessibility, continues to resonate with audiences. The movie is a must-watch, not only for enthusiasts of classic cinema but also for anyone seeking a healthy dose of humor, romance, and a glimpse into the veins of societal boundaries and expectations of the 1930s.