His Private Secretary

His Private Secretary is a 1933 comedy-drama film directed by Phil Whitman. The film features legendary actor John Wayne in one of his early roles, along with co-stars Evalyn Knapp and Reginald Barlow, whose performances have made this film a staple among pre-World War II classics.

The film gives us a glimpse of John Wayne’s youthful on-screen charisma, far from the cowboy stereotype he later came to embody. Wayne plays the lead role of Dick Wallace, a playboy who is the carefree son of wealthy businessman John Wallace, portrayed by Reginald Barlow. John is your stereotypical tough business magnate who believes in the traditional work ethic and is disillusioned by his son's reckless lifestyle.

Evalyn Knapp stars as Marion Hall, the wholesome and astute granddaughter of an old minister whom young Dick falls for. Knapp's performance presents a strong, independent woman whose personality fights against the submissive roles commonly portrayed in the era. Her character stands out as she matches wits with Wayne's character, making their interactions full of humor and charm.

The film begins with Dick, who after a series of reckless escapades, is forced by his father to settle down and join the family business. He meets Marion during a visit to his family's country club, and the two strike up a romance. However, any potential marital bliss is hindered by Marion's grandfather's prejudice against the rich, as well as the disapproval of Dick’s father, who hasn’t quite taken a liking to Marion.

In an unexpected twist, Dick's father hires Marion as his private secretary without knowing she is his son's love interest. This classic movie plot device brings the story veering from the romantic to the comedic, as young love and office politics start to intertwine.

Marion, having accepted the job, finds herself having to navigate her position while keeping her relationship a secret – a hilarious set of mishaps and miscommunications abound. Meanwhile, her interactions with the stern Mr. Wallace unwittingly plough the road to mutual respect and understanding.

As Marion starts to breach the rigid expectations of her employer, the viewers are treated to a display of delightful 1930s office banter. The dynamic between Barlow and Knapp, as the grumpy boss and the spirited secretary, respectively, brings most of the comedy to the narrative.

Much of the drama comes from Dick's attempts to demonstrate to his father that he's more than just a reckless playboy and is, in fact, capable of maturity and responsibility. Wayne convincingly transitions his character from carefreeness to gravity, illustrating the layered facets of Dick's personality.

His Private Secretary is a wholesome yet slightly unconventional romantic comedy for its time, with hints of societal and class commentary. The contrasts between the rich and the poor, the young and the old, and the modern and the traditional, are all put on display throughout the film.

In some ways, the film can be seen as a turning point in Wayne's career, with Dick Wallace showcasing a softer side of his acting capability contrasting from his usual tough, macho image. Moreover, Evalyn Knapp's Marion Hall proudly steps out of the shadow of the typical damsel in distress role into a more independent, assertive figure, a refreshing perspective during that era.

Despite being produced over eight decades ago, the themes that His Private Secretary explored remain relevant today - the quest for personal growth, the pressures of societal expectations, the class divide, and the eternal charm of love.

If you are a fan of early classic films, a true 'blue' John Wayne fan, or a student of film history, you'll find His Private Secretary a stimulating watch. It not only serves as an encapsulation of early Hollywood aesthetics but stands out for its humorous screenplay, nuanced performances, and its engaging mix of romance, drama, and comedy. Overall, it is a vintage gem that provides amusement and nostalgic charm, transcending the boundaries of time.