Ladies They Talk About

Ladies They Talk About is a gritty Pre-Code drama released in 1933 directed by Howard Bretherton and William Keighley. The film features the magnetic Barbara Stanwyck, charming Preston Foster, and suave Lyle Talbot, who all offer exceptional performances that breathe life into the captivating narrative.

The narrative is built around Stanwyck's character, Nan Taylor, a compelling woman with a knack for getting herself into complex situations. Nan is a compelling blend of femininity, strength, and wit, operating as a performer in a male-dominated gang of bank robbers. Her loyalty to the group is strong, but her intelligence and charm are ever-present, allowing her to navigate between the precarious world of crime and the norms of society.

The film opens with a thrilling bank heist, a daring move that quickly lands Nan in the hands of the police. Nan, however, isn't quick to accept defeat, and endeavours to utilise her seductive charm to manipulate her situation. By feigning innocence, she draws the attention of David Slade, performed by Foster, a radio evangelist turned politician who uses his sway to rescue Nan from her predicament. The plan, however, doesn't unfold as smoothly as expected.

Preston Foster as David Slade delivers an impressive portrayal of the crusading politician. Slade is a man of contradictions, bred from a troubled past yet striving for virtue through his position in politics and society. However, his attraction to Nan places him at odds with his moral compass, complicating the plot and deepening his character's complexity.

Lyle Talbot, adding intricacies to the story, portrays Don, Nan’s confidante, and the brains behind the bank heist gang. Don’s chivalrous love for Nan adds a layer of emotional depth, creating a complex love triangle between Nan, Don, and Slade.

At its core, Ladies They Talk About is about women navigating a world dominated by men. In an unforgiving society, these women employ their resilience, cunning, and femininity to play the hand they're dealt. The movie lifts the veil on life in a women's prison, providing narrative detail that is both engaging and enlightening.

Stanwyck, an iconic figure in Hollywood, immortalises Nan Taylor with excellent character development. Her portrayal of Nan's tenacious spirit and resilience in the male-dominated society of the 1930s is compellingly realistic.

From the visceral prison scenes to the intricate relationships, Ladies They Talk About propels its narrative through complex characters, each holding their secrets and motivations. The film proves yet again that when it comes to riveting scenes, thrilling plot twists and engulfing storytelling, the early age of Hollywood films stands par with contemporaries.

The movie, while initially marketed as part of the emerging "women's prison" film genre, breaks the norms of its contemporaries, stretching the genre's conventions. Its focus on Nan's experiences and the character's dimensional depiction is where the film truly shines: it's not just a crime drama; it's a deeply personal, character-driven narrative with nuanced themes of love, betrayal, and redemption.

Ladies They Talk About presents a seamless blend of drama, crime, romance and the grim reality of incarcerated women, while laced with feminist undertones. Featuring exceptional acting performances, a compelling storyline, and a myriad of twists, the movie leaves an indelible impression.

In essence, the film holds a mirror up to society, reflecting the very real struggle of women grappling with constraint and prejudice. The exploration of defiance, survival, and redemption in an environment both socially and physically confining unfolds a riveting saga that calls out for attention.

A film of its time with timeless themes, Ladies They Talk About is an essential viewing for vintage Hollywood enthusiasts, Barbara Stanwyck fans, or anyone who appreciates thriving narratives with complex characters. Notwithstanding the era of its creation, the film remains a compelling watch that will take the audiences on a cinematic journey back in time. It's a captivating testament to filmmaking of the early 1930s' Hollywood.