Lonely Wives

Lonely Wives, a 1931 pre-code comedy film, brings an exceptional display of wit and humor, carefully intertwined with complex storytelling, vibrant characters, and seamless switching of roles. Directed by Russell Mack and featuring a star-studded cast consisting of Edward Everett Horton, Esther Ralston, and Laura La Plante, this early Hollywood feature looks into the themes of marital fidelity, mistaken identities, and the intricacy of human relationships.

The film revolves around Richard 'Dickie' Smith, portrayed by an ever-impressive Edward Everett Horton, a prosperous and mild-mannered lawyer known for his staunch approach towards work, his dedication to his wife, and his assumption as a pillar of morality. However, Dickie's prim and proper life gets a peculiar twist as the movie introduces his whimsical alter ego: the uninhibited and ecstatically charming lookalike, Felix the 'Great Zero', a stage actor who bears an uncanny resemblance to Dickie, and a character in which Horton truly shines, showcasing his versatility and on-screen charisma.

As the film unfolds, the narrative allows Edward Everett Horton to channel two distinct characters, dramatically opposed in essence. The audience is treated to a comedy fest, as these two personas causes waves of confusion, led by a convoluted plot of mistaken identities, intentional deception, and humorous chaos.

Esther Ralston, portraying Madeleine Smith, the doting yet somewhat neglected wife of Richard, delicately navigates her role, injecting it with grace and subtlety. Her performance brilliantly captures the nuances of a loving yet lonely wife who yearns for her husband's attention amidst his legal pursuits. Ralston's elegant charm and sheer acting prowess add layers to the plot, aiding the narrative progression while weaving a realistic portrayal of a woman who, while married, often finds herself alone.

Laura La Plante as Kitty Minter punctuates this comedic drama with her inviting presence, playing a free-spirited woman who, despite carrying a torch for Richard 'Dickie' Smith, finds herself attracted to the flamboyant persona of Felix the 'Great Zero'. La Plante’s vivacious character adds a delightful twist to the plot, her coy flirtations and evident fascination with both of Horton's characters enlivens the comedy, and adds to the complexity of the amorous ties in the film.

The intelligently crafted storyline of Lonely Wives seamlessly shifts between comedy and drama, creating a wonderful mix of humor, romance, and poignant reflections on relationship dynamics. The film is not only entertaining with its clever dialogues and humorous proceedings but also manages to dig deep into the emotions and insecurities of its main characters, treating the audience to a perfectly balanced plate of laughter and introspection.

The film markings a prominent visual style of its own, reflecting the aesthetic grandeur of early cinema while capturing the essence of the era's comedic elements. It's punctuated by society parties, grand interiors, and luxurious costumes that reflect the social standing and lifestyle of its characters, further enhancing the overall viewing experience.

With impeccable performances from its cast, Lonely Wives serves a stunning display of the comedic timing of Edward Everett Horton who successfully shoulders a double role with great finesse. Esther Ralston and Laura La Plante provide solid support, their performances resonating well with the audience, ensuring the viewers are engrossed and entertained.

Lonely Wives stands tall in the pantheon of early comedy, a movie filled with laughs, romance, and an intricate plot that's bound to keep viewers engaged till the end. The film's overall brilliance in storytelling combined with its splendid performances earmark it as a classic gem from the early days of Hollywood that is indeed worth a watch.

In all its essence, Lonely Wives extends an offer to delve into a realm of a delightful cinematic experience blending comedy, romance, and drama, with memorable performances and an engaging narrative. Devoted fans of early Hollywood, or those tracing the progression of comedic cinema, should not miss this classic masterpiece of 1931.