Red Headed Woman

Red Headed Woman is a pre-Code era movie released in 1932, which is renowned for its daring, provocative storyline and its iconic star - the blond bombshell, Jean Harlow. Masterfully directed by Jack Conway and penned by Anita Loos, it's a unique blend of social drama and seductive comedy that beautifully encapsulates the mores and lifestyle of the early 1930s.

Jean Harlow, in what is considered one of her most memorable roles, portrays Lil Andrews, a young, ambitious girl from the wrong side of the tracks, desiring a life of wealth and the perks that come along with it. Using her alluring charm, quick-witted savviness, and seductive appeal, Lil is determined to claw her way to the top, no matter the cost or whom she hurts along the way.

Lil's primary target is William 'Bill' Legendre Jr., a well-heeled and well-respected businessman, adeptly played by Chester Morris. Although married to the virtuous and kind-hearted Irene (Leila Hyams), Bill succumbs to Lil's relentless advances, soon finding himself embroiled in a scandalous affair that sends shockwaves throughout the idyllic, high-society circles in which he moves.

On the other hand, we have an older generation represented by Charles B. Gaerste, a successful businessman himself and a momentous turn by Lewis Stone. Gaerste becomes another pawn in Lil's ambitious game as she uses her manipulative skills to conquer him for her own gain.

The movie has an exciting range of secondary characters that add to the flamboyant palette of sophisticated 1930s society. Una Merkel plays Sally, Lil’s gleeful accomplice, who supports her friend's unscrupulous plans with noticeable fervor. While Sally is not the driving force behind Lil’s ascent, her character provides much needed comedic relief. The performances by all these actors are executed with aplomb and play significant roles in moving the narrative along.

Red Headed Woman beautifully presents a portrait of America's class distinctions and social mobility at the time. Lil Andrews embodies the aspirations of ordinary women who are daring enough to buck tradition in their quest for upward mobility, albeit by using rather unorthodox methods. Bill, on the other hand, represents the often hypocritical high society that glorifies appearances over substance. It’s a journey into the realm of desire, deceit, ambition, and struggle.

The screenplay is brilliantly crafted by Anita Loos, showcasing her knack for creating complex characters and provocative dialogue. Loos brings to life the dichotomy of rigid social norms and the also rampant disregard for them, highlighting the intriguing underbelly of that historical period. Jack Conway directs the movie with finesse, building suspense and keeping the pace brisk without losing sight of the narrative's dramatic underpinnings.

Cinematically, the film showcases the charm of the 1930s Hollywood style. Cinematographer Harold Rosson employs romantic soft-focus techniques and elegant compositions that capture the extravagant world of Lil's aspirations while contrastingly also the mundanity of her reality. The costume design by Adrian is swoony and glamorous, perfectly conveying the transformative journey of Harlow’s characters from a working-class woman to high society’s most talked-about enigma.

Harlow herself shines in her role, infusing Lil with a vivacious sensibility and cunning wit. Her portrayal is not onesided, but rather fraught with nuances that reflect the desperation, cunning, and manipulative nature of her character. She makes the audiences almost sympathize with her as she navigates her world of deception and triumph.

In summary, Red Headed Woman is an engrossing drama, tinged with both provocation and satirical wit. It showcases Jean Harlow in one of her most memorable roles and remains a testament to the unbridled charm and allure of classic Hollywood. It is not just a film but a cultural landmark that showcases the decadent glamour of the 1930s, a time when Hollywood was redefining narratives and pushing the boundaries of storytelling through its cinema.