She Done Him Wrong

She Done Him Wrong is an unforgettable pre-code classic from 1933 that blends sparkling comedy with keen observations of gender relations and class conflict. Starring the inimitable Mae West in her second screen role and a young Cary Grant, this Paramount production is a lively entertainment.

The film is based on Mae West's play Diamond Lil, and its plot essentially revolves around the flamboyant nightlife activities of West's character, Lady Lou, who owns a saloon in the Bowery district of New York City in the early 1890s. Dressed in extravagant costumes, lavishly decorated with jewelry, and armed with a sharp tongue, Lady Lou enthralls her clientele and manipulates the men who orbit around her with her charisma, wit and sexuality.

Cary Grant plays the role of the mysterious, charming Captain Cummings, a Salvation Army officer who appears to be more than what he seems. Cummings' frequent rendezvous to the saloon raises eyebrows, as people start suspecting his true intentions. Throughout the film, he finds himself engaging in a mental skirmish with Lady Lou while trying to maintain his cover. Therefore, his character effectively brings a lot of suspense into the plot.

The film further brings to life the vibrant underworld of the saloon, populated by a host of memorable characters – the jealous former lover, Chick, portrayed by Owen Moore, the imprisoned thief, Russian Rita (Rafaela Ottiano), a dangerous thug, Serge (Gilbert Roland), and the good-hearted but dim-witted doorman Gus, rendered by Noah Beery.

She Done Him Wrong excels in its screenplay, offering rich, atmospheric dialogue tinged with audacious innuendo and a saucy, irreverent sense of humor. There's a lot of quick wit and banter, mostly from West’s side, that keep the audience engaged. The writing demonstrates keen observational abilities about the social dynamics of the time, the way people communicate, and the role gender plays in society.

Paramount had cleverly adapted the risqué material of the original play to skirt the strictures of the Hays code. While the film doesn't shy away from adult themes, it approaches these subjects with remarkable subtlety and wit, resulting in a piece of cinema that is decades ahead of its time.

Apart from the strong performances and the engaging screenplay, another major attraction of She Done Him Wrong is the film's music. The film features several songs performed by Mae West herself, including the iconic "Frankie and Johnny," which adds a unique, charming musical dimension to the film.

The grudging attraction between West and Grant – intelligent, sharp, and leavened with humor – is another highlight of the movie. The on-screen chemistry of the two stars is undeniable, with Grant's sophisticated suavity acting as a perfect foil to West's tempestuous nature, making for some truly memorable cinematic moments.

The technical aspects of the film also bear mention as it boasts of superior production quality, excellent set designs that convincingly recreate the decadence and opulence of the era, and stunning cinematography that adds to the film's allure.

In a nutshell, She Done Him Wrong is a remarkable film of its era – provocative, entertaining, and ahead of its time, largely due to the brave performance from Mae West. The film stands a testament to West's unique voice, comic timing, and unapologetic portrayal of a strong, independent woman in an era where such roles were scarce.

It's also noteworthy that She Done Him Wrong was both a critical and commercial success. The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Picture and is credited with saving Paramount from bankruptcy during the Great Depression.

To this day, She Done Him Wrong remains a vital entry in cinema history, with Mae West's persona continuing to inspire filmmakers and actresses alike. So, whether you're a fan of the iconic Mae West, an aficionado of classic cinema, or simply intrigued by historical gender dynamics, She Done Him Wrong is a film that should not be missed!