The Girl from Missouri

The Girl from Missouri is a charming, pre-code romantic comedy directed by Jack Conway and released in 1934. The film showcases the sparkling and evocative performances of Jean Harlow, Franchot Tone, and Lionel Barrymore, intertwined in a tale of ambition, charm, and love.

Jean Harlow, widely recognized for her bold and sizzling onscreen presence, is cast in this comedy as Eadie Chapman. Eadie is a spirited and ambitious young woman from Missouri who dreams of leaving her humble roots behind, resolving to marry into wealth and secure a prosperous future. Harlow effortlessly brings a vivacious and genuine intensity to Eadie's character, keeping the audience enthralled with her performance of a character who is unapologetic about her dreams and firm in her principles, adamant that she will achieve her ambitions virtuously.

Franchot Tone plays the role of Tom Paige Jr., a charming, wealthy bachelor and the object of Eadie's affection. No stranger to playing suave, upper-class men, Tone provides a nuanced depiction of a privileged man caught between love and familial obligations. Tone's character acts as a foil to Eadie, capturing the vacillations between a carefree playboy demeanor and a man caught in the throes of a deep, unexpected affection.

Rounding out the cast is legendary actor Lionel Barrymore, starring as Tom Paige Sr., Tom Jr.'s wealthy and powerful father. Barrymore delivers a heavy, attention-commanding performance as the stern patriarch eager to maintain his family's powerful stature within New York's society.

The film chronicles a wry, sometimes hilarious journey of Eadie and her simple but steadfast friend Kitty (played by Patsy Kelly), as they leave behind the confines of Missouri and head for the dazzling world of New York. Prepared with stern determination, both young women aim to charm their ways into marriages with affluent gentlemen. This quest leads to a sequence of enjoyably entertaining events, filled with humor, drama, and elements of love.

Along their journey, Eadie meets the affluent Tom Paige Jr., and the stage is set for an engaging and diverse narrative progression. As Eadie effortlessly lures Tom with her charm and magnetic personality, the duo sets off a whirlwind of compelling situations. From surprise engagements to family scandals and tender moments of romance, the film progresses with increasing charm and wit.

The screenplay, by Anita Loos, offers fertile ground for Harlow, Tone, and Barrymore to deliver definitive performances, rife with clever dialogue and ripe with appealing humor. Each scene is designed meticulously to bring out the charm of early 20th century New York, complete with its grandeur and wealthy opulence.

Despite the seemingly playful and lighthearted premise, The Girl from Missouri doesn’t shy away from subtly injecting socio-economic commentary and emotional depth to the narrative. In the quest for wealth, the characters confront their ideas of happiness, loyalty, love, and societal expectations, delivering a mature take on the romantic comedy genre.

Moreover, the fashion of that era is displayed magnificiently through Adrian's costumes that Harlow dons. Harlow’s character is a vision in glamorous and elaborate gowns, with a stunning piece showcased in almost every other scene. The film becomes a window to the extravagant fashion penchant of the opulent 1930s society.

Complementing the remarkable performances and compelling narrative is the remarkable cinematography. The movie is visually airbrushed with all the charisma of the '30s, with sets and scenes that capture the essence and allure of the era. Whether it be the lavishly decorated homes, the glinting chandeliers, or the bustling streets - the film, in its visual narrative, is vibrant and luxurious.

Regardless of whether you’re a fan of classic cinema or just discovering the gems of the past, The Girl from Missouri serves as an entertaining watch. It combines Jean Harlow’s magnetic presence, Franchot Tone’s elegant charm, and Lionel Barrymore's seasoned performance against the backdrop of an admirably humorous script. This movie promises a rollercoaster ride of ambition, charm, scandal, and romance, making it a memorable experience for all cinema enthusiasts.