The Smart Set

The Smart Set, from the golden age of cinema in 1928, is an extraordinary silent sports drama directed by the reputed filmmaker, Jack Conway. Featuring a talented line-up of stars - the charismatic William Haines, dashing Jack Holt, and beautiful Alice Day, the film gracefully journeys through the glamour and intensity of the sport of polo, against the backdrop of the high-society world of the 1920s.

As a substantial part of MGM's prestigious lineup, The Smart Set commences its narrative with the story of its protagonist, Tommy Van Buren, portrayed by the awarded actor William Haines. Tommy, with his dashing charm and energetic persona, belongs to a wealthy American family associated with the aristocratic world of international polo.

The narrative expertly navigates through the myriad shades of Tommy's personality, which is inherently breezy yet distinctly complex. As an aspiring polo player, he aims to make it big in the prestigious tournament of the sport, known for attracting the aristocrats from every corner of the globe. His modern views and progressive outlook often clash with the time-honored traditions and conservative expectations of the high-status society.

Accompanying Tommy in this combustible mix of sport and society is his love interest, Cynthia Day, brought to life by the gorgeous Alice Day. Cynthia embodies the quintessential 1920s flapper girl - vivacious, rebellious, and free-spirited. Her contribution of charismatic screen presence and heartfelt emotions adds another layer of fascination to the plot.

As the plot gradually unfolds, Tommy’s life gets further complicated by his rivalry with the seasoned, formidable polo player, Nelson, who is none other than Jack Holt. The screen burns with intensity whenever Holt's Nelson comes face-to-face with Haines's Tommy in their aggressive polo matches, giving audience a whole new appreciation of the sport.

The dynamic trio (Haines, Day, Holt) is ensconced in a stunningly visual universe designed by Cedric Gibbons, one of the most important art directors of his generation. The grandeur of the polo fields, the lavish high society set-ups, and the passionate intensity of the polo matches are all a sight to behold.

The narrative is not just limited to the protagonists but also provides room for its support characters who enrich the plot. Carrying out these roles are accomplished names like Harry Crocker, who plays a significant role as Tommy's right-hand man, and Eddie Gribbon, who wins hearts with his portrayal of a rustic, all-knowing trainer.

For its time, The Smart Set carries hard-hitting themes of class-conscious society and rebellion against antiquated norms. The film not only effervesces with the glamour of the sport and high society lifestyle, but also explores the intricacies of relationships between different individuals coming from varied backgrounds.

The direction by Jack Conway is commendable, effectively managing to explore the subtleties of the characters on one hand while capturing their raw intensity on the other. The silent-era expressions of the actors, along with the beautifully narrated intertitles and subtle humor, make the narrative more endearing to the viewers.

Given its profound themes and influential cast, The Smart Set, needless to say, was a remarkable cinematic achievement. It transports viewers back to the era of free-spirited charm, youthful audacity, and high-stakes sportsmanship, all set within the confines of an upper crest society. This silent gem is a treat for viewers who appreciate a truly nuanced classic, full of impressive performances, refined humor, and sheer glamour.