The Lady Refuses
The Lady Refuses

The Lady Refuses

1931Movie72 minEnglish

A wealthy London nobleman hires a pretty but poor young woman to distract his playboy son from marrying a golddigger. Complications ensue when the girl and the father begin to fall for each other, and things get even more complicated when the son declares his love for her, too.

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Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Director: George ArchainbaudGenres: Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

A naive young woman from Vienna travels to America with dreams of marriage to a wealthy man. Upon arrival, she quickly learns about the harsh realities of life and love in the bustling city. She finds herself entangled with a charming but unscrupulous businessman, leading to a series of dramatic events that challenge her innocence and her perception of the American dream.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, 'The Lady Refuses' received mixed reviews. Critics praised the performance of its lead actress, Liane Haid, and the film's visual style, typical of early talkies. However, some found the plot to be somewhat predictable and melodramatic, while others noted its somewhat superficial portrayal of American society and its romantic entanglements.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for Liane Haid's charming performance.
  • Visuals and early talkie elements were noted.
  • Criticized by some for its melodramatic and predictable storyline.

Google audience: Audience reception data for this early film is not readily available through Google reviews.

Fun Fact

The film was one of several early attempts to leverage European talent for the American film market, showcasing Liane Haid, a popular star in Germany and Austria, in her Hollywood debut.

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TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

Betty Compson is quite good in this amiable little love-triangle melodrama. She is a lady down on her luck who, in order to avoid the pursuing constabulary, alights on the home of the wealthy "Sir Gerald" (Gilbert Emery). He takes her in, h...