

Manhattan Cocktail
Nancy Carroll stars in Manhattan Cocktail as Babs, a college coed who dreams of becoming a famous actress. Joining up with her campus chums Fred (Richard Arlen) and Bob (Danny O'Shea), likewise aspiring thespians, Babes heads to Broadway with stars in her eyes. The winsome threesome are quickly disillusioned by the heartless machinations of nasty producer Renov (Paul Lukas) and his harridan wife (Lilyan Tashman). Before the plot proper gets under way, the audience is regaled with a cute "mythological" prologue, featuring the same three leading actors. Manhattan Cocktail was a silent picture, except for two brief musical numbers showcasing Nancy Carroll.
Insights
Plot Summary
A society woman, struggling to keep her family's finances afloat after her father's death, becomes involved with a charming but mysterious artist. She finds herself torn between her duty, her growing affections, and the social pressures of the Jazz Age. The film explores themes of love, ambition, and the clash between traditional values and modern desires.
Critical Reception
As an early sound film, "Manhattan Cocktail" was noted for its technical innovation and for being one of the few films directed by a woman during this era. While not a critical darling by modern standards, it was generally seen as an engaging melodrama for its time, offering a glimpse into the social dynamics and artistic aspirations of the late 1920s.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its directorial effort by a woman in a male-dominated industry.
- An interesting snapshot of early sound film technology.
- Considered a decent melodrama with a focus on social themes.
Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for this film is not readily available due to its age.
Fun Fact
Dorothy Arzner, the director of 'Manhattan Cocktail', was one of the few female directors in Hollywood during the late 1920s and early 1930s, and she famously designed the "Arzner", a type of bra that improved the silhouette of dresses for actresses.
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