Chained
Richard, a millionaire in love with his secretary, Diane, is dispirited when his wife refuses to divorce him. Concerned that Diane will now lose interest, Richard offers her an all-expense-paid cruise to Argentina so that she can think it over. While traveling, however, Diane falls in love with fellow traveler Mike. She resolves to come clean to Richard, but upon return she becomes conflicted when she finds out he was able to get divorced after all.
Insights
Plot Summary
Diane is a young woman who falls in love with Mike, a charming but irresponsible fisherman. After a whirlwind romance, they marry, but Diane quickly discovers the harsh realities of poverty and Mike's unreliable nature. Her mother intervenes, arranging for Diane to have an affair with a wealthy older man, John. Diane agrees to the arrangement, believing it's the only way to secure a better future, but finds herself caught between her love for Mike and the stability John offers.
Critical Reception
Chained was a commercial success, further solidifying Joan Crawford's status as a major Hollywood star. While critics acknowledged the compelling performances, particularly Crawford's, some found the plot's moral ambiguity and melodramatic elements to be its weaker points. It remains a notable entry in the pre-Code era for its exploration of complex female desires and societal pressures.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for Joan Crawford's captivating performance and her chemistry with Clark Gable.
- Noted for its dramatic exploration of a woman caught between love and financial security.
- Some found the film's narrative somewhat conventional and melodramatic for its time.
Google audience: Audience reception information is not readily available for this classic film.
Fun Fact
Clark Gable and Joan Crawford starred together in eight films, and 'Chained' was one of their most popular collaborations.
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