Matinee Ladies
Law student Bob Ward, short on money, takes a job as a "dancing companion" at a roadhouse, where most of his clients are women looking for a little excitement outside their marriage. He falls in love with Sallie Smith, a cigarette girl at the roadhouse, but wealthy young wastrel Tom Mannion also has his eyes on Sallie. Tom persuades her to attend a party on his yacht, and since Sallie has had a fight with Bob over his job, she accepts. Complications ensue.
Insights
Plot Summary
A struggling actress, driven by financial desperation, agrees to a marriage of convenience with a wealthy businessman. Her dreams of stardom clash with the reality of her arranged life, leading to complex emotional entanglements and difficult choices about love, ambition, and societal expectations.
Critical Reception
Contemporary reviews for 'Matinee Ladies' were mixed, with some praising its melodrama and performances, particularly Alma Rubens, while others found the plot predictable and overly sentimental. It was considered a typical example of the dramatic fare offered to audiences during the late silent film era.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its dramatic performances, especially from its lead actress.
- Criticized for a conventional and sentimental plot.
- Seen as a representative melodrama of its time.
Google audience: As a silent film from 1927, specific Google user reviews are not available. However, films of this era were generally appreciated for their emotional storytelling and visual artistry.
Fun Fact
Alma Rubens, who starred as the lead, was a prominent actress in the silent film era, known for her dramatic roles, but her career was tragically cut short due to personal struggles and health issues.
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