Dishonored
Dishonored

Movie spotlight

Dishonored

1931
Movie
91 min
English

The Austrian Secret Service sends its most seductive agent to spy on the Russians.

Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes80%
Director: Josef von SternbergGenres: Drama, War, Romance

Plot Summary

In this pre-Code melodrama, a Russian spy operating in Warsaw during World War I uses her charm and seduction to extract vital information from military officers. She becomes entangled with a married Austrian captain, leading to a dangerous game of espionage and forbidden love. Her double life becomes increasingly precarious as she falls for the captain, risking both her mission and her life.

Critical Reception

Josef von Sternberg's "Dishonored" was a critical success, praised for its stylish direction and Marlene Dietrich's captivating performance. It was lauded for its daring narrative and visual flair, solidifying Dietrich's status as a major star. The film is considered a notable entry in early Hollywood's pre-Code era, showcasing a bold approach to storytelling.

What Reviewers Say

  • Marlene Dietrich delivers a mesmerizing performance as a seductive spy.

  • Josef von Sternberg's distinctive visual style and direction are hallmarks of the film.

  • The narrative is a compelling blend of espionage, romance, and tragedy.

Google audience: While specific Google user ratings are not readily available for this classic film, general audience appreciation often highlights Dietrich's star power and the film's stylish, daring pre-Code content.

Fun Fact

During the filming of "Dishonored," Marlene Dietrich and Josef von Sternberg's intense creative collaboration, which had produced several acclaimed films, began to show signs of strain due to the director's demanding methods and Dietrich's growing assertiveness.

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