Perhaps the most consistent beef expressed by film reviewers here seems to be that the story is "far-fetched," but even though that point is conceded I don't think a points reduction because of that is warranted. Although a fantasy in foundation, the well-scripted and at times poignantly unfolding story wouldn't be worthwhile or even interesting if it were not so. There are several key relationships on display here involving fairly weighty themes about human values and personal conduct.
George Arliss is so touching and gets to show off his versatility in portraying a range of emotions and reactions, as well as reminding us of how human he is in his dignity. Largely owing to Artliss' mastery, nearly the entire film betrays a lyrical rhythm, like a beautifully constructed pop song; I say "nearly" because the ending seems a little troubled, as if it was conveniently curt and hurried. Maybe it was only the disappointment that the time having been spent with the story and Arliss was drawing to a close.
Bette Davis makes a good early-in-her-career showing of her wares, not only in her thespian efforts but also including in her on-the-boat scene at the beginning of the film. There were a few times where her fascinating eyes are well-employed, and even a few brief moments where she postures, uncharacteristically for the era, in a direct and sharply clipped manner. Audiences and the movie business must have found her developing screen presence intriguing.
The two men in Davis' life are portrayed by actors (Theodore Newton and Hardie Albright) not to be particularly well-remembered to audiences, and this might have been just as well. The power of Arliss and the bubbling-under of Davis is probably all the star power this particular film can comfortably handle. Also appreciated is J. Farrell MacDonald, who provides a most amiable presence for Arliss to banter with; whether in B-films or A-films, MacDonald was one of Hollywood's tried and true character players.
In summation, "The Working Man' satisfyingly presents an implausible story that explores several personal and business relationships that will likely not leave most viewers' thoughts anytime soon. Enjoyable and thought-provoking for sure.
One final note concerns the rating that this film has received from reviewers. Those 22 who as of January 2023 took the time to write reviews assigned an average point rating of 8.45, while the 1,200 viewers who simply rated the film without reviewing it provided an average of more than a point less, 7.3. A similar rating relationship has been seen in many other instances.
George Arliss is so touching and gets to show off his versatility in portraying a range of emotions and reactions, as well as reminding us of how human he is in his dignity. Largely owing to Artliss' mastery, nearly the entire film betrays a lyrical rhythm, like a beautifully constructed pop song; I say "nearly" because the ending seems a little troubled, as if it was conveniently curt and hurried. Maybe it was only the disappointment that the time having been spent with the story and Arliss was drawing to a close.
Bette Davis makes a good early-in-her-career showing of her wares, not only in her thespian efforts but also including in her on-the-boat scene at the beginning of the film. There were a few times where her fascinating eyes are well-employed, and even a few brief moments where she postures, uncharacteristically for the era, in a direct and sharply clipped manner. Audiences and the movie business must have found her developing screen presence intriguing.
The two men in Davis' life are portrayed by actors (Theodore Newton and Hardie Albright) not to be particularly well-remembered to audiences, and this might have been just as well. The power of Arliss and the bubbling-under of Davis is probably all the star power this particular film can comfortably handle. Also appreciated is J. Farrell MacDonald, who provides a most amiable presence for Arliss to banter with; whether in B-films or A-films, MacDonald was one of Hollywood's tried and true character players.
In summation, "The Working Man' satisfyingly presents an implausible story that explores several personal and business relationships that will likely not leave most viewers' thoughts anytime soon. Enjoyable and thought-provoking for sure.
One final note concerns the rating that this film has received from reviewers. Those 22 who as of January 2023 took the time to write reviews assigned an average point rating of 8.45, while the 1,200 viewers who simply rated the film without reviewing it provided an average of more than a point less, 7.3. A similar rating relationship has been seen in many other instances.