It takes some deep listening to understand every word coming out of Greta Garbo's mouth, but as the plot becomes clearer, so do her words. She's a famous actress whose reputation has her rumored to have a sordid past, and when she has a romance with young Gavin Gordon, heir to a large estate, the rumor mill persists in creating scandal, to which his maiden aunt (Clara Blandick) is aghast. The revelation of her past with Gordon's much older mentor (Lewis Stone) has repercussions and a heartfelt thank you from her that is quite profound.
One of Garbo's least known classics, even though it had been a successful play and earlier silent film. Garbo is exuberant and even laughs a bit, showing much joy as she rides a toboggan with Gordon. Of all of Garbo's leading men, Gordon is the most obscure, seemingly rather young for her, but he manages somehow not to be swallowed up by her masterful presence. The future Judge Hardy (Stone) and Auntie Em (Blandick) are other memorable performances, with Blandick having a very funny reaction to Garbo's capuchin monkey. Mathilde Comont is an unforgettable presence as Garbo's servant. The direction of Clarence Brown also helps the pacing, with elaborate production a standout.
One of Garbo's least known classics, even though it had been a successful play and earlier silent film. Garbo is exuberant and even laughs a bit, showing much joy as she rides a toboggan with Gordon. Of all of Garbo's leading men, Gordon is the most obscure, seemingly rather young for her, but he manages somehow not to be swallowed up by her masterful presence. The future Judge Hardy (Stone) and Auntie Em (Blandick) are other memorable performances, with Blandick having a very funny reaction to Garbo's capuchin monkey. Mathilde Comont is an unforgettable presence as Garbo's servant. The direction of Clarence Brown also helps the pacing, with elaborate production a standout.