Year: 1931
Director: Frank Capra
Country: US
Language: English
Though American Director Frank Capra (1897-1991) had directed features in the silent era, Platinum Blonde (1931) was his first real critical success, albeit it did not do that well in the box office as returns would be seen as " a little disappointing". It was not until Capra further cemented his reputation that this picture would be seen as something with greater historical and artistic significance.
A young woman (Jean Harlow) from a very rich family impulsively marries a reporter (Robert Williams), but each assumes the other is the one whose lifestyle must change.
At the height of Hollywood's Golden Era films about journalism were plentiful. Earlier pictures included It Happened One Night (1934) and His Girl Friday (1940), later pictures included Ace in the Hole (1950) and Sweet Smell of Success (1957). Platinum Blonde is a "rich vs. poor" romantic comedy that is full of charismatic and off-the wall characters who the audience becomes quickly attracted to.
Though it can be a bit talky, the quick wit and speedy delivery of the dialog makes Platinum Blonde quite hysterical at times. Pre-Code naughtiness (implied sexual misconduct) make many scenes that much more special. Jean Harlow, a woman who turned heads back in her day, certainly is quite alluring in this earlier role. She would go on to make even sexier pictures.
It's unfortunate that Robert Williams, who was spectacular in this picture, died just three days after the premiere of this film. His career would have been elevated and he could have starred in even greater films afterwards. Overall, though this is far from Capra's greatest picture, it still is an enjoyable piece of entertainment.
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