The Locked Door

A 1919 play gets that early sound stage treatment. A bit of detective drama in the last act was one way to keep things up to date back then; and they've injected a bit of a "pre-code" air now. Still, the base is melodramatic cheese, as classic groaner contrivances abound. The cast has quite a few early talky appearances for people shown to better advantage elsewhere, including the comic support. A bit of a bomb mostly remembered due to Stanwyck's debut (she, for one, was not impressed, mind).

Interesting as a period piece (apparently, Americans have always loved their phony outrage, whether it's over sex or drinking), and for Barbara Stanwyck's first turn in a starring role. Even here, her remarkable ability and ease are in full evidence. It's not a great mystery plot, but also not a terrible movie. The dénouement is actually rather comical by modern standards. And it was certainly odd to hear Stanwyck say her dress came from the best dressmaker in MY hometown!