Storyline

In 1909 Mary Archer, daughter of small-town bluebloods, awaits the return from Germany of sometime beau Jeff. But Jeff brings with him a German friend, Hugo Wilbrandt, who loves and marries Mary. Hugo joins the faculty of a small college and the Wilbrandts prosper...until the advent of World War I brings a storm of anti-German hatred. Resulting troubles so embitter Hugo that he regrets his American citizenship...—Rod Crawford

Plot Keywords

spy, patriotism, new england, marriage, german american, bigotry, world war one, xenophobia

Short Review

It was odd to find this title added to a ‘Forbidden Hollywood' volume, it's quite a classic love story. Regardless of Stanwyck's opinion of her early Warner/Vitaphone pictures, this is quite a surprising movie on several levels, and she is dazzling throughout. Its theme of propaganda, national bias and social intolerance remains strong and timely for many people to this day. For its age, it remains good looking, even if a bit obvious by today's standards. Many moving and serious situations play-out in its WW1 setting making this a forgotten gem - deserving to be seen by lovers of vintage classics. With a true Shakespearian ending, veteran director Archie Mayo and Si/early sound Cinematographer Arthur Todd, fill its fast-moving short running time with stylish visual class.The WB Archive transfer DVD is good looking with fine sound

Trailer

Streaming Service

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