El precio de una mujer

Today, I discovered Basil Rathbone. Yes, I know he's been around, I'm familiar with the Sherlock Holmes series...but, today I saw him in a new light thanks to TCM and 24 hours of his films. His elegance, dark beauty and subtle sexuality struck a chord in me today. Sin Takes A Holiday is a delightful film. Categorized as a drama, in the beginning we are led to believe it will be light and airy, however, as we are drawn to the characters, such as Constance Bennett's seemingly light facade and Kenneth MacKenna's and Rathbonne's dawning realizations...the underlying moral dilemma of the situation awakens a timeless knowledge in all of us.

In a precode marriage, sylvia (constance bennett) agrees to marry her boss. But only under his terms... she promises to toot off to europe immediately, so he can fiddle around without the danger of having to marry his girlfriends. Which is so similar to the plot of the modern film "cactus flower"! So sylvia dutifully heads to paris, and meets the dashing durant. Which complicates things. Rathbone had done a couple silents and talkies prior to this, one of which is the fun "last of mrs. Cheyney", the first version. And so famous for playing sherlock holmes. Bennett is probably best known for "topper" and "merrily we live", both so much fun. Zasu pitts is in here as well. The movie is pretty good, if predictable. What happens when someone wants to change the terms of the agreement? Directed by paul stein. Died at 59.

This pre-Code comedy is more interesting for its decor and reflection of the morals of the day than for its acting or story. The plot revolves around three characters, each in love with the one who isn't in love with her or him. Things work out in a way--two characters find each other and the third is left to move on. All this happens in an atmosphere of wealth, where amoral dalliance is both expected and titillating. An unfortunate effect is that the three characters come off as facile and, ultimately, unlikeable, the comedic talents of Bennett and the imposing presence of Rathbone notwithstanding. Despite the dismissal of a group of morally repugnant friends at the end, I didn't believe in the couple's future happiness--nor in the morally bankrupt world they inhabit and seem to enjoy. And I felt sorry for the one left out. He seemed the only character with a conscience. The always delightful presence of Zazu Pitts should be noted, though she plays a small role in the plot development. Enjoy this film for the marvelously fantastic Art Deco sets and wonderful period gowns. But ultimately, the resolution of the plot leaves one unsatisfied.

A Cinderella story with Bennett transforming from dull office worker to ritzy glamor girl and a big gain in self-confidence. Never mind that her new found status depends on a marital arrangement with employer that relieves him from an unwanted pursuer (LaRoy). So Bennett's new-found status is never secure even as new opportunities open up. Thus complications ensue.

There're some clever lines to enjoy along with Bennett's poignant innocence, still the flick lacks enlivening snap due mainly to Director Stein's flaccid direction and leading man Mac Kenna's rather bland presence. Too bad the zany Pitts doesn't get more screentime. Also, looks like the producers weren't sure whether they wanted a romantic comedy, drama, or Cummings showcase. Thus, the mixed, wavering results.

And how about those ritzy uptown gowns of the period-- real eye-catchers, along with the fancy flivvers they ride around in. Then too, the decorous parlors and liquor lounges are well-crafted and outfitted. At the same time, it's a challenge to see the unromantic Sherlock Holmes (Rathbone) in a romantic role and even embracing the girl. Nonetheless, that majestic aquiline nose is perfect for the aristocratic Reggie Durant. Anyhow, Bennett would go on to A-grade movies with leading men like Cary Grant, (Topper, 1937). And a good thing too, since she's clearly better than the results here.

SIN TAKES A HOLIDAY is the story of a divorce lawyer who comes up with the idea of having a wife in name only for his convenience. In other words, because he has a wife, it's a lot easier to rebuff the advances of his lonely female clients. He asks his faithful secretary (Constance Bennett) and at first she refuses. Part of this is obvious to the viewer--she secretly loves this lawyer. But when he behaves boorishly towards her, she decides to take him up on it because she can travel and have anything she wants...except her boss.

Unfortunately, there are two major problems with the film. The story has been done many times before in various forms and is very predictable. The other problem is that the "dramatic transformation" of Miss Bennett from a dowdy secretary to a ravishing socialite is just too unbelievable. She looks pretty much the same in both roles other than the clothes. But, like when Clark Kent removes his glasses, you are expected to believe in this miraculous change--it just isn't that miraculous as Bennett just isn't that desirable or different.

Overall, an interesting film where the actors try their best--it's just that the material isn't that interesting and is a disappointment in light of the salacious title! It's a pleasant romantic time-passer and that's about all.