Devil's Lottery

Director Sam Taylor offers an absorbing look into a cross-section of individuals who suffer the effects of sudden wealth (all winners in the Calcutta Sweepstakes). The well-chosen cast work in ensemble. Elissa Landi gives perfect nuance and dramatic weight as a woman of scandal who redefines her life. Her parasite lover (Paul Cavanagh) is appropriately repelling. Victor McLaglen (with his usual loose screw) is spot-on as an annoying prize-fighter, still tied to his mother's apron strings. Alexander Kirkland offers a certain naivety and charm, as the young man who discovers money isn't necessarily liberating. Halliwell Hobbes, who hosts the cast of characters at his English castle, has the insight and integrity to allow his guests to discover "themselves" ..... excellent photography and editing help create worthy Pre-Code screen fare.