Till We Meet Again

This noteworthy "B" or programmer film from 1936 stars Herbert Marshall, Gertrude Michael,and Lionel Atwell, all of whom turn in top performances under the efficient and inspired direction of Robert Florey. Thank to Florey the costuming, set decoration and general period detail are of the highest order. One wishes that the film was longer than 72 minutes and given an "A" budget. In fact the story had been a Paramount property for years and in 1933 and was proposed for Herbert Marshall and Sylvia Sidney. Several years later the property was dusted-off and assigned to Gertrude Michael who had been a rising star since Paramount had signed her to a long term contract in December 1933. This film is sometimes confused with FORGOTTEN FACES (1936),the E.A.Dupont film which also starred Marshall and Michael. Due to some pre-release publicity and reviews, TILL WE MEET AGAIN was referred to as FORGOTTEN FACES. TILL WE MEET AGAIN was presented in retrospect several years ago at the Roxie Cinema in San Francisco. I believe I can direct to the proper source anyone interested in VHS copy of this film.

It's 1914 in London and actor Herbert Marshall (Alan) is wooing Gertrude Michael (Elsa). It's the evening that war breaks out with Germany but these two lovers are on opposite sides when it comes to carrying out your duty for your country. Indeed, Gertrude is already one step ahead! Their love is torn apart as they are obliged to follow their paths as spies.

The location changes to France & Germany and the different settings provide a constant interest as separate episodes are followed at a good pace. The rest of the cast are also effective. In one sequence, we see that Gertrude has a human side to her but she still carries out her task when called upon to reveal an enemy contact. She also has a crafty idea up her sleeve when put in a situation where she is carrying information and comes up against a cigarette check. I wonder if these checks really happened. The film has tense moments.

The film is good entertainment and doesn't waste any time. Actually, I could have done without Marshall's creepy declarations of love at the beginning of the film. What on earth is he going on about? I guess he's just one of those dramatic actor types that likes to ramble on. Outside of his ideas about love, he carries out his part well.

It's a short film but it takes you on a satisfying journey. We know that our 2 heroes are destined to come up against each other at some point in their new guises, and, of course, they do. Will love override their sense of duty?