Step into the bold world of pre-code Hollywood with Ex-Lady, a provocative romantic drama from 1933, now beautifully colorized for a fresh viewing experience. Directed by Robert Florey, this film showcases Bette Davis in one of her earliest leading roles, portraying a fiercely independent woman navigating love and career. Perfect for fans of classic cinema and those intrigued by progressive themes of gender equality and unconventional relationships, this HD download brings a daring piece of cinematic history to your screen.
Ex-Lady follows Helen Bauer (Bette Davis), a glamorous and successful New York graphic artist with modern ideas about romance. Helen is deeply in love with advertising writer Don Peterson (Gene Raymond), but she resists the idea of marriage, fearing it will stifle her independence and ruin their relationship. Despite her reservations, Helen agrees to marry Don to appease her traditional father.
The couple’s honeymoon phase is short-lived as they face mounting pressures from their shared advertising agency and personal insecurities. Don begins an affair with Peggy Smith (Kay Strozzi), one of his married clients, while Helen finds solace in the company of Nick Malvyn (Monroe Owsley), Don’s business rival. Both struggle with jealousy and misunderstandings, but ultimately realize that their love can overcome the challenges of marriage. The film ends on a hopeful note as they reconcile and embrace the complexities of their relationship.
The film features a talented ensemble cast that brings this unconventional story to life:
Bette Davis as Helen Bauer
Gene Raymond as Don Peterson
Frank McHugh as Van
Monroe Owsley as Nick Malvyn
Kay Strozzi as Peggy Smith
Claire Dodd as Iris Van Hugh
Alphonse Ethier as Adolphe Bauer
Ferdinand Gottschalk as Hugo Van Hugh
Ex-Lady blends romantic drama with elements of social commentary, making it an intriguing exploration of relationships, independence, and societal expectations. Its progressive themes challenge conventional gender roles and offer a refreshing perspective on love during Hollywood’s pre-code era.
Released in 1933 during Hollywood’s pre-code era, Ex-Lady stands out for its bold depiction of gender equality and unconventional relationships. The film defies traditional norms by portraying Helen as a liberated woman who prioritizes her career and refuses to conform to societal expectations about marriage.
The pre-code era allowed filmmakers to explore mature themes without censorship, resulting in movies like Ex-Lady that challenged conservative values. Helen’s unapologetic stance on love and independence was groundbreaking for its time, offering audiences a glimpse into evolving gender dynamics during the early 20th century.
This colorized version of Ex-Lady has been meticulously restored using advanced digital techniques. The process enhances the film’s visual appeal while preserving its original charm. From Helen’s chic wardrobe to the elegant interiors of 1930s New York, the colorization breathes new life into every frame, making it accessible to modern audiences while honoring its historical significance.
Director: Robert Florey
Screenplay: David Boehm
Based on: A play by Edith Fitzgerald and Robert Riskin
Cinematography: Tony Gaudio
Music: Leo F. Forbstein
Production Company: Warner Bros.
Runtime: 67 minutes
Download Format: MP4
Resolution: HD (1080p)
Compatibility: Suitable for smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs
Ex-Lady received mixed reviews upon its release but has since been recognized as a significant work in Bette Davis’s career. Critics praised Davis’s performance for its depth and nuance, highlighting her ability to portray a modern woman grappling with love and independence. The film is celebrated today for its feminist themes and progressive narrative, making it a must-watch for fans of pre-code cinema.
Q: What is Ex-Lady about?
A: It’s about Helen Bauer, a liberated artist who navigates love and marriage while maintaining her independence.
Q: Is this version colorized?
A: Yes, this version has been professionally colorized for enhanced viewing.
Q: Why is Ex-Lady considered a pre-code film?
A: It explores mature themes like infidelity, birth control implications, and gender equality without censorship.
Q: Who stars in Ex-Lady?
A: The film features Bette Davis, Gene Raymond, Monroe Owsley, Kay Strozzi, and Frank McHugh.
Rediscover the Bold Romance of Ex-Lady Today!