Step into the dazzling world of 1930s romance with Forsaking All Others (1934), now available in a fully colorized HD edition. This romantic comedy-drama, directed by W.S. Van Dyke, brings together three of Hollywood’s brightest stars—Joan Crawford, Clark Gable, and Robert Montgomery—in a whirlwind of love triangles, witty banter, and high-society hijinks. Experience the glamour, heartbreak, and humor of this beloved classic like never before, with every scene brought to life in stunning color.
Forsaking All Others centers on the long-standing friendship between Mary Clay (Joan Crawford), Jeff Williams (Clark Gable), and Dillon “Dill” Todd (Robert Montgomery). The trio has grown up together, but beneath the surface, Jeff has always harbored deep feelings for Mary. Returning from Spain, Jeff plans to finally confess his love, only to discover that Mary is set to marry Dill the very next day.
The wedding, however, takes a dramatic turn. Dill, unable to resist old temptations, ditches Mary at the altar and elopes with Connie Barnes (Frances Drake), a woman from his past. Mary, devastated but determined, refuses to wallow in self-pity and instead throws herself into new adventures, displaying the resilience and wit that made Joan Crawford a star.
As Mary and Jeff navigate the aftermath, they find themselves entangled in a series of comedic and romantic misadventures. Dill’s impulsive actions continue to reverberate, leading to awkward reunions, lavish parties, and a countryside getaway that brings all the key players together for a final reckoning. Ultimately, Mary must choose between the man who betrayed her and the friend who has always loved her.
Forsaking All Others features a powerhouse ensemble, each delivering memorable performances:
Joan Crawford as Mary Clay
Clark Gable as Jeff Williams
Robert Montgomery as Dillon “Dill” Todd
Frances Drake as Connie Barnes Todd
Billie Burke as Aunt Paula
Charles Butterworth as Shep
Rosalind Russell as Eleanor
This film marks the sixth of eight collaborations between Crawford and Gable, whose on-screen chemistry is palpable and remains a highlight for classic movie fans.
Forsaking All Others is a romantic comedy-drama, blending sharp dialogue, slapstick moments, and heartfelt emotion. The film’s witty script, penned by Joseph L. Mankiewicz, is adapted from the successful Broadway play by Edward Barry Roberts and Frank Morgan Cavett. The movie’s tone is both lighthearted and poignant, capturing the complexities of love and friendship with a sophisticated, pre-code sensibility.
Premiering in 1934, Forsaking All Others was produced during Hollywood’s golden era, just before the enforcement of the Hays Code. This allowed for more daring themes and clever innuendo, giving the film a modern edge even by today’s standards. The original stage version starred Tallulah Bankhead, but MGM transformed the story into a perfect vehicle for Joan Crawford, capitalizing on her immense popularity and relatable screen presence.
The film’s production values are top-notch, with cinematography by Gregg Toland and George J. Folsey, and a supporting cast filled with familiar faces from the era. Billie Burke delivers her signature comedic flair as Aunt Paula, while Frances Drake steals scenes as the scheming Connie.
This colorized edition of Forsaking All Others has been meticulously restored, using advanced digital techniques to enhance every frame. The process involved careful color selection to match the period’s aesthetic, ensuring that the lavish costumes, elegant interiors, and expressive performances are all showcased in vibrant detail. The result is a fresh viewing experience that honors the film’s original charm while making it accessible to new generations.
Upon its release, Forsaking All Others was both a critical and commercial success, becoming one of the top-grossing films of 1934. Critics praised the clever script, the sparkling chemistry between Crawford and Gable, and the film’s ability to balance comedy with genuine emotion. Variety lauded it as “clever and smart, packing a lot of comedy in action, situation, and dialogue,” while highlighting Crawford’s standout performance.
The movie remains a favorite among fans of classic Hollywood, offering a perfect blend of romance, humor, and drama. Its influence can be seen in later romantic comedies that explore the complexities of love and friendship within high society.
Forsaking All Others is sometimes referenced simply as “Forsaking All Others (1934)” or “Forsaking All Others: A Romantic Comedy-Drama.” Its enduring popularity has led to frequent showings on classic film channels and inclusion in retrospectives of Joan Crawford and Clark Gable’s legendary careers.
Director: W.S. Van Dyke
Screenplay: Joseph L. Mankiewicz
Based on: Play by Edward Barry Roberts and Frank Morgan Cavett
Cinematography: Gregg Toland, George J. Folsey
Edited by: Tom Held
Music by: William Axt
Production Company: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Runtime: 83 minutes
Format: Colorized HD (1080p), MP4 compatible with all major devices
What is the main theme of Forsaking All Others?
The film explores love, friendship, and the courage to pursue true happiness, even when it means breaking from tradition.
Is this the colorized version?
Yes, this edition has been professionally colorized for a modern, visually rich experience.
Who are the leading stars?
Joan Crawford, Clark Gable, and Robert Montgomery headline the cast, supported by Frances Drake, Billie Burke, and Rosalind Russell.
Why is Forsaking All Others considered a classic?
Its witty script, dynamic performances, and timeless themes of love and loyalty make it a standout of 1930s cinema.
Relive the magic of Forsaking All Others (1934) in stunning color—download your HD copy and enjoy a Hollywood classic reimagined for today’s audience.