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- Possessed 1931 Colorized
Synopsis
Ambition, Scandal, and Desire: Possessed (1931) in Brilliant Color
Step into the dazzling yet turbulent world of “Possessed” (1931), now colorized for a new generation of classic film lovers. Directed by Clarence Brown, this romance melodrama follows the journey of Marian Martin, a determined factory worker whose hunger for a better life leads her from the gritty streets of Erie, Pennsylvania, to the glittering heights of New York society. With a powerhouse performance by Joan Crawford, supported by Clark Gable, this pre-code classic explores the costs of ambition, the allure of forbidden love, and the sacrifices demanded by social climbing.
The Story of Marian Martin: From Factory Girl to High Society
Marian Martin (Joan Crawford) is trapped in a life of routine and limited prospects, working in a paper box factory and facing pressure from her earnest but unambitious boyfriend, Al Manning (Wallace Ford). Marian dreams of something more than marriage and small-town monotony. Her world shifts when she glimpses the luxurious lives of train passengers passing through her town—a symbol of everything she desires.
A chance encounter with Wally Stuart, a wealthy New Yorker, offers Marian a tantalizing glimpse of high society. With determination and the remnants of Wally’s address, Marian leaves her old life behind and heads to New York City. There, she meets Mark Whitney (Clark Gable), a sophisticated and powerful attorney. Mark is captivated by Marian’s spirit and beauty, and soon she becomes his mistress, reinvented as the elegant “Mrs. Moreland.” Mark provides Marian with a lavish lifestyle, education, and access to the world she once only dreamed about.
Three years pass, and Marian and Mark’s relationship deepens, but it remains a secret due to the social stigma of their arrangement. When Mark’s political ambitions threaten to expose their affair, Marian faces a heartbreaking choice: risk Mark’s future or sacrifice her own happiness.
Cast and Characters
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Joan Crawford as Marian Martin (aka Mrs. Moreland)
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Clark Gable as Mark Whitney
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Wallace Ford as Al Manning
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Richard ‘Skeets’ Gallagher as Wally Stuart
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Frank Conroy as Mark’s political advisor
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Marjorie White, John Miljan, Clara Blandick in supporting roles
Genre: Romance Melodrama with a Pre-Code Edge
“Possessed” is a quintessential romance melodrama, enriched by the daring themes of pre-code Hollywood. The film delves into issues of class, morality, and female agency, all set against the backdrop of the Great Depression. Its honest portrayal of ambition and the cost of love sets it apart from other films of its era.
Colorization: Breathing New Life into a Classic
This colorized edition of “Possessed” brings the glamour and grit of 1930s New York to vivid life. The restoration process enhances every detail—from the shimmering gowns and opulent interiors to the stark contrast of Marian’s humble beginnings. The colorization not only modernizes the viewing experience but also highlights the film’s emotional intensity, making Marian’s journey more relatable and visually striking.
Historical Significance and Legacy
“Possessed” stands as a landmark in both Joan Crawford’s and Clark Gable’s careers. It was the third of their eight collaborations, and their on-screen chemistry helped define the era’s romantic drama. The film’s themes of self-invention and sacrifice resonated deeply during the Great Depression, offering audiences both escapism and a mirror to their own struggles.
The screenplay, adapted by Lenore J. Coffee from Edgar Selwyn’s play “The Mirage,” gives Marian a complexity rare for female characters of the time. Her journey from factory worker to society woman is both inspiring and tragic, reflecting the hopes and fears of countless viewers during the 1930s.
Technical Details
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Director: Clarence Brown
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Screenplay: Lenore J. Coffee
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Based on: “The Mirage” by Edgar Selwyn
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Cinematography: Oliver T. Marsh
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Editing: William LeVanway
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Music: William Axt, Charles Maxwell, Joseph Meyer
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Production: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
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Runtime: 76 minutes
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Format: MP4, HD (1080p)
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Compatibility: Stream or download on smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs
Critical Reception
Upon release, “Possessed” was praised for its bold storytelling, emotional performances, and stylish direction. Joan Crawford’s portrayal of Marian is often cited as one of her defining early roles, while Clark Gable’s Mark Whitney is both charismatic and vulnerable. The film’s exploration of societal double standards and the personal cost of ambition remains relevant and compelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: Is this version of “Possessed” colorized?
A: Yes, this edition has been professionally colorized to enhance the original black-and-white cinematography. -
Q: What makes “Possessed” (1931) unique among classic films?
A: Its pre-code frankness, complex female protagonist, and the sizzling chemistry between Joan Crawford and Clark Gable. -
Q: Is “Possessed” based on a true story?
A: The story is adapted from the play “The Mirage” by Edgar Selwyn, reflecting the era’s social realities. -
Q: Can I download “Possessed” in HD?
A: Yes, this restored colorized version is available for HD download, compatible with most modern devices.
Download Now in HD!
Relive the passion, ambition, and heartbreak of “Possessed”—now in stunning color. Download your HD copy today and experience a classic like never before!
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