It is surprising to learn that John O'Hara wrote the screen play for this movie. At least, the way we see it today, it appears sadly dated and devoid of interest. In fact, one has to question what kind of reception this movie had at the time it was released.
Evidently this movie was made on a low budget. It has a feel of a B type picture from the beginning. The set, which passes as San Pablo looks clearly a studio pool. Director Archie Mayo doesn't add anything to make this an interesting story. We know how it will end before hand.
Jean Gabin, the great French film star tried his luck in Hollywood. His career in France was much better than what we see in this vehicle. He has great moments in the movie, but everything is against him, and the film, as we watch it today, appears passe and without any interest for the viewer. At best, it's a curiosity piece and a rarity because M. Gabin's short stay in America. He deserved better!
Ida Lupino is Anna, the girl that wants to drown herself and is rescued by Bobo. She shows in the film she could hold her own against a more experienced and worldly Gabin. Claude Rains, as Nutsy, is hard to recognize in the opening scenes. One wonders why did he take this role since it didn't add anything to his otherwise brilliant career. He must have made this movie right after Casablanca, in which he shines. Thomas Mitchell also appears as Tiny, the heavy man intent in blackmailing Bobo and trying to seduce Anna.
Evidently this movie was made on a low budget. It has a feel of a B type picture from the beginning. The set, which passes as San Pablo looks clearly a studio pool. Director Archie Mayo doesn't add anything to make this an interesting story. We know how it will end before hand.
Jean Gabin, the great French film star tried his luck in Hollywood. His career in France was much better than what we see in this vehicle. He has great moments in the movie, but everything is against him, and the film, as we watch it today, appears passe and without any interest for the viewer. At best, it's a curiosity piece and a rarity because M. Gabin's short stay in America. He deserved better!
Ida Lupino is Anna, the girl that wants to drown herself and is rescued by Bobo. She shows in the film she could hold her own against a more experienced and worldly Gabin. Claude Rains, as Nutsy, is hard to recognize in the opening scenes. One wonders why did he take this role since it didn't add anything to his otherwise brilliant career. He must have made this movie right after Casablanca, in which he shines. Thomas Mitchell also appears as Tiny, the heavy man intent in blackmailing Bobo and trying to seduce Anna.