In many of his films of the 1930's, Clive Brook could either be the most boring actor in the world or one of the most magnetic. Some of his drawing-room dramas are so droll that they are extremely difficult to sit through and find any enjoyment. However in this one, his personality is on fire, and he comes out a winner as an upper crust member of the British society accused of cheating at cards. After much deliberation, he decides to take his accuser (Arthur Margetson) go to court, realizing the real motive for the accusation. This involves the troubles in Margetson's marriage to Margaretta Scott whom Margetson believes has been carrying on with Brook. The fact that Brooks' wife (Ann Todd) has left him doesn't help Brook, and it does appear that there is indeed something fishy between them. Brook's circle of friends aren't exactly helpful, and it takes some time for Brook to make the decision of the action he will take.
The court sequences highlighted by the larger than life performance by Francis L. Sullivan as Brook's flamboyant attorney. There are many witty moments in the script which aids this immeasurably. The subject of the court case may not seem exciting, but the point of why Brook is suing is indeed understandable. Social drama about a man his honor, that nobody can take it away from him, and that personal issues of another matter should not lead to accusations that could damage someone's reputation in far more serious ways. That makes this film an interesting character study with why is comments on British society and the subject of keeping one's reputation intact, especially when they haven't done anything to warrant being publicly smeared.
The court sequences highlighted by the larger than life performance by Francis L. Sullivan as Brook's flamboyant attorney. There are many witty moments in the script which aids this immeasurably. The subject of the court case may not seem exciting, but the point of why Brook is suing is indeed understandable. Social drama about a man his honor, that nobody can take it away from him, and that personal issues of another matter should not lead to accusations that could damage someone's reputation in far more serious ways. That makes this film an interesting character study with why is comments on British society and the subject of keeping one's reputation intact, especially when they haven't done anything to warrant being publicly smeared.