Richard Barthelmess (as Tom Holmes) is serving in the Great War (World War I), with buddy Gordon Westcott (as Roger Winston). When Mr. Westcott shows cowardice during an important assignment, Mr. Barthelmess heroically completes the mission. However, Barthelmess is wounded; and, he is taken prisoner by the Germans. Westcott assumes Barthelmess is dead, and takes credit for completing the mission. Meanwhile, Barthelmess is given morphine by German doctors; after the war, he returns to the United States, but has become a drug addict. Westcott helps Barthelmess out by getting him a job in his father's bank. Naturally, a poor morphine addict is going to have a difficult time working in a bank
Barthelmess performs exceptionally well; and, the filmmakers should be commended for dealing with the story of a war veteran's overcoming of addiction. Director William A. Wellman also excels in "Heroes for Sale". Loretta Young is lovely as Barthelmess' leading lady; but, Aline MacMahon is much more interesting as another woman who secretly desires Barthelmess. Ms. MacMahon might have garnered "Supporting Actress" awards for her characterization, if they had been given in 1933. Watch McMahon watch Barthelmess; and, don't miss Barthelmess' contrasting first look at Ms. Young.
The film deals with political notions which are a little confusing, especially with the communist and/or capitalist character played by Robert Barrat (Max). "Heroes for Sale" begins as World War I ends, and concludes in the "present" era, as FDR becomes President. Barthelmess' character is optimistic about America, stating, "In a few years it will go on bigger and stronger than ever."
******** Heroes for Sale (6/17/33) William A. Wellman ~ Richard Barthelmess, Aline MacMahon, Loretta Young, Gordon Westcott
Barthelmess performs exceptionally well; and, the filmmakers should be commended for dealing with the story of a war veteran's overcoming of addiction. Director William A. Wellman also excels in "Heroes for Sale". Loretta Young is lovely as Barthelmess' leading lady; but, Aline MacMahon is much more interesting as another woman who secretly desires Barthelmess. Ms. MacMahon might have garnered "Supporting Actress" awards for her characterization, if they had been given in 1933. Watch McMahon watch Barthelmess; and, don't miss Barthelmess' contrasting first look at Ms. Young.
The film deals with political notions which are a little confusing, especially with the communist and/or capitalist character played by Robert Barrat (Max). "Heroes for Sale" begins as World War I ends, and concludes in the "present" era, as FDR becomes President. Barthelmess' character is optimistic about America, stating, "In a few years it will go on bigger and stronger than ever."
******** Heroes for Sale (6/17/33) William A. Wellman ~ Richard Barthelmess, Aline MacMahon, Loretta Young, Gordon Westcott