San Francisco madam Ruth Chatterton (as "Frisco" Jenny) suffers paternal abuse, out-of-wedlock pregnancy, and the San Francisco earthquake of 1906. After becoming a mother, Ms. Chatterton tries to go straight; but, she is unable to support a child. Chatterton partners up with Louis Calhern (as Steve Dutton); and, they prosper in prostitution and bootlegging. Mr. Calhern also provides a legitimate home for Chatterton's son, who grows into a football star and, later, a successful district attorney. Grown-up son Donald Cook (as Dan Reynolds) doesn't know about his mother's life of crime. Will their paths cross?
A "star vehicle" for Chatterton; "Frisco Jenny" is, otherwise, unsatisfying. Chatterton and the cast are entertaining, though; and, she performs especially well during the film's final scenes. During the trial, William A. Wellman's direction is somewhat dizzying. And, why does Chatterton save money, for years, to pay back Calhern - after all, she went to jail to cover for him!
***** Frisco Jenny (12/30/32) William A. Wellman ~ Ruth Chatterton, Donald Cook, Louis Calhern
A "star vehicle" for Chatterton; "Frisco Jenny" is, otherwise, unsatisfying. Chatterton and the cast are entertaining, though; and, she performs especially well during the film's final scenes. During the trial, William A. Wellman's direction is somewhat dizzying. And, why does Chatterton save money, for years, to pay back Calhern - after all, she went to jail to cover for him!
***** Frisco Jenny (12/30/32) William A. Wellman ~ Ruth Chatterton, Donald Cook, Louis Calhern