Review of Downstairs

Downstairs (1932)
8/10
Downstairs - Upper-Class Material
4 July 2020
Highly talented veteran Director of Photography Harold Rosson (Wizard Of Oz/ Singin' In The Rain) and Director Montana Bell give this early 30s drama a high degree of polish. With a story written by its silent screen mega-star, John Gilbert, Downstairs tells the tale of an opportunistic gigolo who connives his way into the lives of his employers as a chauffeur, with dishonourable intentions. This is a surprising change of persona from the heroic, debonair lover Gilbert was famous for and he plays his rather vile character with conviction.

Not only does it all look good it's well played by an impressive international cast - giving it an above average believability. This title was bought as part of a 'Forbidden Hollywood' pre-code DVD 4 pack and turned out to be better than the title purchased for. MGMs boss (Louis B) did not care for it or its star, so it looks like it was glossed over - pity, as it was better than many others of its day. Many up and coming stars can also be seen in this rarity, and the archive DVD is quite pleasing.
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