Penthouse, a Riveting Noir Tale Filled With Twists and Turns!

Penthouse, a Riveting Noir Tale Filled With Twists and Turns!

“Penthouse” is a 1935 pre-Code film noir directed by the prolific Paul Sloane, a master of capturing gritty urban landscapes on celluloid. It offers an unflinching glimpse into the lives of those entangled in a web of deceit and desire within the opulent but morally ambiguous setting of a luxurious New York penthouse apartment. This intriguing story dives deep into themes of ambition, betrayal, greed, and love, all intertwined with the seductive backdrop of Prohibition-era New York City.

The film’s plot centers around a young and ambitious social climber, Vivian (played by the captivating Kay Francis), who desperately seeks to escape her humble beginnings and ascend the social ladder. She finds herself drawn into the orbit of a wealthy and enigmatic playboy named Rex Bellmont (portrayed by the dashing Cary Grant in one of his early breakout roles). Rex is known for his lavish lifestyle and seemingly carefree nature, but beneath the surface lurks a dark secret: he’s entangled in an illegal smuggling operation.

Vivian becomes increasingly infatuated with Rex, blinded by the allure of his wealth and status. She willingly turns a blind eye to his questionable activities, justifying them as necessary steps to achieving her own aspirations. As Vivian delves deeper into Rex’s world, she encounters a cast of intriguing characters:

  • Mrs. Ethel Bellmont (played by the formidable Lita Grey): Rex’s mother, a domineering and fiercely protective figure who suspects Vivian’s motives and actively tries to thwart their relationship.
  • Henry “Hank” Gordon (played by the charismatic John Halliday): A rival in love for Vivian, Hank represents a more stable and honest path, but his affections are continually overshadowed by Rex’s undeniable charm.

As the story progresses, Vivian finds herself caught in a dangerous crossfire. Her infatuation with Rex blinds her to the truth about his smuggling activities, putting her own life at risk. The arrival of the hard-boiled Detective “Mac” McArthur (played by the stoic George Bancroft) adds another layer of tension. Mac, relentless in his pursuit of justice, begins to suspect Rex’s involvement in criminal activity and sees Vivian as a potential key witness.

The film reaches its climactic turning point when Vivian discovers the truth about Rex’s smuggling operation. Faced with this horrifying revelation, she must confront her own moral compass and decide whether to remain loyal to Rex or expose his crimes.

“Penthouse” stands out not only for its compelling plot but also for its stunning visual style. The film captures the glamorous excesses of the Roaring Twenties, juxtaposing opulent penthouse parties with gritty underworld scenes. The camerawork is masterful, utilizing shadows and light to create a sense of mystery and suspense.

Production Highlights:

Feature Description
Director Paul Sloane
Studio Universal Pictures
Release Date September 13, 1935
Running Time 72 minutes
Cinematography Charles Van Enger
Music Irving Berlin and Max Steiner

The film’s score, a blend of Irving Berlin’s catchy tunes and Max Steiner’s dramatic compositions, perfectly complements the on-screen action. The interplay between music and visuals adds another dimension to the viewing experience, heightening the emotional impact of key scenes.

“Penthouse” is a captivating glimpse into the shadowy world of pre-Code Hollywood. It explores the seductive allure of wealth and power while highlighting the dangers of unchecked ambition and betrayal.

With its stellar cast, stylish direction, and unforgettable plot twists, “Penthouse” remains a fascinating and entertaining watch even today. The film serves as a reminder that true happiness often lies not in material possessions but in genuine connection and moral integrity.