When you say the name Tallulah Bankhead to people in this era, beyond hardcore classic movie fans, they would not probably even know who that person is. That is a shame because she is a legend. She starred in some amazing stage productions during her career including, Dark Victory and Rain and one of my favorite films Alfred Hitchcock's Lifeboat.
In 1932 Tallulah co-starred alongside Robert Montgomery in the romantic drama Faithless directed by Harry Beaumount. Now Warner Archive have chosen to give this Hollywood pre-code classic a new restoration and Blu-ray release.
Wealthy Carol Morgan (Tallulah Bankhead), spurns the affections of Bill Wade (Robert Montgomery) because he earns a mere $20,000 a year. But when Morgan loses her fortune in the Depression, rather than accepting the man who truly loves her, she becomes the mistress of a still-wealthy, abusive man she does not love. Morgan's life spirals downward, until she finally sinks to selling her body on the streets. But her first customer turns out be an understanding policeman who takes her to Wade, who still loves her--and whom Morgan now both appreciates and loves in return.
The subject matter is pretty intense for 1932. Of course that is understandable as this was pre-code. Tallulah and Robert Montgomery have nice on screen chemistry. The film was masterfully directed by Harry Beaumont a director whose career spanned from the silent era to the musicals and beyond.
Faithless makes its Blu-Ray debut from Warner Archive. It is presented in 1080p in 1.37:1 aspect ratio. The audio is a DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. There is also English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing.
Warner Archive have restored this pre-code classic in 4K restoration from the best surviving preservation elements. It is hard to believe how good this film restoration looks. When you think this film is 92-year-old. That is almost a century! It's not perfect, but it is pretty near. There are a few spots of picture softness. But that is no miniscule it really shouldn't turn anyone away from this release.
Now in addition to a new 4K restoration Warner Archive added some very cool bonus features to this release that will make any classic film fan feel 'faithful' in physical media. Take a look at what is included.
* Rambling Down Radio Row #1B: A Vitaphone short where talents perform musical numbers.
* The Trans-Atlantic Mystery: A couple of murderous crooks try to smuggle the famous Stanhope diamonds into New York.
* The Symphonic Murder Mystery: Inspectors are trying to solve a murder at a symphony hall.
Warner Archive puts so much love into their releases. Restoring these classic films to amazing quality and then adding additional bonus. Like the above short subjects. Warner Archive Blu-rays are like a classic night at the movies. Short subjects and then the Feature Presentation. Too Cool!
If you love pre-code romantic dramas, you need to have Faithless in your collection. And this Warner Archive Blu-ray is the perfect way to own it. Head over to Moviezyng and order your copy today!
Out of 4 Film Reels (4 being the best) Warner Archive's Blu-ray of Faithless receives...
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