Ladies Should Listen (1934)

Ladies Should Listen Poster

The switchboard operator in an apartment building falls in love with a businessman who lives in the building, whom she has gotten to know only over the phone. When she discovers that the man's current girlfriend is actually part of a scheme to swindle him out of some mineral rights he owns, she devises a plot to save him and expose the con artists.

Introduction
"Ladies Should Listen" is a romantic comedy film directed by Frank Tuttle in 1934. Cary Grant stars in the movie as Julian De Lussac, a Parisian playboy who becomes captured in a web of romantic complications and humorous misunderstandings.

Plot Synopsis
"Ladies Should Listen" opens with Julian De Lussac, a wealthy, carefree bachelor who takes pleasure in a glamorous way of life in Paris filled with celebrations and females. His romantic dalliances cause a host of entertaining misconceptions and problems. He ends up being romantically involved with an opera vocalist Marcelle aka 'La Palermo' and a switchboard operator Susie Flammarion who works at the house.

While all the females in the building are fascinated with him, the primary storyline focuses on Anna Mirelle, a devoted switchboard operator. She falls in love with Julian, even though she has actually only heard his voice over the phone. In the middle of the various relationship difficulties, the plot takes a humorous turn when Anna's buddy Susie Flammarion misunderstands Anna's objectives and thinks she's preparing to kill Julian.

Main Characters and Performances
Cary Grant, as Julian De Lussac, brings beauty and wit to his character, representing a character who befits his credibility as a charismatic, debonair leading male of movie theater. Frances Drake plays the function of Anna Mirelle, the sweet and innocent switchboard operator who succumbs to Julian's charm simply by hearing his voice over the phone.

Themes and Style
"Ladies Should Listen" is reminiscent of the screwball funnies popular during the 1930s-era Hollywood. The movie masterfully illustrates the humorous misunderstandings and mix-ups in the sophisticated world of Parisian upper class. With its stylish and light-hearted take on romance and heartbreak, the film remains an amusing watch for viewers who enjoy classic motion pictures.

Conclusion
Despite being a lesser known film in Cary Grant's filmography, "Ladies Should Listen" exemplifies the sort of traditional romantic comedy that set a high bar for films of its kind in the Golden Age of Hollywood. With its humorous plot and charismatic performances, it sustains as an entertaining glance into the style and sensibilities of 1930s cinema. The movie ends with Julian recognizing his love for Anna and proposing to her.

"Ladies Should Listen" delivers a strong mix of romance and comedy, supplemented by strong efficiencies, making it a must-watch for fans of traditional Hollywood.

Top Cast

  • Cary Grant (small)
    Cary Grant
    Julian De Lussac
  • Frances Drake (small)
    Frances Drake
    Anna Mirelle
  • Edward Everett Horton (small)
    Edward Everett Horton
    Paul Vernet
  • Nydia Westman (small)
    Nydia Westman
    Susie Flamberg
  • Rafael Corio (small)
    Rafael Corio
    Ramon Cintos
  • Rosita Moreno (small)
    Rosita Moreno
    Marguerite Cintos
  • Ann Sheridan (small)
    Ann Sheridan
    Adele
  • George Barbier (small)
    George Barbier
    Joseph Flamberg
  • Charles Ray (small)
    Charles Ray
    Henri, the porter
  • Charles Arnt (small)
    Charles Arnt
    Albert, the manservant
  • Henrietta Burnside
    Telephone Operator