The Trial of Vivienne Ware (1932)

The Trial of Vivienne Ware Poster

Vivienne Ware is defended by her ex-beau when she's accused of killing her faithless fiance.

Film Overview
"The Trial of Vivienne Ware" is a vigorous, fast-paced melodrama directed by William K. Howard, providing an interesting cinematic experience in simply over five-five minutes. The movie was launched by Fox Film on May 7, 1932. The outstanding cast includes Joan Bennet as Vivienne Ware, Donald Cook as John Sutherland - Vivienne's lawyer and fan, and Lilian Bond as Dollie Madison, who is intricately linked to the murder secret.

Plot Summary
The movie begins by revealing Vivienne Ware and John Sutherland in an extreme argument about Vivienne's future with stromy-tempered, romantic interest Dane Grover, represented by Alan Mowbray. The elopement prepares in between Vivienne and Dane are quickly disrupted by the murder news of Dane Grover. Vivienne Ware is immediately accused of devoting the criminal activity, resulting in the trial which forms the main plot of the motion picture.

Character Dynamics
The character dynamics in the film are vivid and complex. Vivienne's feelings towards John and Dane modification considerably throughout the plot, adding a level of intrigue. Dane's relationship with Dollie Madison also influences the plot heavily. Dollie Madison, Dane's secret enthusiast, is a standout character in the plot who adds an unanticipated twist to the story. Meanwhile, the antagonist of the plot is a sadistic found guilty with a vendetta against Vivienne, who gets away from jail when he hears of her trial.

The Trial
The trial in the name of the film, "The Trial of Vivienne Ware", shows the classic courtroom setup and pits the protagonist versus difficult odds. John Sutherland, as Vivienne's lawyer, has to fight versus the strong proof pointing towards her regret. Vivienne's situation becomes more vital with the escape of the convict who is determined to ensure she spends for supposed past wrongs. Nevertheless, as the trial progresses, Vivienne's defense reinforces with emerging realities and unforeseen discoveries.

The Resolution
Towards the conclusion of the film, the ridiculous found guilty invades the courtroom, resulting in a crazy turmoil. In this chaos, Dollie Madison exposes the convict as the genuine killer, therefore saving Vivienne from wrongful conviction. Concurrently, Vivienne clears John's misunderstandings about her participation with Dane Grover, setting the course for their future together.

Production and Performance
The movie's short-comings are made up for by the hectic editing, innovative moving viewpoints through a spinning newspaper-style transition, and outstanding performances by both Joan Bennett and Donald Cook. Bennett provides a sensational efficiency, making Vivienne Ware a character filled with depth and development, while Cook holds an outstanding command over his character's progressing feelings throughout the narrative.

Total Summary
"The Trial of Vivienne Ware" is essential of the 30's Hollywood era, showcasing an ideal mix of love, mystery, courtroom drama, and thriller. Despite its fast pace and compact length, the film provides a well-rounded narrative with a gripping plot and engaging character series. It was successful in setting a bench-mark in the world of mystery-romance drama, guaranteeing an interesting, immersive experience for its audience, and maintaining its beauty and importance over eight decades after its release.

Top Cast

  • Joan Bennett (small)
    Joan Bennett
    Vivienne Ware
  • Donald Cook (small)
    Donald Cook
    John Sutherland
  • Zasu Pitts (small)
    Zasu Pitts
    Gladys Fairweather
  • Richard 'Skeets' Gallagher (small)
    Richard 'Skeets' Gallagher
    Graham McNally
  • Lilian Bond (small)
    Lilian Bond
    Dolores Divine
  • Alan Dinehart (small)
    Alan Dinehart
    Prosecutor
  • Herbert Mundin (small)
    Herbert Mundin
    William Boggs
  • Howard Phillips (small)
    Howard Phillips
    Minetti aka Joe Garson
  • William Pawley (small)
    William Pawley
    Joseph Gilk
  • Noel Madison (small)
    Noel Madison
    Angelo Paroni
  • Jameson Thomas (small)
    Jameson Thomas
    Damon Fenwick