Housewife (1934)

Housewife Poster

Nan Reynolds encourages her copywriter husband Bill to open his own agency. Nearly out of business, he finally gets a client. Former girlfriend Patricia Berkeley writes a very successful commercial for the client and neats up their old romance. Wife and girlfriend struggle over Bill.

Film Overview
"Housewife" is an American drama released on August 8, 1934, directed by Alfred E. Green. The film includes some significant names of that time, consisting of George Brent, Bette Davis, and Ann Dvorak. It is a story of ambition, love triangle, professional competition, and the strength of a bond called marriage.

Plot Summary
The story, set in the backdrop of the marketing industry, focuses on the life of an economically struggling couple, Nan Reynolds (Ann Dvorak) and William Reynolds (George Brent). William is an underpaid ad copywriter, whereas Nan is a housewife, harboring a desire for a much better life. The Reynolds' life begins to change when Nan persuades her partner to start their own ad agency, thinking in his skills more than he does himself.

With sheer decision and an ingenious approach, William starts his company and soon finds significant success. With his growing success, Patricia "Pat" Berkeley (Bette Davis) a business artist signs up with the company and plays a crucial function in its upward trajectory.

Subplot and Climax
While the expert life takes a leap, the personal lives of the couple start facing turmoil. Patricia, enthusiastic and sophisticated, begins to establish feelings for William and isn't hesitant to reveal them. On the other hand, the when helpful and dedicated Nan starts sensation insecure and ignored. To contribute to her troubles, William, beguiled by Patricia's charm, starts an affair, pressing his marriage towards the brink of a breakdown.

Heartbroken Nan chooses to leave William but her choice to consult her attorney inadvertently shatters Patricia's plans of weding William. Patricia at this moment finds that William truly enjoys Nan and chooses to leave, paving a method for Nan and William to restore their relationship.

Conclusion and Recap
In the end, William understands his mistake, reveals his fondness for his better half and apologizes for his impropriety. Nan, happily acknowledges his apology and the movie ends on a high note where she, not only accepts him back but also surprises him by revealing her pregnancy.

In summary, the 1934 film "Housewife" is a rollercoaster romantic drama where a housewife's unwavering faith in her partner's skill leads him to professional success but also causes distress in their personal lives. The appealing storyline combined with amazing efficiencies by Bette Davis, Ann Dvorak, and George Brent, makes this movie a must-watch for timeless drama lovers.

Top Cast

  • George Brent (small)
    George Brent
    William H. Reynolds
  • Ann Dvorak (small)
    Ann Dvorak
    Nan Reynolds
  • Bette Davis (small)
    Bette Davis
    Patricia Berkeley
  • John Halliday (small)
    John Halliday
    Paul Duprey
  • Ruth Donnelly (small)
    Ruth Donnelly
    Dora Wilson
  • Hobart Cavanaugh (small)
    Hobart Cavanaugh
    George Wilson
  • Robert Barrat (small)
    Robert Barrat
    Sam Blake
  • Joseph Cawthorn (small)
    Joseph Cawthorn
    Krueger (as Joe Cawthorne)
  • Phil Regan (small)
    Phil Regan
    "Mike Hathaway", Radio Singer
  • Willard Robertson (small)
    Willard Robertson
    Judge Edwin A. Matthews
  • Ronnie Cosby (small)
    Ronnie Cosby
    Buddy Reynolds