Mannequin (1938)

Film Summary
"Mannequin" is a 1938 American drama movie directed by Frank Borzage, starring Joan Crawford and Spencer Tracy. This movie tells a touching story filled with sacrifices, redemption, ambition, love, and the essential American Dream.

Plot
The film is set in New York with Crawford playing the role of Jessie Cassidy, a girl on the lower rungs of the social ladder, living in a dreary working-class neighborhood with her out of work, alcoholic other half, Eddie (Alan Curtis). Imagining rising above her miserable life, she wrongly believes weding Eddie would lead them to a much better life.

Romantic Interest and Ambition
Upon recognizing her slipup, Jessie tries to break free and allies with John L. Hennessey (Spencer Tracy), a self-made guy who owns an effective shipping company. John, smitten by Jessie, offers her an escape by proposing marriage to her, ensuring her of a life she always desired. However, Jessie's pride and aspiration won't let her accept the proposal. She intends to secure a high-society life on her own terms and declares she will belong of that world on her rightful merit.

Aspiration and Achievement
Regardless of her lack of education and social standing, Jessie makes every effort to climb the societal ladder. She creates a relationship with a wealthy model, Kay Hilton (Mary Philips), and through her, she fulfills her wealthy fan, Clifford Hartley (Leo Gorcey). She enters into a calculated marriage with Hartley, trapping him with a false pregnancy claim. Weding Hartley takes Jessie to the classy society she aspired to. However, the ignorant Jessie quickly discovers that her new way of life does not bring her joy.

The Turning Point
The movie takes a pivotal turn when Jessie realizes her mistake and expresses her genuine love for John. On the other hand, Eddie surfaces and attempts to extort money from Jessie's wealthy hubby. In a run-in, Eddie mistakenly passes away, making Jessie a prime suspect. The drama intensifies with Jessie facing a murder trial.

Resolution
John, in a twist of fate, ends up being the jury foreman in Jessie's trial and, behind the scenes, guides the jury to a not-guilty decision. After Jessie is acquitted, John exposes his involvement in her freedom, and she lastly admits her love for him. As a result, Jessie divorces Hartley and marries John, hence understanding that true joy lies not in wealth and societal standing but in love and empathy.

Overall Impact
"Mannequin" delivers a strong message about the pursuit of the American Dream, the downfall of greed, and the emptiness of social status. Joan Crawford successfully depicts a character navigating these styles, while Spencer Tracy adds a layer of moral grounding, making the audience root for their ultimate union. The film leaves an enduring impression on audiences, underlining that dreams are not always what they appear, and real satisfaction often lies in easy, plain living.

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