The Temporary Widow (1930)

Kitty Kellermann is put on trial for murdering her husband, a failed painter. When her counsel resigns from his mandate, the mysterious Peter Bille steps in, though it becomes apparent that he actually is not an advocate but Kitty's lover and moreover confesses the murder. The widow has to admit that the pictures by her deceased spouse sell much better, only for him to suddenly appear alive.

Summary
"The Temporary Widow" is an interesting British film from 1930, directed by Gustav Ucicky and Theo Frenkel and produced by the British arm of Paramount Pictures. This romantic funny mystery film centers around a courtroom love, loaded with the intrigue, witty discussion, and amusing frivolities common of the film's category and time period.

Main Plot
"The Temporary Widow" revolves primarily around a murder trial. The plot is started when effective lawyer Peter Bille concerns the defense of Lena, a cabaret vocalist accused of killing her spouse. Peter Bille is persuaded of Lena's innocence and, in an extraordinary move, weds her to avoid her from being questioned in court. When another body is found, Peter Bille sets out to unwind the intricate series of occasions, leading to a gripping courtroom finale.

The movie discovers humor in its depiction of marriage law, which determines that a partner can not be obliged to testify versus her spouse. Peter Bille uses this policy, in a computed move, to avoid Lena from being outfitted in suspicion.

Characters and Performances
Actor Laurence Olivier, in an early function, plays Peter Bille with an attractive mix of roguishness and beauty. His fast wit and sharp legal mind, integrated with his elegant existence, creates an extremely attractive character. Actress Lilian Harvey, a significant star in Germany at the time, plays Lena. Her innocent beauty and emotive appeal, combined with her strong efficiency, lend weight to the character's innocence in the face of the charges laid before her.

Reception
'The Temporary Widow' is considered an enthralling movie that perfectly captures the British legal system of the time. Its blend of funny and mystery make it a remarkable example of early sound movie theater. However, its history has actually been somewhat forgotten due to its early status as a crossover film featuring English and German versions.

Conclusion
In conclusion, 'The Temporary Widow' features a mix of comedy and legal secret. The wittily conceived plot, focusing on the sharp legal mind of Peter Bille who handles to manipulate the law to his customer's benefit, catches the viewers' attention throughout the entire film. The courtroom drama that unfolds is set out with a sense of thriller and served with a dosage of humor. With the added beauty of Laurence Olivier and Lilian Harvey, the movie is successful in integrating public interest in the British legal system with a cleverly constructed comedic narrative. The unique characters and intriguing story make 'The Temporary Widow', even after almost a century, an interesting movie to see.

Top Cast

  • Lilian Harvey (small)
    Lilian Harvey
    Kitty Kellermann
  • Laurence Olivier (small)
    Laurence Olivier
    Peter Bille
  • Athole Stewart (small)
    Athole Stewart
    President of the Court of Justice
  • Gillian Dean
    Witness Anny Sedal
  • Frank Stanmore
    Witness Kulicke
  • Felix Aylmer (small)
    Felix Aylmer
    Public Prosecutor
  • Frederick Lloyd
    Counsel for the Defense
  • Henry Caine
    Councillor Lindberg
  • Danchell E. Hambro
    Foreman of the Jury