A fine example of that time when motion pictures struggled with talk - here, the microphone is unkind to everyone; if anything, the younger players are worse off due to overall lack of experience (both on stage and screen). Though it was not true at the time, the main attraction herein is Myrna Loy (as Nubi); she plays a gypsy temptress who symbolically arrives with "The Squall" and manages to attract every man in sight. Also arousing is beautiful Loretta Young (as Irma). "It's the fire in my veins," explains main target Carroll Nye (as Paul), "driving me mad!"
Both Ms. Loy and Ms. Young are pretty bad, which just shows how fortunes can change. Upon release, the biggest name in the generally substantial cast was Alice Joyce (as Maria). Appearing in her first taking film, Ms. Joyce fares a little better, but not to 1929 audiences with high expectations for an admired actress. Improved in a few more films, Joyce nevertheless retired. Also having a good future, director Alexander Korda gets to display a windmill and rain nicely, but can't get the crude production off the ground. The story is also a struggle to take seriously.
*** The Squall (5/9/29) Alexander Korda ~ Myrna Loy, Alice Joyce, Carroll Nye, Loretta Young
Both Ms. Loy and Ms. Young are pretty bad, which just shows how fortunes can change. Upon release, the biggest name in the generally substantial cast was Alice Joyce (as Maria). Appearing in her first taking film, Ms. Joyce fares a little better, but not to 1929 audiences with high expectations for an admired actress. Improved in a few more films, Joyce nevertheless retired. Also having a good future, director Alexander Korda gets to display a windmill and rain nicely, but can't get the crude production off the ground. The story is also a struggle to take seriously.
*** The Squall (5/9/29) Alexander Korda ~ Myrna Loy, Alice Joyce, Carroll Nye, Loretta Young