Considering its vintage (1929), this is a particularly well-made and crafted movie. Its main problem is that it casts Clara Bow in a role that is not likely to endear her to her legions of fans - and I do mean "legions"! In 1928-29, Clara Bow was the most popular movie star in America, eclipsing even Mary Pickford and Douglas Fairbanks. The reason her popularity suddenly evaporated had nothing to do with her voice at all (as textbooks and Hollywood "histories" have it). There's nothing wrong with her voice. It's fine! It's excellent! It records well! But there's a lot wrong with her role in this movie. It's not a glamour role - and therefore she doesn't look glamorous. Her clothes are ill-fitting, her hair is untidy, she's lensed from unflattering angles and she seems to have gained weight.
Even worse, she's overshadowed in the glam department by Kay Francis, who easily walks off with the pic, even though her part is actually rather small. But it's an important role, and Kay makes the best of it.
The same can't be said, alas, for the rest of the players (with the exceptions of Anders Randolf and Joyce Compton) including David Newell and most especially, Richard Arlen. The director fortunately comes to the movie's rescue from time to time. The special effects scene in which our hero falls from high is particularly effective, but part of its power is lost when Arlen survives with only minor injury. Ridiculous! Otherwise, the seedy circus atmosphere is spot on!
Even worse, she's overshadowed in the glam department by Kay Francis, who easily walks off with the pic, even though her part is actually rather small. But it's an important role, and Kay makes the best of it.
The same can't be said, alas, for the rest of the players (with the exceptions of Anders Randolf and Joyce Compton) including David Newell and most especially, Richard Arlen. The director fortunately comes to the movie's rescue from time to time. The special effects scene in which our hero falls from high is particularly effective, but part of its power is lost when Arlen survives with only minor injury. Ridiculous! Otherwise, the seedy circus atmosphere is spot on!