This is a highly engrossing film from the early 1930s, with excellent direction and attention to detail, including camera angles and scene composition. Everybody seems to have discernible failings, making the concerns that the characters feel seem realistic. The difficulties and angst the characters feel through their relationships translate to the viewer quite well for the early year that this picture was made. The acting is wonderful, including the always fun-to-see Jack Oakie, and the gorgeous Shirley Grey. Ms. Grey conveys subtle emotion beautifully with her body language and her expressive eyes. She seems so real. Mr. Ames was introduced as a bit of an unsympathetic manipulator early on and there was even an aura of possible villainy with his sneaking into Grey's apartment (an interesting complication for the viewer). The many scene settings and locales were varied and depicted life in that time well, including several domiciles, the wrestling arena, and the soda fountain. I feel like I was part of life in early 1930s NYC. One thing I appreciated was how the character Doyle's signature comment "check" was not beaten into the ground after a few offerings early on in the picture. This was a smart move. There was also use of background music, which wasn't yet common in 1932. This film is adult in treatment and was highly enjoyed. I am pleased to give this film a high rating even though it came from a relatively small releasing company and seen on a choppy and somewhat blurry print, but its quality comes through well.
Review of Uptown New York
