The Women

1939 Comedy - Drama

Cast:

Mary Haines: Norma Shearer

Crystal Allen: Joan Crawford

Sylvia Fowler: Rosalind Russell

Countess De Lave: Mary Boland

Peggy Day: Joan Foantaine

Little Mary: Virginia Weidler

Director:

George Cukor

A circle of New York socialites discovers that a friend's spouse is involved in an affair, leading to delighted gossip, conflicts, betrayal, and retaliation.

Mary Haines (Shearer) learns from a gossipy manicurist that her husband is unfaithful. Her cousin Sylvia (Russell) and several other women enjoy creating as much chaos as they can.

Crystal Allen (Crawford) is the cunning mistress aiming to take advantage of Mary's wealthy husband.

A significant portion of the drama (and comedy) unfolds at a luxurious salon named Sydney's, where the staff exhibit a delightful disdain for their wealthy clientele.

Mary concludes that, out of self-respect, she needs to go to Reno for a divorce. Coincidentally, two other women from the group are also there, including Sylvia, who ultimately receives her just desserts.

The movie is filled with opulent settings and clever dialogue. It's also unique in that the entire cast if female. No males are shown at all, including all of the animals and artwork.

This film is presented in black and white, except for a technicolor fashion show segment that appears 45 minutes into the movie.

The portrayal of marriage in this film is, of course, old fashioned by today's standards but Mary's refusal to accept her husband's behavior can certainly be perceived as feminism.

Norma Shearer who portrays Mary was a famous silent screen star, so her performance can seem a bit over the top at times but otherwise is quite affecting.

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