Strange Interlude

Strange Interlude is a 1932 drama film directed by Robert Z. Leonard, and adapted from the Pulitzer Prize-winning play of the same name by Eugene O'Neill. The film stars Norma Shearer, Clark Gable, and Alexander Kirkland in lead roles.

The movie follows the story of Nina Leeds (Norma Shearer), a young woman who is deeply affected by the loss of her fiancé, Gordon Shaw (Robert Young), who died during World War I. Nina struggles to come to terms with his death and finds solace in the company of Dr. Edmund Darrell (Clark Gable), a family friend and respected psychiatrist.

While Nina is involved in a relationship with Sam Evans (Alexander Kirkland), an older man from a wealthy family, she secretly still longs for Gordon. As time passes, Nina and Sam eventually marry and have two children, although their relationship remains unfulfilling for her. It is then that Nina meets a young man named Ned Darrell (also played by Robert Young), the son of Dr. Darrell, and soon develops strong feelings for him.

The story takes a unique turn when Nina is able to hear the inner thoughts and desires of the people around her. She uses this knowledge to gain insight into their true thoughts and motivations, including those of the men who have been in her life.

As Nina's relationships become more complicated, the film delves deeper into the psychological effects of a woman's sexual and emotional desire. It presents a gripping portrait of the toll taken on a person's mental state when they are forced to navigate complex societal expectations around love, romance, and marriage.

As the story unfolds, Nina finds herself in a series of love triangles that threaten to destroy her happiness and sanity. The film explores themes of guilt, regret, and the fine line between love and obsession. At the center of it all is Norma Shearer's tour-de-force performance as Nina Leeds.

Clark Gable, on the other hand, delivers a powerful performance as Dr. Darrell, who is torn between his feelings for Nina and his professional duty as a psychiatrist. His subtle expressions and mannerisms perfectly capture the complex emotions of a man who is wrestling with his loyalty and desires.

Alexander Kirkland portrays Sam Evans as the older man who has struggled to win Nina's affection but fails to satisfy her. His performance captures the character's inner turmoil as he becomes increasingly aware of his wife's affair. Kirkland's portrayal of Sam is nuanced and sympathetic, showing the complicated nature of a man who was brought up in luxury and thinks that he can buy love.

The film's visual style is stunning, with exquisite black and white cinematography that perfectly captures the mood and tone of the story. The sets and costumes are also impeccably designed to reflect the fashions and styles of the era.

In conclusion, Strange Interlude is a brilliantly acted and directed film that presents an unforgettable story of love, loss, and desire. It provides insightful commentary on social norms and the emotional toll of societal expectations. With Norma Shearer leading a star-studded cast, Strange Interlude is a must-watch for all fans of classic cinema.