The Painted Veil was the first Greta Garbo movie I saw where I was forced to admit she gave an excellent performance. Since then, I've seen her in Conquest and Camille, bit I still maintain that it takes a special movie for me to appreciate her talent. Completely ignored by the Academy, the Hot Toasty Rag Awards gave both leads their only Rags. Herbert Marshall was never even nominated for an Oscar, so if you're a fan of his talent, you've got to check out this classic drama.
The beginning of the movie is really adorable. Greta is daughter to Jean Hersholt, back in the old country, and Doctor Herbert Marshall is in love with her. Courtship is difficult for him, but the insecure suitor eventually wins himself a bride. At first their marriage is sweet, but when Greta is left alone for long periods of time while Herbie is off saving lives, she gets into trouble. George Brent is the other man, a suave playboy who likes going out for a good time.
If you've seen the remake, you know what will happen in the story, but if you haven't, be prepared for some surprises. This is one of the great serious dramas of the early '30s, with tons of emotions and very well-crafted scenes. If I can recommend it, and I don't usually like either lead, you know it's good.
The beginning of the movie is really adorable. Greta is daughter to Jean Hersholt, back in the old country, and Doctor Herbert Marshall is in love with her. Courtship is difficult for him, but the insecure suitor eventually wins himself a bride. At first their marriage is sweet, but when Greta is left alone for long periods of time while Herbie is off saving lives, she gets into trouble. George Brent is the other man, a suave playboy who likes going out for a good time.
If you've seen the remake, you know what will happen in the story, but if you haven't, be prepared for some surprises. This is one of the great serious dramas of the early '30s, with tons of emotions and very well-crafted scenes. If I can recommend it, and I don't usually like either lead, you know it's good.