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Storyline
During World War I, Mata Hari is a German spy, working in Paris. She has already seduced the Russian general Shubin, and has now set her eyes on lieutenant Rosanov, a young up-and-coming officer. In order to get her hand on secret documents in his possession, she spends a night with him. But the secret police is on to her, only waiting to get enough evidence to arrest her.
Written by
Mattias Thuresson
Plot Summary
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Taglines:
WHWN MATA HARI DANCED! Here is Greta Garbo's greatest picture---a romance based on the true life story of the exotic woman spy, Mata Hari. Truly all-star, this production will leave in mind and heart the memory of an unforgettable thrill! (original herald)
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Did You Know?
Trivia
This was the third most popular movie at the U.S. box office for 1931.
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Goofs
Towards the climax of the film, when Mata Hari confronts General Shubin, she is wearing a ring on her left ring finger. She hurries out of the room, and moments later she encounters Rosanoff. He takes her by the hand and the ring is no longer there.
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Quotes
Dubois:
[
taunting General Shubin over Mata Hari's assignation with Rosanoff]
We older men merely furnish the soft lights and champagne... the mood, as it were. Youth whistles, and we... we spend the rest of the evening reading a book.
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Connections
Version of
Mata Hari (1985)
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Soundtracks
Mystery
(uncredited)
Music by
Sydney Baynes See more »
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Details
Release Date:
26 December 1931 (USA)
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Box Office
Budget:
$558,000
(estimated)
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Company Credits
Technical Specs
Sound Mix:
Mono
(Western Electric Sound System)
Aspect Ratio:
1.20 : 1
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full technical specs »
As the notorious "Mata Hari", Greta Garbo makes both the role and the character her own, providing a portrayal that is much deeper and more complex than the historical character probably was. The rest of the cast and production work well enough, but they are mostly there only to provide Garbo the backdrop and the foils that she uses to develop the main character.
The story focuses Mata Hari's liaisons with two Russian officers, an older general played by Lionel Barrymore, and a young aviator played by Ramon Novarro, with an implacable Secret Service man (played by C. Henry Gordon) trying to stop her. Each of the three plays his part well, while allowing Garbo to take the spotlight. Lewis Stone also makes good use of his limited screen time, and Karen Morley has some memorable moments as another spy.
The story probably has little in common with the historical facts, and while the historical character is an interesting one, it seems certain that Garbo's character is more so, combining her obvious appeal with a depth of feeling and a complicated set of priorities, as few other actresses could have done. Designing the story and characters with her in mind works well, making for good drama and one of Garbo's many effective performances.