if you liked Lubitsch's Trouble in Paradise, this is a lesser but still quite enjoyable version. Directed by Borzage and produced by Lubitsch, it is difficult to find but features a marvelous Dietrich and adorable Coop. The opening scenes quickly show you why Paris by Paramount was often considered better than Paris as itself. Charming lines like 'I'm going to put my hand in your pocket' were clever ways to overcome the Hays era constraints. The elegance of the era is well presented here combined with the straight up-ness of the 'good American' culture. There are also poignant references to the oncoming WWII through lines like 'Don't underestimate America, it's a big country', quite prescient since this was still 1936. If you like American Romantic Comedy of the 30's, you will enjoy this film...a shame they don't make 'em like this anymore.
44 Reviews
Excellent comedy
nnnn450891919 April 2007
This is one of those films that I had heard of and never thought it would be this good.The second teaming of Gary Cooper and Marlene Dietrich, six years after "Morocco", is a sheer delight.They have a beautiful chemistry in this movie.She is alluring and mysterious,and he is the naive but charming American everyman.This is perhaps the first time Cooper used this screen persona,which he did so well in later comedies.There are two hilarious supporting performances by Alan Mowbray and Ernest Cossart as Dietrich's easy victims of the jewel theft.This comedy is what I would call sophisticated,elegant and witty. Here we have Cooper and Dietrich at their best and watch them having fun together.
Continental suspense done excellently
funkyfry9 October 2002
Warning: Spoilers
Dietrich is a sexy jewel thief who robs (and lives) by manipulating every male in her vicinity. Cooper, as an auto engineer on a vacation in Spain, proves no different, as he unwittingly carries the stolen gems for her across the Spanish border, but she soon falls for his energetic sincerity (not to mention his tall, broad shoulders) but must continue to lie to him to avoid arrest and disgrace. Eventually, instead of turning thieves together (which would have been more interesting), they decide to go straight and return the jewels. This is the type of thing that started to pop up in these kind of films after the reforms of the early thirties. The film's second half is thus less fun than its first, but it emerges as a solid comedy/romance package.
Highly enjoyable romantic comedy...
Doylenf12 February 2002
Marlene Dietrich and Gary Cooper show an unexpected flair for romantic comedy that goes into high gear during DESIRE. They are surrounded by some expert supporting players, including Alan Mobray as a doctor who is "taken" by Marlene's sly and crafty jewel thief.
The plot is thin but pleasant and moves at a fast clip with ample chemistry between Dietrich and Cooper more than making up for the slight story. When Dietrich accidentally lets Cooper get away with the pearl necklace she has stolen, she has to follow him and lure him back with some fancy scheming. John Halliday has fun with his role as her consort in crime but it is Alan Mobray who has the plum supporting role as the doctor she so charmingly deceives.
Diverting entertainment with Dietrich expert as the exotic jewel thief under Frank Borzage's direction. The whole picture has such a light touch you'd think it was directed by Ernst Lubitsch.
The plot is thin but pleasant and moves at a fast clip with ample chemistry between Dietrich and Cooper more than making up for the slight story. When Dietrich accidentally lets Cooper get away with the pearl necklace she has stolen, she has to follow him and lure him back with some fancy scheming. John Halliday has fun with his role as her consort in crime but it is Alan Mobray who has the plum supporting role as the doctor she so charmingly deceives.
Diverting entertainment with Dietrich expert as the exotic jewel thief under Frank Borzage's direction. The whole picture has such a light touch you'd think it was directed by Ernst Lubitsch.
Dietrich and Cooper steal away some laughs in this breezy romance
FelixtheCat13 June 2001
Marlene Dietrich stars as a European jewel thief who comically pilfers an extremely rare and expensive pearl necklace from a renowned jewelry store in France. Making her escape through Europe, she keeps bumping into a persistent, not-so-bright, vacationing American motor engineer played delightfully by Gary Cooper. After blowing he and his advances off several times, she realized that he unknowingly has obtained her stolen prize, and now she must find him in Spain and play up to him romantically. The film is very breezy and light most of the way, and Cooper and Dietrich do a fine job together. Meanwhile, Ernest Cossart as the jeweler and Alan Mowbray as a psychiatrist who is an unwitting accomplice to Dietrich have a great comedic scene with each other early on in Mowbray's office. 7 out of 10.
Priceless
littlemartinarocena6 January 2008
Directed by Frank Borzage and produced by Ernest Lubitch, that alone is a guarantee of something very special. On top of that, Gary Cooper and Marlene Dietrich in a fast, furious, magical duet. He is a charming Forrest Gump on vacation, she is a born seductress, a jewel thief, a woman on the verge of being beyond redemption. The dialog could have been written today even their talk about war. The camera had a real love affair with Cooper and Dietrich. Their feelings so visible. He in love like a school boy and she discovering him and herself, bit by bit. There are moments of Dietrich staring at Cooper that are a masterpiece on their own right. She is seeing something she has never seen before - innocence at its purest state. Don't miss it.
Pearls before fine (people).
dbdumonteil7 January 2009
The first part will puzzle Borzage's fans because it's not his usual style:it's a comedy and the fans of "little man what now?" "no greater glory" or "lucky star" may not get something out of it.Not that Borzage had not broached comedy before:one of his first talkies was "they had to see Paris" ,a sometimes ponderous satire of American naiveté in France,a country Borzage particularly loved (see "Seventh heaven" or "hearts divided" .
"Desire" begins in France with a nice shot of "les Toits Sous Le Ciel De Paris".The scenes between the jeweler and the shrink are sheer genius and have inspired since many screenwriters.Gary Cooper as the naive (not so naive anyway) American and Marlene Dietrich as the elegant glamor false countess make an ideal pairing:he is hot,joyful,singing and she is cold ,remote,suave and there is a special chemistry between them (there are other ladies with whom Cooper was particularly brilliant:two good examples are found in "unconquered" with Paulette Godard and "cloak and dagger" with Lili Palmer,another German actress ) This is also the movie where you 'll find the longest honk in the history of cinema.The only movie where they're talking international politics without being political.Towards the end ,the movie almost turns dramatic ,notably when aunt Olga tells Dietrich about love which is more valuable when it remains impossible.
This is not among my favorite Borzage (considering " three comrades" "mortal storm" and "strange cargo" were still to come) but it's really much fun to watch and it is to be recommended .
"Desire" begins in France with a nice shot of "les Toits Sous Le Ciel De Paris".The scenes between the jeweler and the shrink are sheer genius and have inspired since many screenwriters.Gary Cooper as the naive (not so naive anyway) American and Marlene Dietrich as the elegant glamor false countess make an ideal pairing:he is hot,joyful,singing and she is cold ,remote,suave and there is a special chemistry between them (there are other ladies with whom Cooper was particularly brilliant:two good examples are found in "unconquered" with Paulette Godard and "cloak and dagger" with Lili Palmer,another German actress ) This is also the movie where you 'll find the longest honk in the history of cinema.The only movie where they're talking international politics without being political.Towards the end ,the movie almost turns dramatic ,notably when aunt Olga tells Dietrich about love which is more valuable when it remains impossible.
This is not among my favorite Borzage (considering " three comrades" "mortal storm" and "strange cargo" were still to come) but it's really much fun to watch and it is to be recommended .
The Lubitsch Touch Is Felt Again
Ron Oliver27 August 2002
The DESIRE for a fabulous string of pearls has unexpected results for the beautiful thief.
Bearing the unmistakable impress of its legendary producer, Ernst Lubitsch, here is a stylish concoction of witty dialogue & sophisticated romance sure to please the most discriminating palate. It is a shame that the film is so badly neglected, as it is a joy from start to finish. With impeccable production values, the film is also a study in handsome sets & costumes.
Gorgeous Marlene Dietrich ravishes the eye with her sheer physical presence, but her beauty should not detract from her acting ability, which is considerable. She presents us with a woman of mystery & slowly, deliberately, allows us to acquaint ourselves with her character. She imbues it all with a real sense of humor, which makes her first scenes, in which she pulls off a classic jewel robbery, all that more delightful.
Rawboned & enthusiastic, there is very little mystery swirling about Gary Cooper, playing an American auto engineer working in Paris. Embracing all life might bring him in his first trip to Spain, he is wide open and ready for passionate romance when Dietrich blows into his life. Their screen time together is charged with sensual electricity which no Production Code could disguise.
Deftly underplaying the menace of his role, John Halliday is dangerously suave as a thieving prince' who manages to keep one step ahead of the law. Ernest Cossart & Alan Mowbray are wonderful as Parisian gentlemen who fall victim to Dietrich's schemes (one has his pearls purloined, the other gets his dignity damaged).
Elderly English actress Zeffie Tilbury is given an unusually choice role, playing the matriarch of the gang of thieves. Arriving late in the proceedings, with only a few scenes she is able to make us wish we knew a lot more about her character.
In much smaller roles, William Frawley as Cooper's boss & Akim Tamiroff, as a Spanish police official blinded by Dietrich's beauty, do well with their few minutes on the screen.
Bearing the unmistakable impress of its legendary producer, Ernst Lubitsch, here is a stylish concoction of witty dialogue & sophisticated romance sure to please the most discriminating palate. It is a shame that the film is so badly neglected, as it is a joy from start to finish. With impeccable production values, the film is also a study in handsome sets & costumes.
Gorgeous Marlene Dietrich ravishes the eye with her sheer physical presence, but her beauty should not detract from her acting ability, which is considerable. She presents us with a woman of mystery & slowly, deliberately, allows us to acquaint ourselves with her character. She imbues it all with a real sense of humor, which makes her first scenes, in which she pulls off a classic jewel robbery, all that more delightful.
Rawboned & enthusiastic, there is very little mystery swirling about Gary Cooper, playing an American auto engineer working in Paris. Embracing all life might bring him in his first trip to Spain, he is wide open and ready for passionate romance when Dietrich blows into his life. Their screen time together is charged with sensual electricity which no Production Code could disguise.
Deftly underplaying the menace of his role, John Halliday is dangerously suave as a thieving prince' who manages to keep one step ahead of the law. Ernest Cossart & Alan Mowbray are wonderful as Parisian gentlemen who fall victim to Dietrich's schemes (one has his pearls purloined, the other gets his dignity damaged).
Elderly English actress Zeffie Tilbury is given an unusually choice role, playing the matriarch of the gang of thieves. Arriving late in the proceedings, with only a few scenes she is able to make us wish we knew a lot more about her character.
In much smaller roles, William Frawley as Cooper's boss & Akim Tamiroff, as a Spanish police official blinded by Dietrich's beauty, do well with their few minutes on the screen.
Wrong Film with Wrong Star Turns out Better for Me
arfdawg-14 October 2019
I streamed Greta Garbo's 1941 movie called Road to Happiness on my Roku from a movie app of Garbo films. Looking at IMDB I saw that Road to Happiness was NOT a Garbo movie.
Moreover, when the movie started, it turned out the film was Gary Cooper and Marlene Dietrich in a 1936 flick called Desire! How did they get that one so wrong?
Anyway, good for me. This turned out to be better than the other movie that was supposed to run. The only issue was that the print seemed to be streaming in very low resolution so it was rather cloudy.
Anyway, it's a pretty good flick. Try to get it in a higher rez.
Moreover, when the movie started, it turned out the film was Gary Cooper and Marlene Dietrich in a 1936 flick called Desire! How did they get that one so wrong?
Anyway, good for me. This turned out to be better than the other movie that was supposed to run. The only issue was that the print seemed to be streaming in very low resolution so it was rather cloudy.
Anyway, it's a pretty good flick. Try to get it in a higher rez.
A Chemistry Lesson by Cooper and Dietrich
claudiaeilcinema12 January 2008
Warning: Spoilers
A chemistry lesson by two masters at their craft. Dietrich and Cooper. What a delight! She looks stronger than him, not physically, but emotionally. A man eater. She could have done whatever she wanted with him but she can't go as far as she might have because she falls in love. What a delight! Cooper's simpleton is a perfect target for a swindler and yet nothing truly harmful comes to him because he's protected by his own decency. What a delight! Lubitch producing this time, manages to infuse his glorious magic in this remarkable equation. I enjoyed it so much that I had to see it again immediately. What a delight!
unbelievable plot but well-executed
planktonrules22 March 2006
First, I give kudos to both the camera man as well as the makeup artists. They did an exceptional job in presenting Ms. Dietrich--she's as pretty as I've ever seen her in a film. While I have never been a fan of her work and never found her particularly attractive, they make the absolute most of what she's got in this film. She did appear appropriately tantalizing and her acting was excellent. Maybe I need to see a few more of her films so I might re-appraise her work.
The plot is very hard to believe--not so much as having Dietrich play a jewel thief, but that she would steal and destroy Gary Cooper's car and he wouldn't be a lot more angry about it! In fact, soon they are both head-over-heels in love!! I remember the last time some lady hit my car (she didn't even steal it)--I was much more likely to punch the lady in the nose than fall her her! Oh well, that's Hollywood of the 1930s. If you suspend disbelief about this, the rest of the film is a very entertaining romance. Plus, the end of the film will surely satisfy everyone. It's a very good effort only hampered by a few difficult to swallow story devices.
The plot is very hard to believe--not so much as having Dietrich play a jewel thief, but that she would steal and destroy Gary Cooper's car and he wouldn't be a lot more angry about it! In fact, soon they are both head-over-heels in love!! I remember the last time some lady hit my car (she didn't even steal it)--I was much more likely to punch the lady in the nose than fall her her! Oh well, that's Hollywood of the 1930s. If you suspend disbelief about this, the rest of the film is a very entertaining romance. Plus, the end of the film will surely satisfy everyone. It's a very good effort only hampered by a few difficult to swallow story devices.
Good fun
Caz196422 January 2006
I bought this film from the Netherlands as unfortunately it isn't on sale in the UK,i don't know why,sadly its been forgotten like so many others of this era.I thought the film was very ahead of its time,the characters are very interesting,you have the likable but scheming lady jewell thief,who is so classy,and then you have the handsome but not to clever American tourist,together they make great comedy,this is both stars at their best,you can tell they are enjoying the parts their playing in this film.Also strangely enough the costumes and vintage cars don't date the film at all,it only adds to the appeal,this is a great film to watch if you love old cars,because there is some beautiful models shown in this film.And the costumes are very classy,and interesting.Its an old film,that hasn't dated,it just gets more interesting with age,as I've said its a shame its not on sale in the UK,as we do have a lot of old car enthusiasts.
Hooked In Through Fate
bkoganbing20 September 2006
No doubt of it, in Desire Gary Cooper and Marlene Dietrich were definitely fated to be together from the first time they had that fender bender in Paris before Coop got a good look at Dietrich and those celebrated gams.
Marlene Dietrich is a countess, but one of those members of the nobility upon whom hard times have fallen. She and a partner John Halliday support themselves through some clever jewel robbery. In fact she pulls one classic scam on jeweler Ernest Cossart and psychiatrist Alan Mowbray and winds up with a valuable pearl necklace.
The getaway proves to be a bit of a problem and she hooks poor innocent Gary Cooper at the customs inspection between France and Spain. She slips the swag into his pocket and at that point she's stuck with him. But it soon proves to be a very pleasant experience.
Desire was produced by Ernest Lubitsch and directed by Frank Borzage. There's definitely more Lubitsch than Borzage in this film. Borzage normally directed heavy duty romantic tragedies and his favorite leading lady was Margaret Sullavan in films like Three Comrades and The Mortal Storm. It's unusual for someone not die in one of his films. I'm not sure Lubitsch didn't direct a lot of this himself.
This was Dietrich and Cooper's second teaming, the first being the far more serious Morocco in which Dietrich made her American film debut. For some reason Desire was something the American movie public wasn't all that crazy about. I'm not sure why it's light and entertaining and should have done better.
Marlene Dietrich is a countess, but one of those members of the nobility upon whom hard times have fallen. She and a partner John Halliday support themselves through some clever jewel robbery. In fact she pulls one classic scam on jeweler Ernest Cossart and psychiatrist Alan Mowbray and winds up with a valuable pearl necklace.
The getaway proves to be a bit of a problem and she hooks poor innocent Gary Cooper at the customs inspection between France and Spain. She slips the swag into his pocket and at that point she's stuck with him. But it soon proves to be a very pleasant experience.
Desire was produced by Ernest Lubitsch and directed by Frank Borzage. There's definitely more Lubitsch than Borzage in this film. Borzage normally directed heavy duty romantic tragedies and his favorite leading lady was Margaret Sullavan in films like Three Comrades and The Mortal Storm. It's unusual for someone not die in one of his films. I'm not sure Lubitsch didn't direct a lot of this himself.
This was Dietrich and Cooper's second teaming, the first being the far more serious Morocco in which Dietrich made her American film debut. For some reason Desire was something the American movie public wasn't all that crazy about. I'm not sure why it's light and entertaining and should have done better.
If It's Lubitsch, It Might Be Good?
cdlistguy2 August 2021
When reviewers see the (sometimes) great Ernst Lubitsch associated with a film, all subjectivity goes out the window. The unlikely pairing of Cooper and Dietrich (do they have chemistry in "Morocco," I wonder) is a case of wooden meets aloof. The script lacks spark, the jokes fall flat, and the very idea of Marlene living happily in Detroit (even then) seems ludicrous. I can't seem to figure out what these two have to offer each other except for the manufactured "love" that movie romances provide. She ain't down home, that's for sure, and he shows no signs of true sophistication. Had they made a sequel, it would have most likely been "Divorce in Detroit." Thing do pick up towards the end, and there's a fine dinner scene with all the major players, but it's not enough to brighten up the proceedings. I know my opinion is not shared by many, but I can only call it as I see it. NOTE: I have nothing against Detroit; I consider it an important city in America's history. It just doesn't seem to suit the Dietrich persona that was carefully sculpted by Hollywood.
Lighthearted comedy
SenjoorMutt14 December 2015
Unfortunately now forgotten easy-going crime comedy starring magnificent Marlene Dietrich and Gary Cooper. Two stars share electrifying chemistry on the screen (although Dietrich herself first mentioned that Cooper was too one dimensional). It's a lighthearted comedy with simple plot about jewel heist, where Dietrich is seductive and thief and Cooper is non suspecting Don Juan who is getting too mixed up. 'Desire' has it's own charm thanks to the witty dialogue and with some laugh out loud moments. It was produced (some scenes were also directed by) great Ernst Lubitsch, and his touch can be felt throughout the film. Probably not the greatest production by Frank Borzage and Ernst Lubitsch, but it's definitely amusing film and all those who love the 1930's type romantic comedies will find it entertaining.
Luminous - Bravo Borzage
felixoscar12 December 2003
Maybe some of the others have viewed a different film, or neglect the fact that this was filmed over 60 years ago. To me this is a brilliant movie --- at times witty, exciting, sensual and altogether satisfying. Dietrich and Cooper, how promising (again) and Borzage, sophisticated and classy, who could ask for more?
Dietrich saves this from disaster, but can't quite make it compelling
OldAle119 November 2007
Warning: Spoilers
VHS rental. The second of a Borzage double bill (after A Farewell to Arms), this was something of a disappointment. Gary Cooper again, a charming somewhat countrified American engineer who gets mixed up with pearl thief disguised as petty noblewoman Marlene Dietrich in Paris and then in flight to Spain. The early scenes of Dietrich scamming both pearl merchant and psychologist into believing that the other is her husband are well-played, and the meet-cute moments on the road though a little labored are still -- cute. But around the time Dietrich's partner in crime Margoli (John Halliday) enters the scene the film slows to a deadly crawl, and knowing how it's going to finish I can't wait for it to do so. This seemed much lighter and less intense than the other Borzage films I'd seen, so I wasn't surprised to learn that Ernst Lubitsch was the producer (and rumored director of some scenes); the Lubitsch touch mixed with the Borzage romanticism doesn't really come off. Worth seeing for the two stars though, by all means, especially Dietrich who is as magnetic as ever.
great for a seventy year old film
VicTheDaddy29 March 2006
My wife got me to watch this film the other day and i was expecting a really corny old film,but instead i found it really entertaining and i would have watched it just for the lovely vintage cars that you see so much of in this film.They don't make cars like that anymore.The plot of the film was very simple,although the robbery was very clever,in other words the film never becomes complicated,you never get lost,which is just right for a light comedy.Marlene is very seductive and very convincing as the shady lady who fools Gary Cooper,the pair are excellent together,the chemistry between them is electric.I don't know why this isn't a classic as it hasn't really dated,I think a modern audience would still enjoy this film, as i did.I think in future ill always give these 1930s romances the benefit of the doubt,as there may be others like this one that are total gems.
Pearl Jam!
bsmith55528 November 2018
Warning: Spoilers
"Desire" is about a sexy jewel thief and an unassuming American tourist.
Madeleine de Beaupre (Marlene Dietrich) steals a valuable string of pearls through devious means involving a jeweler, Aristide Duvalle (Ernest Cossart) and a famous doctor, Maurice Pauquet (Alan Mowbray). The way in which she accomplishes this is the highlight of the movie. Meanwhile an American automotive engineer Tom Bradley (Gary Cooper) with the blessing of his boss Mr. Gibson (William Frawley) is about to embark on a two week vacation in Spain before returning to his job in Detroit.
Madeleine heads for the Spanish border. Along the way she manages to splash Tom on the roadside while speeding by. Tom catches up with her at the border and fixes the loud honking horn on her car. A spark is ignited. Inside while going through Spanish customs, Madeleine drops the pearl necklace into Tom's suit jacket pocket unbeknownst to him. After crossing into Spain Madeleine plans to retrieve the pearls from Tom.
Madeleine steals Tom's car and flees. She winds up wrecking it but for some reason doesn't search Tom's baggage for the suit coat with the pearls. In San Sebastian (I think), we learn that Madeleine is a part of an international jewel ring which includes Carlos Margoli (John Halliday) and Aunt Olga (Zeffie Tilbury. in a delightful performance).
Tom arrives and demands payment for his wrecked car. Madeleine is posing as a countess complete with luxurious gowns and Carlos as a prince. The pair at first, plan to dupe Tom out of the jewels without arousing suspicion. Carlos accomplishes this task ingeniously. But the fly in the ointment is that Madeleine and Tom fall madly in love. A police officer (Akim Tamiroff) is on the trail of the thieves. The ending spoils what was a good film.
Marlene is gorgeous as usual getting to wear a number of designer gowns in her role as a countess. Cooper could do anything convincingly. The chemistry between the two is evident as both were engaged in an off screen affair at the time. But I preferred Marlene as the femme fatale vamp who is caught between two lovers. I liked Cooper better as an action hero but he did do some other notable light comedies such as "Mr. Deeds Goes to Town" (1936) and "Meet John Doe" (1941) both for Director Frank Capra.
Madeleine de Beaupre (Marlene Dietrich) steals a valuable string of pearls through devious means involving a jeweler, Aristide Duvalle (Ernest Cossart) and a famous doctor, Maurice Pauquet (Alan Mowbray). The way in which she accomplishes this is the highlight of the movie. Meanwhile an American automotive engineer Tom Bradley (Gary Cooper) with the blessing of his boss Mr. Gibson (William Frawley) is about to embark on a two week vacation in Spain before returning to his job in Detroit.
Madeleine heads for the Spanish border. Along the way she manages to splash Tom on the roadside while speeding by. Tom catches up with her at the border and fixes the loud honking horn on her car. A spark is ignited. Inside while going through Spanish customs, Madeleine drops the pearl necklace into Tom's suit jacket pocket unbeknownst to him. After crossing into Spain Madeleine plans to retrieve the pearls from Tom.
Madeleine steals Tom's car and flees. She winds up wrecking it but for some reason doesn't search Tom's baggage for the suit coat with the pearls. In San Sebastian (I think), we learn that Madeleine is a part of an international jewel ring which includes Carlos Margoli (John Halliday) and Aunt Olga (Zeffie Tilbury. in a delightful performance).
Tom arrives and demands payment for his wrecked car. Madeleine is posing as a countess complete with luxurious gowns and Carlos as a prince. The pair at first, plan to dupe Tom out of the jewels without arousing suspicion. Carlos accomplishes this task ingeniously. But the fly in the ointment is that Madeleine and Tom fall madly in love. A police officer (Akim Tamiroff) is on the trail of the thieves. The ending spoils what was a good film.
Marlene is gorgeous as usual getting to wear a number of designer gowns in her role as a countess. Cooper could do anything convincingly. The chemistry between the two is evident as both were engaged in an off screen affair at the time. But I preferred Marlene as the femme fatale vamp who is caught between two lovers. I liked Cooper better as an action hero but he did do some other notable light comedies such as "Mr. Deeds Goes to Town" (1936) and "Meet John Doe" (1941) both for Director Frank Capra.
A Vacation Business Trip Turned Jewelry Heist - While Driving a Bronson 8
theowinthrop11 May 2007
Warning: Spoilers
Ernst Lubitsch was one of the co-producers of DESIRE with it's director Frank Borzage. Borzage was a good enough director to have handled the material of this delightful romantic comedy, but Lubitsch fans feel that he frequently discussed the film with Ernst, and the famous "touch" has been noted throughout it.
Gary Cooper is an ace salesman for the Bronson automobile company in Paris, working under William Frawley. He is about to go on his well earned vacation, but Frawley has a slight plan of his own. He is giving Cooper a new Bronson 8 automobile to use on the trip, which will carry a large sign on it advertising the car.
In the meantime, unconnected to this, Marlene Dietrich has been involved in a neat piece of jewelry theft. She goes to the jewelry firm of M. Duval (Ernst Cossart) and arranges for him to deliver his finest necklace to "her home", the address of which is the home of Dr. Pacquet (Alan Mowbray). Later she goes to Dr. Pacquet's office (he is a psychiatrist), and explains she is Madame Duval, wife of the jeweler, and that he is suffering a strange dementia. She says that he insists that purchases are being made by all sorts of people, including the good psychiatrist. She begs Pacquet to let her bring her husband that night to see him, warning him that he will claim that the psychiatrist owes him a huge sum of money for a necklace. Pacquet agrees. So Dietrich sets up a neat confrontation between the two men, leaving with the necklace while they are arguing about who owes money v. who is crazy.
Dietrich and Cooper get involved when she hides her stolen jewels in a bag of his at the border, and subsequently steals and wrecks his car. He still has the jewels though, and follows her. She and her suave, if sinister cohort (the wonderful John Haliday) decide to invite him to their home in the mountains, where they plan to retrieve the jewels before Cooper leaves. And that is all of the plot I will discuss.
As I once mentioned regarding a later Cooper film (LOVE IN THE AFTERNOON), while Cooper was seen as the great American hero in westerns and adventure films, he was leading an active social life in high society circles. His direct American character, so fitting in THE PLAINSMAN or in HIGH NOON also could shoot off a gentle charm at times, and it works well in DESIRE. He and Dietrich had made MOROCCO six years earlier, but that was set in the deserts of North Africa and was a straight drama. Here they both mingle his American ruggedness and charm against her European sophistication and charm, and it works nicely. They are ably abetted by Haliday, pretending to be Dietrich's uncle but jealously watching Cooper's moves. The results is a well made romantic comedy that never fails to please the audience.
Gary Cooper is an ace salesman for the Bronson automobile company in Paris, working under William Frawley. He is about to go on his well earned vacation, but Frawley has a slight plan of his own. He is giving Cooper a new Bronson 8 automobile to use on the trip, which will carry a large sign on it advertising the car.
In the meantime, unconnected to this, Marlene Dietrich has been involved in a neat piece of jewelry theft. She goes to the jewelry firm of M. Duval (Ernst Cossart) and arranges for him to deliver his finest necklace to "her home", the address of which is the home of Dr. Pacquet (Alan Mowbray). Later she goes to Dr. Pacquet's office (he is a psychiatrist), and explains she is Madame Duval, wife of the jeweler, and that he is suffering a strange dementia. She says that he insists that purchases are being made by all sorts of people, including the good psychiatrist. She begs Pacquet to let her bring her husband that night to see him, warning him that he will claim that the psychiatrist owes him a huge sum of money for a necklace. Pacquet agrees. So Dietrich sets up a neat confrontation between the two men, leaving with the necklace while they are arguing about who owes money v. who is crazy.
Dietrich and Cooper get involved when she hides her stolen jewels in a bag of his at the border, and subsequently steals and wrecks his car. He still has the jewels though, and follows her. She and her suave, if sinister cohort (the wonderful John Haliday) decide to invite him to their home in the mountains, where they plan to retrieve the jewels before Cooper leaves. And that is all of the plot I will discuss.
As I once mentioned regarding a later Cooper film (LOVE IN THE AFTERNOON), while Cooper was seen as the great American hero in westerns and adventure films, he was leading an active social life in high society circles. His direct American character, so fitting in THE PLAINSMAN or in HIGH NOON also could shoot off a gentle charm at times, and it works well in DESIRE. He and Dietrich had made MOROCCO six years earlier, but that was set in the deserts of North Africa and was a straight drama. Here they both mingle his American ruggedness and charm against her European sophistication and charm, and it works nicely. They are ably abetted by Haliday, pretending to be Dietrich's uncle but jealously watching Cooper's moves. The results is a well made romantic comedy that never fails to please the audience.
charming
Kirpianuscus31 August 2016
it is one of films who reminds old flavors. in the most inspired manner. and this does it a time trip. for the cultural references. for the meet between Dietrich and Cooper and the seductive chemistry between them. for cultural references. and for mixture of romance and thriller who represents a real delight. a film with references to the war and a fascinating Paris. about Spain and about the choices who are always bizarre. about passion, innocence and the secrets who defines reality. with interesting characters. and an end who is perfect gift for romantics. its humor and elegance, its naivety are good points for discover a world who seems lost, not real or exotic. short, a seductive Lubitch work.
Desire review
JoeytheBrit21 April 2020
A car designer on holiday in Spain falls for a glamorous jewel thief. A smart and witty comedy that can't quite maintain the perfection of its opening act, but still manages to deliver something special. Cooper does his boyish naivety bit to perfection, while Dietrich looks good enough to eat - although her remarkable eyebrows are a constant distraction.
"....disarm the fricassee...."
AAdaSC6 October 2010
Gary Cooper (Tom) encounters Marlene Dietrich (Madeleine) on his way to holiday in Spain. Unknown to him is the fact that she has just stolen over $2 worth of pearls and is trying to smuggle them into Spain. She slips the pearls into his jacket pocket without him noticing so she can avoid the customs search. However, he takes off his jacket and packs it into his suitcase forcing her to stick with him until a moment arises where she can get the pearls back. Things don't work out as planned for her as when they part company, Cooper still has possession of the pearls. Her partner in crime John Halliday (Carlos) is not happy with her. When Cooper suddenly shows up again, he is still unaware that he is carrying the valuable pearls. Dietrich is romantically won over by him and this changes her plans.....
The film has a good cast with a special mention for Zeffie Tilbury as "Aunt Olga" who turns up late in the film - an old, frail lady on the outside but a cold, emotionless criminal at heart. She advises Dietrich to forget about love - it is much better to have the memory. There are many good scenes, eg, the end scene at dinner when Cooper gradually reveals to Halliday what he knows about the theft, the beginning scene when Dietrich is carrying out her scam, the scene at customs on the border of Spain where we are unsure of who is going to get busted and how, etc. The story gets going from the outset and is played with humour. Cooper is funny as the salesman, eg, when he discusses which is the better word - "delighted" or "glad" - to his boss before he goes on holiday. The strong cast keep the story going and it's a funny film. Good entertainment.
The film has a good cast with a special mention for Zeffie Tilbury as "Aunt Olga" who turns up late in the film - an old, frail lady on the outside but a cold, emotionless criminal at heart. She advises Dietrich to forget about love - it is much better to have the memory. There are many good scenes, eg, the end scene at dinner when Cooper gradually reveals to Halliday what he knows about the theft, the beginning scene when Dietrich is carrying out her scam, the scene at customs on the border of Spain where we are unsure of who is going to get busted and how, etc. The story gets going from the outset and is played with humour. Cooper is funny as the salesman, eg, when he discusses which is the better word - "delighted" or "glad" - to his boss before he goes on holiday. The strong cast keep the story going and it's a funny film. Good entertainment.
Another Super-Hit Rom Com with that illustrious formula of Con Woman falling for a Gentleman. Highly Influential to Gary Cooper's Own Classic Rom Com 'Ball Of Fire'.
SAMTHEBESTEST24 October 2021
Desire (1936) :
Brief Review -
Another Super-Hit Rom Com with that illustrious formula of Con Woman falling for a Gentleman. Highly Influential to Gary Cooper's Own Classic Rom Com 'Ball Of Fire'. Having seen almost every known rom com from 30s-that's where it begin know, i often wondered how many unknown films are still there made with those same classic formulas. A con woman uses a gentleman to hide from cops and then she really falls in love with him. I remember watching Howard Hawks' "Ball Of Fire" (1941) starting Gary Cooper and Barbara Stanwyck which had the same formula and there was another one starring Stanwyck 'The Lady Eve' in the same year. I enjoyed Ball Of Fire immensely and i term it is as a Classic example of basic Rom-Com whereas 'The Lady Eve' had some issues unsolved. Well, now i learnt about Desire which came half-a-decade ago and i am surprised as well as delighted. Desire has the same formula, the same story with minor changes here and there with characters and situations and that's why it wins you over and it wins you completely. From the beginning till the end, there are no boring moments, no big loopes, no blunders as such can be countered. So yes, it's a Super-Hit Entertainment! Gary Cooper perfect fits the bill and i sometimes say it to myself that he was one of those charming young gentleman from 30s who always fit perfectly in every good Rom-Com. That scene when Dietrich just keeps staring at him in the sunlight on dinner table.. how handsome and cute he looks. Exactly the man every woman dreams of. Marlene is simply beautiful and clever in her role as a con woman/dame. Desire has some moments which really feels heartwarming and i am sure it is by far a great rom-com without a single illicit and vulgar scene. Overall, a proud triumph for Frank Borgaze but i wish it had little more kick in the climax.
RATING - 7.5/10*
By - #samthebestest.
Another Super-Hit Rom Com with that illustrious formula of Con Woman falling for a Gentleman. Highly Influential to Gary Cooper's Own Classic Rom Com 'Ball Of Fire'. Having seen almost every known rom com from 30s-that's where it begin know, i often wondered how many unknown films are still there made with those same classic formulas. A con woman uses a gentleman to hide from cops and then she really falls in love with him. I remember watching Howard Hawks' "Ball Of Fire" (1941) starting Gary Cooper and Barbara Stanwyck which had the same formula and there was another one starring Stanwyck 'The Lady Eve' in the same year. I enjoyed Ball Of Fire immensely and i term it is as a Classic example of basic Rom-Com whereas 'The Lady Eve' had some issues unsolved. Well, now i learnt about Desire which came half-a-decade ago and i am surprised as well as delighted. Desire has the same formula, the same story with minor changes here and there with characters and situations and that's why it wins you over and it wins you completely. From the beginning till the end, there are no boring moments, no big loopes, no blunders as such can be countered. So yes, it's a Super-Hit Entertainment! Gary Cooper perfect fits the bill and i sometimes say it to myself that he was one of those charming young gentleman from 30s who always fit perfectly in every good Rom-Com. That scene when Dietrich just keeps staring at him in the sunlight on dinner table.. how handsome and cute he looks. Exactly the man every woman dreams of. Marlene is simply beautiful and clever in her role as a con woman/dame. Desire has some moments which really feels heartwarming and i am sure it is by far a great rom-com without a single illicit and vulgar scene. Overall, a proud triumph for Frank Borgaze but i wish it had little more kick in the climax.
RATING - 7.5/10*
By - #samthebestest.
1930's Rom/Com
iquine29 June 2017
Warning: Spoilers
(Flash Review)
This is a comedic caper film. Elegantly dressed Dietrich, attempts to cleverly heist an expensive pearl neckless by tricking two men while in Paris. Only she clumsily gets in the way of a calm automobile engineer Cooper during her escape. Their paths cross multiple times and ultimately so do their hearts. Haha Of course Cooper ends up in the caper mix which leads to romance. The caper is rather clever and Dietrich's fashion stellar but overall the film is fine and light- hearted; never fully engaging or gripping. Fun little story from the 1930's.
This is a comedic caper film. Elegantly dressed Dietrich, attempts to cleverly heist an expensive pearl neckless by tricking two men while in Paris. Only she clumsily gets in the way of a calm automobile engineer Cooper during her escape. Their paths cross multiple times and ultimately so do their hearts. Haha Of course Cooper ends up in the caper mix which leads to romance. The caper is rather clever and Dietrich's fashion stellar but overall the film is fine and light- hearted; never fully engaging or gripping. Fun little story from the 1930's.
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