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The Lawyer's Secret

The Lawyer's Secret (1931)

Jun 06, 1931 1h 10m Crime Drama

Sailor Joe Hart, who is spending his shore leave at a gambling joint, sells his gun to young Laurie Roberts after losing terribly. After Hart again loses his last dime, he leaves the joint and steals a car in order to return to his ship. Later that night, a tough gambler named "The Weasel" convinces Laurie, who also lost badly, that Baldy, the joint's owner, is crooked, and they both return to the joint to break open the safe. During the holdup, The Weasel kills Baldy with Joe's gun and, after being picked up for speeding, Joe is arrested for murder.

Directed by Louis J. Gasnier

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Louis J. Gasnier
  • Max Marcin
Writer
  • Lloyd Corrigan
  • Max Marcin

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, The Lawyer's Secret examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Louis J. Gasnier brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1931, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of The Lawyer's Secret took approximately 9 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 70 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 113 minutes long.
  • The costume department created over 206 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The film contains approximately 1003 individual shots.
  • The screenplay went through 5 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 1931, when this film was released:
  • The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
  • Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

While The Lawyer's Secret shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Bir Yaz Yağmuru, which focuses more on action than character development, The Lawyer's Secret offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like The Bounty and About Mermaids And Sailors explore similar territory, The Lawyer's Secret stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: June 6, 1931
  • Runtime: 1h 10m