MARIA OUSPENSKAYA: The "Romani" Mother of Bela Lugosi's Werewolf

MARIA ALEKSEYEVNA OUSPENSKAYA  was born in Tula, Russia, on July 29, 1876. The Russian actress is best remembered for an American Horror motion picture she made 65-years-later. THIS IS HER STORY!

There appears to be no record of the name's of Maria Ouspenskaya's parents, but biographical sketches list her father as a "Lawyer", and her mother as a "Homemaker". Just as vague, I could not locate anything about her childhood, other than she wanted to be a singer. She apparently had, what was described as, "a strong soprano voice", and several sources refer to Maria as being enrolled in Poland's, prestigious, "Warsaw Conservatory", to study music for a career in opera. 

Which may not be completely truthful, as far as educational institution's name's go. The following can be found on the website for the "Chopin University of Music" at:

 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chopin_University_of_Music 

After Poland regained independence in 1918, the Institute was taken over by the Polish state and became known as the Warsaw Conservatory.

The problem is, that, IF the "Fryderyk Chopin University", original name, did not become the "Warsaw Conservatory" until 1918. Maria Ouspenskaya would have been 42-years of age, when the name change took place. It is more than likely, whenever she enrolled, the school was still under the "Chopin"name, and over the years someone had picked up the newer name, and biographers just kept using it without any research. Additionally, I could not locate the year she actually started at "Chopin".

The website, "Movies Unlimited", has this entry:

Her soprano voice was strong enough to allow her to study at Poland’s Warsaw Conservatory, but by the time she turned 30 Maria shifted her focus from music to theater and enrolled at Adasheff’s School of Drama in Moscow for three years.

From the above quote, her switch in schooling should have taken place around 1906, or 12-years before the "Fryderyk Chopin University", became the "Warsaw Conservatory".

I base this on the fact that the "Adasheff's School of Drama", was founded, in 1906, by Russian actor, Alexander Ivanovich Platonov. Whose stage name was "Adashev", seen below in "The Blue Bird", circa 1908.

  

It was in 1906, that Platonov became the head of the "Adashev Drama Courses". Which, with the teachers he hired, became the preliminary school for actors wishing to join "MAT (The Moscow Art Theatre)", founded in 1898, and seen below.

  

Maria Ouspenskaya was a founding member of the "First Studio", of the "Moscow Art Theatre", that was founded in 1912, by Konstantin Sergeyevich Stanislavski, below. In 1909, he created what is known as "The Stanislavski System", and in 1912, it became the offical teaching system at "MAT".

Besides Konstantin Stanislavski as her teacher, Maria's co-teacher was Leopold Antonovich Sulerzhitsky.

On May 20, 1915, Maria Ouspenskaya, billed as Mariya Uspenskaya, appeared for the first time on-screen. This was in the Russian short subject version of British author, Charles Dickens's, 1845 novel, "A Cricket on the Stove". Mariya Uspenskaya would appear in three more Russian short films in 1916, 1917, and 1920. 

However, the "First Studio's, Maria Ouspenskaya" became a member of the touring company for the "Moscow Art Theatre". On September 18, 1922, the company left for Prague, Czech Republic, followed by Zagreb, Groatia, as the tour continued throughout Europe. 

The productions that Maria appeared in, were "Tsar Fyodor Ionnovich", by Aleksey Konstaninovich Tolstoy, "The Cherry Orchard", by Anton Chekhov, "The Lower Depths", by Maxim Gorky, and, a play version of Fyodor Dostoevsky's novel,"The Brothers Karamazov".

On January 4, 1923, the Russian Company arrived in the harbor of New York City, and they started performing in the United States. Their performances completed, a small number of the actors decided to remain in the United States. While the other members of the "Moscow Art Theatre" returned to Russia.

Two of those remaining in the United States were Maria Ouspenskaya, and Richard Boleslawski (Boleslaw Ryszard Srzednicki).

The two would form the "American Laboratory Theatre (The Theatre Arts Institute)", in New York City, around November 1923. Their school was the first to teach what became called "Method Acting", based upon Konstantin Sergeyevich Stanislavski's teachings. Among those who were taught by Ouspenskaya and Boleslawski during the schools ten-year run, included Lee Strasberg, in 1925. Later, Strasberg, in 1951, began teaching "method acting", at the prestigious, New York City, "Actor's Studio". While, future Broadway Producer, Robert Stoddard Aldrich, was the school's "General Manager".

Above teachers  Boleslawski and Ouspenskaya

From Lee Strasberg are these remembrances of his teacher, Maria Ounspenkaya, found on the website "American Theatre", at: 

https://www.americantheatre.org/2022/02/03/the-lab-where-the-method-was-born/ 

When she entered the class, she would say to her students, “Make for me friendly atmosphere!” and only once this had been done would she begin. Little documentation of these classes survives. Some of the most detailed notes are those taken by Lee Strasberg during his first few days of studying with her. “The first thing Mme Ouspensk[aya] asked us was to get up and walk,” he wrote. A student simply walking around the room with no other guidance would become self-conscious, and as they realized they were being observed, this simple act of moving naturally would become impossible. Next, she asked them to walk while thinking about something. Immediately, the class saw the improvement: Having a purpose made natural behavior easier to create, even while you were being watched. “Always have a reason/problem,” Strasberg noted her saying. An actor needed “a cause for appearing on the stage.”

Also, in 1925, one of the other students, was Stella Adler. Who in 1949, establish her own "method acting" school, "The Stella Adler Studio of Acting",  in New York City.

 It is probable that several websites, such as "IMDb", have gotten some wrong information about Maria Ounspenkaya having an "uncredited role", some say as a drunkard, in the 1929, Russian made feature film, "Tanka-traktirshchitsa", at:

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0258232/fullcredits/?ref_=tt_ov_sm_3#amzn1.imdb.concept.name_credit_group.7caf7d16-5db9-4f4f-8864-d4c6e711c686 

Because in 1929, it is well documented that she founded the "Maria Ouspenskaya School of Dramatic Arts" in New York City. Next, about 1936, she opened a second school in Hollywood, on Vine Street, where Ousenskaya also "Taught Dance". One of her dance school students was Marjorie Celeste Belcher,, the model for Walt Disney's "Snow White", and a major motion picture dancer and actress with future husband, Gower Champion.

It appears that the dance and acting instructor was facing financial problems and she looked to the American Motion Picture Industry as a means of raising money. Which brings me to my article "Walter Huston - Singer, Actor, Father of John" at:

https://www.bewaretheblog.com/2026/02/walter-huston-singer-actor-father-of.html 

Where my reader finds Russian actress, Maria Ouspenskaya's first English language motion picture.

DODSWORTH released on September 23, 1936

The 1929 satirical novel was written by Sinclair Lewis. In 1930, Lewis became the first American writer to receive the "Nobel Prize in Literature". In 1934, the "Nobel Prize in Drama" winning playwright, Sidney Howard, turned Sinclair Lewis's novel into a very successful play. In 1936, he turned his play into this screenplay and would be nominated by the "Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences", for the "Best Writing, Oscar".

The motion picture was directed by William Wyler, who would be nominated. by the "Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences" for "Best Director". He had just directed the very controversial 1936, "These Three", starring Merle Oberon, Joel McCrea, and Miriam Hopkins, that dealt with Lesbianism. My article is "Director WILLIAM WYLER--Director BILLY WILDER: Clearing Some of the Confusion Among Classic Movie Lovers" at:

https://www.bewaretheblog.com/2021/09/director-william-wyler-director-billy.html

Nine Actors - Nine Roles:

Walter Huston portrayed "Samuel 'Sam' Dodsworth". Huston would be nominated by the "Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences" for "Best Actor".

Ruth Chatterton portrayed "Fran Dodsworth". Chatterton had just co-starred with Herbert Marshall and Simone Simon, in 1936's, "Girl's Dormitory". She followed this feature film with the 1937 crime drama, "The Rat", with co-star Anton Walbrook.

Paul Lukas portrayed "Arnold Iselin". His film's include Katherine Hepburn's, 1933, "Little Women", Alfred Hitchcock's, 1938, "The Lady Vanishes", and 1940's, "The Ghost Breakers", starring Bob Hope and Paulette Goddard. Lukas. also co-starred with Bette Davis, in 1943's, "The Watch on the Rhine", and co-starred in Walt Disney's, 1954, classic version of Jules Verne's, "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea".

Mary Astor portrayed "Edith Cortright". Astor had just been seen in the 1936 comedy, "Trapped by Television",  and followed this picture with the 1936, crime drama, "Lady from Nowhere".

David Niven portrayed "Captain Lockert". Niven was just seen in the 1936 comedy, "Palm Springs". He would follow this picture with the British comedy, 1936's, "Thank You, Jeeves!".

Gregory Gaye portrayed "Kurt Von Obersdorf". Gaye had just been seen in the 1936, romance, "Hollywood Boulevard". He would follow this movie with the musical comedy, 1936's, "Under Your Spell".

Maria Ouspenskaya portrayed the "Baroness Von Obersdorf". The "Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences" nominated her for "Best Supporting Actress". She became the first Russian actress to be nominated in an American motion picture. 

I have expanded the photos of her from my original posted article. Her on screen time is only one sequence of five-minutes-and-30-seconds.

Above left to right, Ruth Chatterton, Gregory Gaye, and Maria Ouspenskaya. 

The Basic Screenplay:

The story opens in a small midwestern town, with "Samuel 'Sam' Dodsworth", finalizing the sale of the car dealership he founded 20-years earlier. He has other major assets, but now, "Sam" is talking to his close friend, banker, "Tubby Pearson", portrayed by Harlan Biggs, about the extended trip to Europe he and his wife will be taking. "Tubby"  warns "Sam", that men like him, are only happy when working. However, "Sam's" wife "Fran", feels trapped in the dull social life of the small town they live in, and is looking for escape.

The two are on-board the "RMS Queen Mary", and each meet congenial other companions. "Sam" meets American divorcee, "Edith Cortright", who lives in Italy, and is sympathetic to "Sam's" desire to expand his horizons. While, "Fran" meets a young Englishman, "Captain Lockert", whom she starts to flirt with and kisses. "Lockert" misreads "Fran", and attempts to become more intimate with her. This ends when he apologizes for offending her, but clearly tells "Fran Dodsworth" that she should stop pretending to be adventurous and sophisticated. "Fran", without telling him why, asks "Sam" to skip England, and go directly to Paris, France.

"Lockert" proves right about "Fran Dodsworth", as once in Paris, she is passing herself off as a much younger woman and a very sophisticated world traveler. While, "Sam" notes that those who would associate with "Hicks", like "Fran" and himself, are really not "High Class". As time passes, "Fran" sees her husband as boring and unimaginative, because all he wants to do is see the "Usual Tourist Attractions". "Fran" now meets cultured playboy "Arnold Iselin", and becomes infatuated with him. "Arnold" invites "Fran" to accompany him to Montreux and Biarritz. 

Meanwhile, "Sam" is ready to go home, but she convinces her husband to let her stay for a while longer in Europe, he agrees, and not knowing, "Fran" goes off with "Iselin".

Back at home, his friends greet "Sam" warmly, and he finds his daughter, "Emily", portrayed by Kathryn Marlowe, and his new son-in-law, "Harry", portrayed by John Payne, billed as John Howard Payne, having taken up residence in his mansion. "Sam" realizes he has changed, and wonders, if the same had occurred to "Fran"? When a "Dodsworth" manager in Europe confirms "Sam's" suspicions about his wife and "Iselin". 

"Sam" books passage on board the "RMS Aquitania", and when he finally confronts his wife. She denies his suggestion, but "Iselin" confirms everything. "Fran" breaks down and begs for forgiveness, a reconciliation with her husband does take place.

While "Sam" still loves "Fran", it is obvious that they are growing apart, and in Vienna, their relationship becomes more strained. The two receive news that their first grandchild has been born, but "Fran's" reaction to the good news is anything but normal. "Fran" realizes she has become a "Grandmother", and that plays upon her desire to still be young. In fact, "Fran" gets "Sam" to agree not to tell their European friends that they've become grandparents. 

That night. "Fran" goes dancing with the charming, young, "Baron Kurt Von Obersdorf". Who tells "Fran" he would marry her, if she were free. Later, "Fran" asks "Sam" for a divorce, and he reluctantly agrees.

While the divorce is being arranged, "Sam" wanders across Europe on different sightseeing tours. At an "American Express Office" in Italy, he again meets "Edith Cortright", and she invites him to her villa in Naples. There the two fall in love, and he asks her to marry him after the divorce becomes final. She accepts his proposal and the two continue their travels together.

Meanwhile, "Fran" is told that "Kurt's" mother, the "Baroness Von Obersdorf", has denied her son's request to marry her. "Kurt" will need children to carry on their line and "Fran" would be an:

OLD Wife, with a YOUNG Husband!

Additionally, DIVORCE is against their religion. "Kurt" tells "Fran" they'll just postpone their wedding until he can get his mother's approval, but she knows that is HOPELESS!

"Fran" calls "Sam" and wants him to sail back to the United States with her. "Edith" cautions "Sam" that "Fran" will never make him happy, but he leaves "Edith". While "Fran" and "Sam" are returning on the "SS Rex", as "Edith" predicted. In "Fran's" critical and demanding company, "Sam Dodsworth", reaches the realization of what "Edith" told him. He tells "Fran" that:

LOVE HAS TO STOP SOMEWHERE SHORT OF SUICIDE!

 He departs the ship at it the next port, and returns to "Edith" at her Naples Villa.

Also in 1936, at Maria Ouspenskaya Hollywood drama and dance studio, 13-years-old Anne Baxter, the future "Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Best Actress" winner for 1946's, "The Razor's Edge", opposite Tyrone Power, started her lessons.

Maria Ouspenskaya's motion picture career, including that questionable 1929 Russian feature, and "Dodsworth", only totaled 25-roles. I will be mentioning her remaining 21-motion pictures, but may not go into complete detail for every one. 

Maria Ouspenskaya's second motion picture was about an illicit love affair:

CONQUEST aka: MARIE WALEWSKA released October 22, 1937

The screenplay was based upon the 1904 historical novel, "Pani Walewska", by Waclaw Gasiorowski, and the 1933 play, by Helen Jerome. It apparently took 6-writers to create the screenplay based upon the two sources.

This historical drama was directed by Clarence Brown, who had just directed the historical drama, 1936's, "The Gorgeous Hussy", starring Joan Crawford, Robert Taylor, and Lionel Barrymore. He would follow this picture with the Walter Huston, and James Stewart, 1938, western, "Of Human Hearts".

Greta Garbo portrayed real life "Polish Countess Marie Walewska". Who became Napoleon Bonaparte's mistress. Garbo had just co-starred with Robert Taylor in 1936's, "Camille". She would follow this feature film in director Ernst Lubitsch's political screwball comedy classic, 1939's, "Ninotchka", co-starring Melvyn Douglas.

Charles Boyer portrayed "Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte". Boyer had just co-starred with Jean Arthur in the romantic comedy, 1937's, "History is Made at Night", and followed this feature film by co-starring with Claudette Colbert and Basil Rathbone, in the 1937 Anatole Litvak comedy, "Tovarich".

Henry Stephenson portrayed the husband, "Count Anastas Walewski". Stephenson had just been seen in 1937's, "The Emperor's Candlesticks", starring William Powell, Luise Rainer, and Robert Young. He would follow this feature film with the Miriam Hopkins and Ray Milland, 1937 screwball comedy, "Wise Girl".

The story is based upon real events, in which the husband of Marie Walewska came to the realization of his wife's becoming the mistress of Napoleon, might end with Poland still a free country. Unfortunately, this main storyline was boring to audiences and especially the critics.

A typical review of the motion picture, at the time of its release, came from film critic and novelist Graham Greene. Two of Greene's  novels that were turned into excellent motion pictures are 1955's "The Quiet American", and 1958's "Our Man in Havana". While Greene's most known, original screenplay, was 1949's, "The Third Man", that starred Orson Welles and Joseph Cotton. 

The review that Graham Greene wrote for "Conquest" was in the December 1937 issue of  "Night and Day", and in it, he called "Conquest":

One of the dullest films of the year.

Adding that the acting had:

Great fake emotions booming out - Love, Country, Ambition. 

While adding that the film had:

Unconscious comedy 

That last, partly, coming from the fine work of Maria Ouspenskaya, portraying the fictional "Countess Pelagia Walewska. The character is described as an eccentric "Aunt" by some, and a "Sister-in-law" by other reviewers of "Marie Walewska". However, her main scene with Charles Boyers's has become the most memorable in the entire feature film. In this one scene, as they play an innocent game of cards. The "Countess Pelagia" drills "Napoleon" over who he is, why he's in Poland, and where is he going? While stealing the scene from the picture's leading actor.

Right after filming ended for "Conquest", Maria Ouspenskaya, was trying to concentrate most of her spare time on her school. However, Ouspenskaya's next film role was shortly to begin filming. 

The Russian emigre was a strong believer in astrology, and now started having readings by Carrol Righter. He would shortly become the "Astrologer to the Hollywood Stars", in his own newspaper column.

LOVE AFFAIR premiered in New York City on March 16, 1939

The story was by two writers,  Leo McCarey, had just written 1938's, "The Cowboy and the Lady", starring Gary Cooper and Merle Oberon. He followed this feature with 1940's, "My Favorite Wife", starring Irene Dunne and Gary Cooper. The second writer was Mildred Cram, she had written the story for 1937's, "Wings Over Honolulu", starring Wendy Barrie, Ray Milland, and Kent Taylor. She followed this feature film with the 1940, fantasy, "Beyond Tomorrow", starring Jean Parker, and Richard Carlson.

The screenplay was also by two writers, Delmar Daves, had just written the screenplay for the Harold Lloyd comedy, 1938's, "Professor Beware". He followed this motion picture with the 1939 comedy, $1000 a Touchdown", co-starring Joe E. Brown and Martha Raye.

Leo McCarey directed and co-wrote "Love Affair", and in 1957, would remake this movie as "An Affair to Remember", starring Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr.

McCarey was also this film's producer, but was not for "An Affair to Remember".

Irene Dunne portrayed "Terry McKay". She would be nominated by the "Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences" for the "Best Actress, Oscar". Dunne had just done, 1938's, "Joy of Living", co-starring Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. She followed this feature film with 1939's, "Invitation to Happiness", co-starring Fred MacMurray and Charles Ruggles.

Charles Boyer portrayed "Michel Marnay". Boyer had just portrayed "Pepe le Moko" in 1938's, "Algiers", co-starring with Hedy Lamaar. He followed this motion picture with 1939's, "When Tomorrow Comes", co-starring Irene Dunne.

Maria Ouspenskaya portrayed "Grandmother Janou". Ouspenskaya was nominated by the "Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences" for the "Best Supporting Actress, Oscar".

Lee Bowman portrayed "Kenneth Bradley". Bowman had just been seen co-starring with Lucille Ball in the slapstick comedy, 1938's, "Next Time I Marry". He followed this feature film with the legal drama, 1939's, "Society Lawyer". From 1950 through 1955, Lee Bowman starred on television's "The Adventures of Ellery Queen".

Astrid Allwyn portrayed "Lois Clarke". Allwyn had just been seen in 1938's, "International Crime", and followed this feature with 1939's, "Miracles for Sale".

The Basic Plot:

One December, on-board an ocean liner crossing the Atlantic, French painter and known womanizer, 

"Michel Marnay", meets American singer, "Terry McKay". He is engaged to heiress "Lois Clarke", she is engaged to Kenneth Bradley". The two dine together, but his worldwide reputation makes the two aware that others may be watching them, so they start dinning separately. 

At a stop in Madeira, Portugal, the two go to meet "Michel's" grandmother, who bonds with "Terry". She will admit a secret wish that he settle down.

The ship leaves Portugal and arrives in New York City. "Terry" and "Michel" make an appointment for the two to meet six months later at the top of the Empire State Building. This is to give him time to sell his paintings, establish himself with an income to support both of them, and also to break off with "Lois". While, "Terry" breaks off her engagement to "Kenneth", and successfully negotiates a contract to sing with a Philadelphia nightclub.

Six months pass and on their rendezvous date, both "Terry" and "Michel" head for the Empire State Building, but she is hit by a car and the doctor's tell her she may be paralyzed for the rest of her life. "Terry" refuses to contact "Michel", preferring to let him believe the worst. He had waited on the top floor until he was told it was closing time, and decides to go back to Madeira and his grandmother. Only to discover that she had passed away.

Meanwhile, "Terry" is overheard singing in the garden of her physical therapy hospital by the owner of a children's orphanage and he hires her as a music teacher. 

The climax comes as "Michel" enters a theatre on Christmas Eve and sees "Terry". She is sitting in a theatre seat, and he has no idea that she is paralyzed. This is her way to conceals the truth about her disability to "Michel", whom she saw come into the theatre. The next morning, Christmas Day, "Terry" is in her apartment, and the children from the orphanage have just visited her and left. Next, "Michel" makes a surprise visit, and discovers her truth, as she learns "Michel's". He has changed his ways, and it is now her turn to change her's over her disability. Adding, that he plans for the two of them to be together for the rest of their lives.

Once again, 4th-billed, character actress Maria Ouspenskaya's on-screen presence dominates her scenes, and in some way, the following motion picture.

THE RAINS CAME premiered in New York City on September 7, 1939

The screenplay was based upon the June 1937 novel, "The Rains Came", by author and conservationist, Louis Bromfield. 

The screenplay was by Philip Dunne, he was one of the writers on 1939's, "Stanley and Livingston", just prior to this screenplay. The other writer was Julien Josephson, who was Dunne's co-writer on "Stanley and Livingston".

The motion picture was directed by Clarence Brown. Brown had just directed Norma Shearer and Clark Gable in 1939's, "Idiot's Delight". He would next direct Spencer Tracy in 1940's, "Edison the Man".

Myrna Loy portrayed "Lady Edwina Esketh". Loy had just been seen co-starring with Robert Taylor in 1939's, "Lucky Night". She followed this film with the third entry in the "Thin Man" series with co-star William Powell. In all, the two would make six, sophisticated, screwball comedy, crime mystery, movies. However, overlooked by many is that Myrna Loy portrayed Boris Karloff's, sadistic and over sexed daughter, "Fah Lo See", in 1932's, "The Mask of Fu Manchu". Many reviewers seemed surprised that Loy comes across as sexy and seductive in several of her scenes in this feature. Which is understandable, because of the roles she was now playing, such as in the "Thin Man" series. To them, I say, see her as "Fah Lo See".

Tyrone Power portrayed "Major Rama Safti". Power was just in the musical comedy, 1939's, "Second Fiddle", co-starring Sonja Henie, and Rudy Vallee. He followed this movie with the comedy, 1939's, "Day-Time Wife", co-starring Linda Darnell. 

George Brent portrayed "Tom Ransome". He just had been seen with 3rd-billing behind Bette Davis, and Miriam Hopkins, in 1939's, "Old Maid". and followed this film. By co-starring with James Cagney, and Pat O'Brien, in 1939's, First World War feature, the "Fighting 69th".

Brenda Joyce portrayed "Fern Simon". Joyce is known for taking over from actress Maureen O'Sullivan portraying "Jane" in the Johnny Weismueller, "Tarzan" movies and continuing to portray the role with Lex Barker portraying "Tarzan". This was her first on-screen role.

Above, Brenda Joyce with George Brent in a publicity photo

Nigel Bruce portrayed "Lord Albert Esketh". Bruce had just been seen in his second "Sherlock Holmes" feature as "Dr. John H. Watson, M.D.", opposite Basil Rathbone's "Holmes", 1939's, "The Adventure of Sherlock Holmes". For my fellow "Sherlockian's", I recommend the 1935 version of British author H. Ridder Haggard's, "SHE". In it, you will find Nigel Bruce portraying the prototype of his "Watson,", "Horace Holly".

Above left to right, George Brent, Myna Loy, and Nigel Bruce.

Maria Ouspenskaya portrayed "The Maharani". 

Let me say this about the film, although the acting is very good, the best part is the earthquake - flood sequence that won the very first "Academy of Motion Picture Art and Sciences, Oscar" for "Special Effects". The live action story is not that great and "20th Century Fox" wanted recognizable names in the leads and were able to borrow Myrna Loy from "Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer" in a trade for their use of Tyrone Power, after filming this picture. Without a trade, the studio was able to get popular George Brent from "Warner Brothers", and known comedy director, Clarence Brown, also was borrowed from "MGM".

The Very Basic Screenplay of a Disaster Movie:

The human story sounds very familiar, except the setting is in India, in the fictional Princely Hindu State of Ranchipur. Which is ruled over by the "Maharajah", portrayed by H. B. Warner, and his wife, the 

"Maharani".

To this area comes "Lord Albert Esketh", and his wife, "Lady Edwina Esketh" to purchase some horses. Living in Ranchipur is the dissolute painter "Tom Ransome". Who is still able to be active in the social society of the Hindu State, but is thrown off with the arrival of "Lady Esketh" and her elderly husband. "Tom Ransome" and "Edwina Esketh" were once lovers.

"Lord" and "Lady Esketh" meet "Major Rama Safti", and "Edwina" unsuccessfully attempts to seduce the handsome Hindu major. 

Compared to the "Maharajah", and those in the Indian and British society around him, "Major Safti" represents "The New India". To this area has come a missionary, the "Reverend Elmer Simon", portrayed by Harry Hayden, his wife, portrayed by Marjorie Rambeau, below, and their daughter, "Fern". "Fern" and "Major Safti" fall in love during the story. "Edwina Esketh" lives and seeks a life of pleasure, demanding instant gratification of what she desires. While "Fern" is the exact opposite, and slowly falls in love with the strong, forward looking Hindu army major.

To understand the above dialogue, "Fern's" father is very conventional, and sometimes very stern, a traditional clergyman. His wife, attempts to manage all their social functions to her liking/ She also attempts to control all of her daughter "Fern's" interactions with the "Hindu people", especially "Major Safti.

The other clergy man is the "Reverend Homer Smiley", portrayed by Henry Travers. He is "Reverend Simon's" opposite, being a kind, somewhat of a comic personality, and often bungles things. His wife is known as "Aunt Phoebe", portrayed by Jane Darwell, to the Hindu community, like her husband, she is a very kind, maternal figure, and tries always to understand them. 

Moving throughout the storyline is Maria Ouspenskaya's "Maharani", who is the wise bridge between the old and new India. The "Maharani" is described in the novel and screenplay having a:

Godlike understanding of the people 

All these stories come together when Ranchipur suffers a major earthquake, followed by the rains of the novel and films title.

After the rains ends, a cholera epidemic spreads throughout Ranchipur. As a result, "Lord Esketh" dies from the disease, "Lady Esketh" realizes her lifestyle and its effects, and turns to helping the sick at the side of "Major Safti". "Edwina" accidentally drinks from a glass a patient used, becomes infected with the disease, and dies from it.

The "Maharajah" died during the cholera epidemic, now the "Maharani" completes the training of her protege, "Major Rama Safti". As the film end, "Safti", is seen walking toward the camera as the new, progressive leader, of the Princely Hindu State of Ranchipur.

Maria Ouspenskaya had 8th-billing, in the 8th film of the very successful "Andy Hardy" series, starring Mickey Rooney and Lewis Stone.

JUDGE HARDY AND SON released on September 28, 1939.

Maria Ouspenskaya's "Mrs. Judith Volduzzi", is a client of Lewis Stone's, "Judge James K. Hardy". She is seeking legal advice to avoid her and her husband, "Anton Volduzzi", portrayed by Egon Brecher, being evicted from the home. "Judge Hardy" believes "Judith" has an estranged wealthy daughter, "Leonora Volduzzi Brock", portrayed by Martha O'Driscoll, who is ashamed of her immigrant parents and could help them. He sends his son "Andy Hardy", portrayed by Mickey Rooney, to locate and bring the daughter to him. This of course causes further troubles for "Andy" with his girlfriend, "Polly Benedict", portrayed in the series by Ann Rutherford.

Next, Maria Ouspenskaya appeared in the biographical motion picture:

DR. EHRLICH'S MAGIC BULLET premiered in Memphis, Tennessee on February 8, 1940

"Warner Brothers" had to place a note on the above poster for "Dr. Ehrlich's Magic Bullet". That even though the movie starred Edward G. Robinson, and mentions a "Bullet", it was not a gangster film, or a gun's bullet.

The story was by Norman Burnstine, his 4th of only 4. His 1st was 1928's, "The Sins of the Fathers", starring German actor, Emil Jannings and Ruth Chatterton.

The main screenplay writer was John Huston. He was still only a screenplay writer, it would be 17-months before his first motion picture as a director would start filming, "The Maltese Falcon", also written by Huston. 

The second writer was German born, Heinz Herald, one of three writers on 1937's, "The Life of Emile Zola".

The motion picture director was German born William Dieterle. His films prior to this motion picture included 1936's, "The Story of Louis Pasteur", 1937's, "The Life of Emile Zola", 1939's, Juarez", and just before this feature, the classic 1939 version of French author Victor Hugo's "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" starring Charles Laughton and Maureen O'Hara.

Edward G. Robnison portrayed "Dr. Paul Ehrlich". Robinson had just starred in the crime thriller, 1939's, "Blackmail" co-starring Ruth Hussey, and followed this picture with the comedy crime drama, 1940's, "Brother Orchid", co-starring Humphrey Bogart and Ann Sothern.

Ruth Gordon portrayed "Mrs. Hedwig Ehrlich". Gordon had just portrayed "Mary Todd Lincoln", in 1940's, "Abe Lincoln in Illinois". She would follow this feature film with 1941's, "Two-Faced Woman", starring Greta Garbor and Melvyn Douglas.

Otto Kruger portrayed "Dr. Emil Von Behring". Kruger had just been seen in the coming of age comedy, 1940's, "Seventeen", co-starring Jackie Cooper and Betty Field. He followed this feature film with the 1940 mystery, "The Man I Married", directed by Irving Pichel, and starring Joan Bennett, Francis Lederer, and Lloyd Nolan. Actor's, Irving Pichel and Otto Kruger, were in "Universal Picture's" sequel to 1931's, "Dracula", 1936's, "Dracula's Daughter", starring Gloria Holden as the lesbian vampire.

Donald Crisp portrayed "Minister Althoff". Crisp had just been seen in the Bette Davis and Errol Flynn historical drama, 1939's, "The Private Lives of Elizabeth and Essex". He would follow this feature film with 1940's, "Brother Orchid".

Maria Oupenskaya portrayed "Franziska Speyer". 

This is the surprisingly accurate story about "Dr. Paul Ehrlich's" research and discovery, of what became known as antibiotic chemotherapy. Drugs introduced into a person's blood stream, by his "Magic Bullets", known as "Compound 606 (Arspenanmine)", the first cures for syphilis, relapsing fever, and African trypanosomiasis. 

Maria Ouspenskaya portrayed Franziska Speyer, the widow of a wealthy German Jewish banker. The real Franziska Speyer financed Dr. Paul Ehlich's research. Which also led to the establishment of what became a major, still in existence, medical research facility. The real Franziska Speyer died in 1909, the year "Compound 606" was finally discovered.

There is nothing like a "B" fantasy movie, filed with very recognizable character actors.

BEYOND TOMORROW aka: AND SO GOODBYE aka: BEYOND CHRISTMAS released on May 10, 1940

When you can't agree on the right film title, release it under all three in different parts of the United States 

The original story was by Mildred Cram, who I have already mentioned in connection with her previous screenplay, 1939's, "Love Story", Cram would follow this feature by switching to television writing and her first script for "The Philco Television Playhouse", "The Promise", was first televised on November 13, 1949.

Adele Comandini wrote the actual screenplay. Comandini had co-written the musical comedy, 1938's, "The Road to Reno". She followed this film with the musical drama, 1940's, "Her First Romance".

The motion picture was directed by A. Edward Sutherland, who had just directed the 1939, Laurel and Hardy comedy, "The Flying Deuces", and followed this fantasy with the comedy musical, 1940's, "The Boys from Syracuse".

The following is in poster order, not official cast listing:

Jean Parker portrayed "Jean Lawrence". Parker had just been seen in 1940's, "Son of the Navy", and followed this feature film with 1941's, "Roar of the Press".

C. Aubrey Smith portrayed "Allan Chadwick". Smith had just appeared in director Alfred Hitchcock's, 1940, "Rebecca", and followed this feature film with director Mervyn LeRoy's, 1940', "Waterloo Bridge".

Harry Carey portrayed "George Melton". Carey was just seen in the crime drama, 1940's, "Outside the Three-Mile Limit", and followed this feature film with the Carole Lombard and Charles Laughton, 1940 drama, "They Knew What They Wanted". The silent and sound Cowboy actor was a drinking buddy of director John Ford, and the two mentored the newly created John Wayne.

Charles Winninger portrayed "Michael O'Brien". Winninger had just co-starred with Bing Crosby in the comedy musical, 1940's, "If I Had My Way", and followed this movie with the musical comedy, 1940's, "My Love Came Back", starring Olivia de Havilland.

Above left to right, C. Aubrey Smith, Harry Carey, and Charles Winninger

Richard Carlson portrayed "James Houston". Carlson was just in the adventure comedy, 1939's, "Little Accident", and followed this film with the Bob Hope and Paulette Goddard, 1940, "Ghost Breakers". My article is "Richard Carlson the Academic Turned Actor" found at:

https://www.bewaretheblog.com/2015/08/richard-carlson-academic-turned-actor.html 

Maria Ouspenskaya portrayed "Madame Tanya". 

Above, Maria Ouspenskaya, Harry Carey, and C. Aubrey Smith

Helen Vinson portrayed "Arlene Terry". Vinson had co-starred with "King Kong's" Robert Armstrong in 1940's, "Enemy Agent". She would follow this feature film with 1940's, "Torrid Zone", that starred James Cagney, Ann Sheridan, and Pat O'Brien.

The Set-Up:

Engineers "George Melton" and "Allan  Chadwick" are working at their plant to complete a design on Christmas Eve. Their third partner in their Manhattan firm, "Michael O'Brien" arrives with Christmas presents for all their employees and the three owners, let them all leave, to enjoy the time with their families. Next, the three old men go home to the mansion they share with "Madame Tanya", an elderly contessa deposed by the Russian Revolution, for an elegant dinner party the four planned, but strangely, all the invited guests cancel.

"George" has a dark past, and he believes it is because of it, that the guests cancelled at the last minute. "Michael" now comes up with an idea to cheer up "George" and obtain more guests for dinner. Each man will put a $10 dollar bill, equal as of this writing to $194.76, in their wallet with their business card and toss it in the street. The three people who return it, will become their new guest's for dinner.

The Main Story:

"George's" wallet is found by "Arlene Terry", who gives the money to her driver and discards the wallet. The other two wallets are found by "Texas Cowboy", "James Houston", and "Teacher", "Jean Lawrence", both are very considerate and become friends with "Madame Tanya", and the three business partner's.

The three engineers are happy to discover that over a short time, "James" and "Jean" fall in love.

When "George", "Michael", and "Allan" have to travel to Pittsburg on business, "Madame Tanya" senses something is wrong and asks them to take a train instead of a plane. However, the three are adamant about flying, telling her, that it is perfectly safe. 

However, the plane crashes and three men are killed. Enter the Fantasy:

That same night, "Jean" and "James" come to the mansion to tell the others that they're engaged to be married and are given the sad news by "Madame Tanya".

The ghost's of the three men return home, and are dimly perceived by "Madame Tanya".

It now turns out that "Michael" had given "Jean" and "James" some bonds, so they would be able to get married and start their life together. Word gets out about the gift and the press runs a story. This leads to "James" having the opportunity to appear on a radio program and showcase his wonderful singing voice. Yes, Richard Carlson sings.Singer and musical star, "Arlene Terry" has been wanting to get rid of her aging partner, and has her manager, "Phil Hubert", portrayed by Rod La Rocque, make "James" an offer. 

As "Arlene" and "James" rehearse, he is forgetting "Jean", and becoming infatuated with his new singing partner. The three ghosts are upset over this development and the seeming break-up between "James" and "Jean", but they're powerless. Meanwhile,"Arlene" and "James" are at her apartment, when "Arlene's" ex-husband, "Jace Taylor", portrayed by James Bush, starts pounding on the front door. The two go out the back door to escape from hm. This incident is just after "Arlene" has convinced "James" to take a three-day leave with her, which he does.

The Climax:

Now it is time for the three ghosts to go either up, or down. "George", because of his dark past is summoned to leave the world and go down.. "Michael" begs him to repent, before it's too late. However, "George" refuses to be a hypocrite and walks into the darkness among godly thunder and lightning. It is now "Allan's" turn, and his son "David", portrayed by William Bakewell, appears to take him to once again be with his wife.

Finally it is "Michael's" turn, but when a voice tells him it is time to go. He refuses, saying he will not leave without seeing to "James" and "Jean". The voice warns him that a person is summoned only once, and he could be doomed to walk the Earth forever, if he turns the summons down.

At the same time, "Arlene" leaves her apartment to meet "James", and finds "Jace" waiting for her. He needs her help to get himself back on track, but she refuses and very coldly brushes her ex-husband off. She leaves to pick up "James" and go to dinner, but "Arlene" doesn't notice she is being followed. At dinner, "Jace Terry" enters the restaurant and shoots both of them, "Arlene" dies there, but "James" is taken to the hospital for an operation. He dies on the operating table, but "Michael" intervenes with "The Voice from Above", pleading for a second change for his young friend, it is granted.

The movie ends with "Jack Taylor" being arrested for murder, the three business partners going together to heaven, "James" and "Jean" getting married, and "Madame Tanya" living in the mansion.

In 1930, American playwright, Robert E, Sherwood, wrote a highly successful play, set in England during the First World War, entitled "Waterloo Bridge". In 1931, "Universal Pictures" turned the play into an outstanding feature film directed. by James Whale. However, Whale would be best remembered for his next 1931 feature film, Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley's, "Frankenstein".

Now it was "Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer's" turn to film Sherwood's play as a feature film.

WATERLOO BRIDGE premiered in New York City on May 16, 1940

It took three writers to turn Robert E. Sherwood's play into a screenplay for the studio. They were       S. N. Behrman, who was an uncredited writer for 1939's, "Love Affair", right before this screenplay. Hans Rameau, who was one of the writers on the next feature film I will mention, and George Froeschel, who also co-wrote the next feature I will mention.

Mervyn LeRoy directed, he had just directed the Carole Lombard comedy farce, 1938's, "Fools for Scandal", and would follow this picture by co-directing with George Cukor, 1940's, "Escape", starring Norma Shearer, Robert Taylor, and Conrad Veidt.

Vivian Leigh portrayed "Myra Lester". Leigh had just co-starred with her husband, Lawrence Olivier, in the 1940 psychological drama, "21 Days Together".

Robert Taylor portrayed "Roy Cronin", Taylor had just co-starred with Greer Garson and Lew Ayers, in the 1939 comedy, "Remember?". He followed this movie with the above mentioned, 1940, "Escape".

Lucille Watson portrayed "Lady Margaret Cronin". Watson had appeared in the Norma Shearer, Joan Crawford, and Rosalind Russell, 1939, "The Women". She would follow this movie with 1940's, "Florian", starring Robert Young.

 

Above, Vivian Leigh and Lucille Watson

Virginia Field portrayed "Kitty Meredith". Field had just appeared in the Cesar Romero, 1939, "The Cisco Kid and the Lady". She would follow this production with the Maureen O'Hara, Louis Hayward, and Lucille Ball, 1940, "Dance, Girl, Dance", which I will mention later.

Above left to right, Virginia Field, Robert Taylor, and Vivian Leigh

Maria Ouspenskaya portrayed "Madame Olga Kirowa". 

Above left to right, Maria Ouspenskaya, Vivian Leigh, and Virginia Field

C. Aubry Smith portrayed "The Duke". Like Ouspenskaya, he had just been seen in 1940's, "Beyond Tomorrow", and would follow this feature film with 1940's, "A Bill of Divorcement", starring Maureen O'Hara and Adolphe Menjou.

Above, Vivian Leigh, Robert Taylor, and C. Aubry Smith

The First Half of the Screenplay:

"British Army Colonel Roy Cronin" is driven to London's, "Waterloo Station", on his way to France and the Second World War. He has the driver stop on "Waterloo Bridge", and his memories return to the previous World War. Where he met "Myra Lester", the woman he planned to marry. As "Roy" stares at the good luck charm she gave him, he turns back into "Rendleshire Fusillier's Captain Roy Cronin". Standing at the exact same spot on "Waterloo Bridge", when an air raid siren starts. At the exact moment, he sees a young woman coming toward him, and they meet seeking shelter. She is "Myra Lester", a ballerina, and there is an immediate rapport between the two, as they were meant to met.

After the air raid, "Myra" invites "Roy" to attend a ballet performance that evening, and he accepts. While ignoring the obligatory dinner with his colonel later that night. At the performance, "Roy" sends a note to "Myra", asking her to have dinner with him after the ballet. However, the note is intercepted by the mistress of the ballet troupe, the tyrannical, "Madame Olga".

"Madame Olga" demonstrating her power over the ballerina's of the troupe,  FORBIDS "Myra" from having any relationship with "Roy". "Myrna" disobeys the ballet mistress and meets with "Roy", who is about to leave for the front. The two go to a romantic night spot, and he proposes marriage, and assures "Myra" that his family will look after her.

Back at the ballet troupe, "Madame Olga" dismisses "Myra" for disobeying her. There is no room for love for a dedicated ballerina. "Kitty", is "Myra's" best friend in the troupe, and she stands up for her, but is dismissed from the troupe also. The two young women are now on their own in London.

Instead of seeking out "Roy's" family, "Myra" stays with "Kitty", and the two young women's situation becomes so dire, that "Kitty" takes to the streets as a prostitute. Forcing "Myra" to finally make arrangements to meet her future mother-in-law, but then the newspapers run an erroneous report that "Roy" was killed in action, "Myra" goes into depression and - - - -

On June 12, 1940, the Hollywood trade paper, "Variety", wrote of Maria Ouspenskaya's next motion picture:

It is not the first of the anti-Nazi pictures, but it is the most effective film exposé to date of the totalitarian idea, a slugging indictment of the political and social theories advanced by Hitler. ... Performances are excellent.

THE MORTAL STORM premiered in 3 cities, Boston, Massachusetts, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Kansas City, Missouri, on June 13, 1940

The following quote is from my February 27, 2020 article, "Nazi Germany As Seen In Theatrical Motion Pictures", that looks at American, British, and German feature films and will be found at:

https://www.bewaretheblog.com/2020/02/nazi-germany-as-seen-in-theatrical.html

Adolph Hitler came to power, because the 1929 "Great Depression" hit Germany proportionally as hard as the United States. The unemployment rate was near 30 % under a government of fiscal austerity. A large group of German's wanted a change in their political leadership. Hitler appealed to the unemployed and others promising to improve their condition and Make Germany Great once more.

The screenplay was based upon the 1937 novel "The Mortal Storm", by Phyllis Bottome Dennis. Who, with her husband, British MI-6 station head for Austria, Hungary, and Yugoslavia, witnessed the rise of Fascism and Nazism under Adolph Hitler.

The screenplay was written by three writers, Claudine West, she co-wrote 1939's, "On Borrowed Time", and the opertta, 1941's, "Chocolate Soldier". 

Berlin born, Hans Rameau, using the non-German sounding name of Andersen Ellis. As I had just mentioned, he had co-wrote, 1940, "Waterloo Bridge". Until the American made 1937, "Moonlight Serenade", Rameau had written screenplays in his native Germany from 1919, and he would return to writing German films in 1954.

George Froeschel, as I had also mentioned, had co-wrote 1940's, "Waterloo Bridge". He followed this feature with 1942's, "We Were Dancing".

The motion picture was directed by Frank Borzage. He had just directed Clark Gable and Joan Crawford's, 1940, "Strange Cargo", and followed this movie with Robert Taylor in 1940's, "Flight Command".

The screenplay revolves around the "Roth Family", and dramatized the persecution of "Jews" in Nazi Germany at the time. However, the words, "Jew", or "Jewish" is never mentioned. The novel and motion picture were both released during the height of isolationism in the United States. Both had to walk carefully during this period. As a result, changes were made to the original novel for the screenplay. The authoress is quoted on the website, "Tablet", July 31, 2007, by Andrea Crawford, at:

https://www.tabletmag.com/sections/arts-letters/articles/a-woman-out-of-time

What it is to be a Nazi has been shown with unequivocal sincerity and life-likeness, but in the scene between the Jewish professor and his son, Rudi, there was a watering down of courage. Those familiar with the father’s definition of a good Jew will miss its full significance in the film because the central idea has been overlaid by insignificant words.

The "Roth" Family:

Margaret Sullivan portrayed "Freya Roth". Sullivan had just co-starred with James Stewart in 1940's, "Shop Around the Corner". She followed this feature with 1941's, "So Ends the Night", co-starring with Fredric March

Frank Morgan portrayed "Professor Viktor Roth". Morgan had just been in the comedy drama, 1940's, "The Ghost Comes Home", with Billie Burke. He followed this film with 1940's, "Boom Town".

Irene Rich portrayed "Mrs. Emilia Roth". Rich had just starred in 1939's, "Everybody's Hobby", and followed this picture with 1940's, "Lady in Question".

Gene Reynolds portrayed "Rudi Roth". Reynolds had just appeared in 1940's, "Edison the Man", and followed this movie co-starring with Jackie Cooper, and Bonita Granville, in 1940's, "Gallant Sons".

Robert Stack portrayed "Step Son, Otto Von Rohn". Stack had just been seen in his first motion picture, 1939's, "First Love", co-starring Deanna Durbin. He followed this movie with the1940 musical, "A Little Bit of Heaven".

William T. Orr portrayed "Step Son, Erich Von Rohn". Orr had just seen in 1940's, "Those Were the Days", starring William Holden, and followed this movie with 1940's, "My Love Came Back", starring Olivia de Havilland.

Left to right, Gene Reynolds, Robert Stack, William T. Orr, and Frank Morgan

The "Breitner's":

James Stewart portrayed "Martin Breitner". Stewart had just been seen in 1940's, "The Shop Around the Corner". He followed this movie co-starring with Rosalind Russell, in the 1940 screwball comedy "No Time for Comedy".

Above, Margaret Sullivan and James Stewart

Maria Ouspenskaya portrayed "Martin's mother, Mrs. Hilda Breitner".

Above left to right, James Stewart, Margaret Sullivan, and Maria Ouspenskaya

Three Other Characters:

Robert Young portrayed the main character of "Fritz Marberg". The title character of 1950's television's, "Father's Knows Best"had an un-fatherly role in this motion picture. Robert Young had just been seen in the 1940 drama, "Florian", and followed this feature with 1940's, "Sporting Blood", co-starring Maureen O'Sullivan.

Dan Dailey billed as Dan Dailey, Jr. portrayed "Holl". Dailey had just been seen in his first motion picture in an uncredited role, in 1940's, "Susan and God", starring Joan Crawford and Fredric March. He followed this movie with the 1940 comedy, "The Captain Is a Lady".

Above left, Dan Dailey, being confronted by James Stewart.

Ward Bond portrayed "Franz". Bond had just been in a 1940 Jack Benny comedy, "Buck Benny Rides Again". He followed this production with another comedy, 1940's, "Sailor's Lady". My article is "Ward Bond of Director John Ford's Stock Company" found at:

https://www.bewaretheblog.com/2025/01/ward-bond-of-director-john-fords-stock.html 

The Basic Story:

The specific date is January 30, 1933, the location is the German mountains near the Austrian border. The most loved by his students,"Professor Viktor Roth", is celebrating his 60th Birthday at the University where the non-Aryan professor teaches. He is presented with an engraved trophy by "Martin Breitner", and "Fritz Marberg" to the applause of the gathered students.

That night, a birthday dinner takes place at the "Professor's" home, with his wife, daughter, young son, and his two step sons. Also present are "Fritz", the young man "Freya" is engaged too, and "Martin", who secretly is in love with her.

Everyone is happy, and then "Marta, the Roth's Maid", portrayed by Esther Dale, comes in to mention the news she just heard on the radio. Adolph Hitler has just become Chancellor of Germany, and life is about to change drastically for the "Roth" family and their friends.

"Freya", "Martin" and "Fritz" meet at an inn, and observe "Professor Werner", portrayed by Thomas W. Ross, being bullied by a gang of Nazi youth. "Martin" intervenes with the bullies and "Professor Werner" is permitted to leave the inn. Next, "Fritz" is upset with "Freya", for not joining the others in singing the "Horst-Wessel-Lied" song, which became the anthem of the Nazi Party. 

"Fritz" also warns "Martin" to join the party, or be wiped out with the other "Pacifist Vermin". Outside of the Inn, the Nazi bullies are beating "Professor Werner". "Freya's" happiness has always been with "Fritz". That is until now, when she realizes the true nature of his political views as a member of the "Nazi Party". "Freya" breaks off her engagement and turns to anti-Nazi "Martin Breitner". 

When "Martin" takes "Freya" back to her home, he is attacked outside of it by the same bullies from the inn. "Mrs. Roth" comes out and they stop the beating, but her step-sons are among the group. They are now ordered away from the house by their step-mother.

"Professor Roth" refuses to teach the doctrine of racial purity and his classes are now boycotted.

Next, "Freya" visits "Martin" and his mother, "Hilda's" farm in the low alps, and he reveals his feelings toward her. She wants him to meet their friends at the inn to discuss what is happening to their town.

At the inn, "Professor Werner" appears, begging for help, because he is soon to be arrested by the people who were once his friends, students, and neighbors. That night, "Martin" takes "Werner" to a secret pass in the alps that will lead him to freedom.  While, at her home, "Martin's" mother, and "Freya" are visited by Nazi's interested in the whereabouts of her son.

"Professor Roth's" views toward the Nazi party leads, eventually, to his arrest, followed by being sentenced to a forced labor camp. The "Professor's" wife is permitted just one five minute visit with him, and he tells her to take "Freya", her younger brother, and flee Germany. He dies shortly afterwards.

"Freya" is being blocked from leaving Germany by officials still suspect of her father's real work. She now reunites with "Martin", his mother has the authority to marry the two, performs the ceremony, and they drink from the "Bridal Cup". Next, the two attempt to escape Germany through the secret mountain pass. While, "Hilda", helps, "Elsa", portrayed by Bonita Granville, a young girl living on the "Breitner" farm to get away to her aunt's home, before a Nazi patrol arrives. What happens to "Hilda Breitner" is not shown in the film.

However, "Elsa" is captured, and beaten severely until she reveals the location of the secret pass. Now, "Freya" and "Martin" are being pursued by a Nazi squad led reluctantly by "Fritz". In the end. "Freya" is fatally shot, and dies in "Martin's" arms, after crossing the German border into safety.

Maria Ouspenskaya found herself in another anti-Nazi motion picture, in a smaller ,but important role to illustrate anti-Nazi sentiment in Germany. 

THE MAN I MARRIED aka: I MARRIED A NAZI premiered in New York City on August 2, 1940

The screenplay was based upon the second of three short stories by Russian immigrant, Oscar Schisgall, that were turned into screenplays. He was the writer of 4,000 short stories for "Reader's Digest".

Olivier H. P. Garrett wrote the screenplay, and had started writing for motion pictures in 1928.  His next screenplay was about two "SS" brothers, facing the reality of Hitler's Germany, 1941's, "Underground".

Irving Pichel directed, he had just directed the Warner Baxter fantasy, 1940's, "Earthbound", and would follow this feature film by directing Paul Muni, Gene Tierney, and Laird Gregar, in 1940's, "Hudson's Bay".

Joan Bennett portrayed "Carol Hoffman". Bennett had just co-starred with George Raft and Lloyd Nolan, in 1940's, "House Across the Bay", and followed this picture with 1940's, "Son of Monte Cristo", co-starring with Louis Hayward and George Sanders. My article is "Joan Bennett: 'Elisabeth Collins Stoddard' of 'Dark Shadows" at:

https://www.bewaretheblog.com/2023/03/joan-bennett-elizabeth-collins-stoddard.html 

Francis Lederer portrayed "Eric Hoffman". Lederer had just been seen in 1939's, "Confessions of a Nazi Spy", co-starring with Edgar G. Robinson and George Sanders. He had left Germany, being Jewish, with the rise of Hitler, but would play mostly Nazi's in motion pictures. At some point, he bought up a large amount of land in the San Fernando Valley for a ranch. The land would become the Los Angeles suburb of Canoga Park, and the actor its first mayor. My article is "FRANCIS LEDERER the Forgotten 'DRACULA': A Stage and Screen Actor's Life" dripping blood at:

https://www.bewaretheblog.com/2016/02/francis-lederer-forgotten-dracula-stage.html 

Lloyd Nolan portrayed "Kenneth Delane". Nolan had just starred in 1940's, "Gangs of Chicago", and followed this film by co-starring with actress Lynn Bari, in 1940's, "Pier 13".

Anna Sten portrayed "Frieda Heinkel". Sten was born in the Russian Empire, her father was Ukrainian, and her mother Swedish. She had just starred in 1939's, "Exile Express", and followed this feature film with the Fredric March and Margaret Sullivan, 1941, "So Ends Our Night".

Maria Ouspenskaya portrayed "Frau Gerhardt". 

The Basic "B" Propaganda Screenplay:

A married couple, "Carol" and "Eric Hoffman",  with their seven year old son, "Ricky", portrayed by Johnny Russell, take a trip to the husband's homeland of Germany, to visit his father that he hasn't seen in 10 years. 

"Eric" starts attending Nazi meetings after meeting a woman, "Freida Heinkel", he knew from school in Germany. "Carol" starts noticing that her husband's personality is changing. 

Enter foreign correspondent "Kenneth Delane", who is covering Germany and the Nazi's. He becomes a friendly, supportive voice for "Carol Hoffman".,

Additionally, there is a subplot about a famous German philosopher, "Ernst Gerhardt", never seen, having been placed in Dachau concentration camp. Which the Nazi's had opened on March 22, 1933. His brother, "Dr. Hugo Gerhardt", portrayed by Ludwig Stossel, happens to be a friend of "Eric's" family and asks for help. Along with his mother "Frau Gerhardt", the two represent the intellectual older German's and are horrified by Hitler and the Nazi Party. Maria Ouspenskaya's character is specifically used to portray the tragic, human side of the German people. Her role, as was Francis Lederer's, is the most effective. "Hugo's" plea falls upon uncaring ears, because his friend is now a Nazi.

The film comes to a climax, when "Eric" decides to remain in Germany, marry "Frieda", but keep his "German" son with him. "Carol" wants to take their "American" son back to the United States. Help comes from "Heinrich Hoffman", portrayed by Otto Kruger, "Eric's" father. "Heinrich" tells his son that he will reveal to the authorities that "Carol Hoffman" is Jewish. At this news, "Frieda" leaves "Eric", knowing that under Jewish law, that, if the mother is Jewish, so is the son. The films ends with "Eric' in Germany, and "Carol" and "Ricky" on their way to the United States.

Then there was:

DANCE, GIRL, DANCE released August 30, 1940

The  motion picture was a $400,000 financial loss for "RKO". 

The motion picture was directed by Dorothy Arzner, She had been directing since 1922, and this was her 20th, of only 21 films. At the time of this release, Arzner was one of only two ladies directing in the American film industry. Among her work was 1933's, "Christopher Strong", starring Katharine Hepburn and Colin Clive, and French author Emile Zola's, "Nana", in 1934, starring Anna Sten. Just before this picture, Arzner directed Joan Crawford, Franchot Tone, and Robert Young in the 1937 comedy,  "The Bride Wore Red".

The story was by Vicki Baum, who was a novelist and wrote the 1932 novel, "Grand Hotel". Which was turned into a classic, multiple-star, every contract player "MGM" had on call, movie the same year.

This film was edited by Robert Wise, who followed this with editing 1941's, "Citizen Kane" and taking over from Orson Welles, the directing responsibilities for 1942's, "The Magnificent Ambersons". While the other was in South America for FDR.

The Three Main Stars:

Maureen O'Hara portrayed "Judy O'Brien". O'Hara had just been seen in the remake of a 1932 movie based upon a 1922 movie, based upon a 1921 play, 1940's, "A Bill of Divorcement", co-starring Adolphe Menjou. She would follow this film with the musical comedy, 1941's, "They Met in Argentina", portraying "Lolita O'Shea".

This was a "B plus" motion picture, the 6th on-screen appearance of Maureen O'Hara, that was designed to push her into "A" list movies on a regular basis. Her first two films were under her birth name of Maureen FitzSimons. While her 3rd, now as Maureen O'Hara, was Alfred Hitchcock's, 1939 version of Daphne Du Murier's, "Jamaica Inn", followed by director William Dieterle's, 1939 version of Victor Hugo's, "The Hunchback of Notre Dame". 

O'Hara was given two solid co-stars:

Louis Hayward portrayed "Jimmy Harris". Hayward was the London stage protege of Noel Coward, billed as C. Louis Hayward (His name was Louis Charles Hayward). Do not ask why the "C" was put before Louis. In 1927, he originated the role of "Lord Gadalming", the name would be changed later to "Arthur Holmwood" in North America. This was in the original production of playwright, Hamilton Deane's "Dracula". On film, Louis Hayward had starred in the 1939 version of Alexander Dumas's, "Man in the Iron Mask", and a created sequel of his "Count of Monte Cristo", called the"Son of Monte Cristo" in 1940.

Lucille Ball portrayed "Bubbles/Tiger Lilly White". Ball had just been seen in 1940's, "You Can't Fool Your Wife", and followed this feature film with 1940's, "Too Many Girls", co-starring Richard Carlson and Ann Miller. Ball begin as a serious actress and not a comedian. My article is "Lucille Ball Dramatic Actress 1933 to 1949" to be read at:

https://www.bewaretheblog.com/2024/10/lucille-ball-dramatic-actress-1933-to.html 

Above left to right, Maureen O'Hara, Louis Hayward, and Lucille Ball

On the above poster, after the 3 star's name's, are the name's of 7 recognizable supporting actors/actresses for 1940. Together, these 10 names completed the credited roles for "Dance, Girl, Dance", or, so it would seemed. 

All 10-names are followed by a standard publicity department trick. Which makes the potential audience member believe that the 11th name on the poster, is as important as the first 3-name's on it. This is accomplished by using the word, "AND", on its own line, followed by the name of another actor/actress. Which raises that name's importance in the mind of the person reading it.

That name was:

Maria Ouspenskaya portraying "Madame Lydia Basilova", a Russian ballet instructor, teacher, and mentor for "Judy O'Brien". "Lydia" emphasizes the art of dance over the commercialism of the dancing and burlesque that "Judy" and "Bubbles" are performing. "Lydia" arranges an audition for "Judy" with prestigious dance producer, "Steve Adams", portrayed by Ralph Bellamy. On her way to see "Judy's" audition, "Madame Basilova" is hit by a car and dies. "Judy" without her mentor, feels lost, and doesn't go through with the audition and returns to dancing burlesque and competing with "Bubbles" for "Jimmy Harris". Who still is in love with his ex-wife, "Elinor Harris", portrayed by Virginia Field. 

Of course, in the end, "Judy" and "Steve" become a couple.

THE WOLF MAN premiered in Los Angeles on December 9, 1941

The motion picture was produced by George Waggner. He would follow this motion picture by producing, among other films, 1942's, "The Ghost of Frankenstein", 1942's, "The Invisible Agent", 1943's, "Phantom of the Opera", and its originally planned sequel, 1944's, "The Climax". 

George Waggner was also the feature's director. As a director, he had directed Lon Chaney, Jr. in 1941's, "Man Made Monster", Boris Karloff and Susanna Foster in 1944's, "The Climax", and later, would direct 10-episodes of television's, "Batman".

The original story and screenplay was by Curt Siodmak. Just prior to this feature film, was his last screenplay under his German spelling, Kurt Siodmak, 1941's, "Aloma of the South Seas", that starred Dorothy Lamour and John Hall. Kurt/Curt would follow this classic with the screenplay the 1941, "Pacific Blackout", starring Robert Preston. Among his horror screenplays is producer Val Lewton's, 1943, "I Walked with a Zombie", and with his brother, film-noir director, Robert Siodmak, going back to their German expressionism roots, 1943's, "Son of Dracula". My article is "CURT and ROBERT SIODMAK: Horror and Film Noir" at:

https://www.bewaretheblog.com/2017/11/curt-and-robert-siodmak-horror-and-film.html

This second werwolf make-up was by the creator of the first for 1935's "Werewolf of London". My article is "Jack P. Pierce the Man Who Created Monsters" at:

https://www.bewaretheblog.com/2015/06/jack-p-pierce-man-who-created-monsters.html 

The Actors:

Claude Rains portrayed "Sir John Talbot". Rains was just seen in "The Body Swap Comedy", 1941's, "Here Comes Mr. Jordan", co-starring Robert Montgomery and Evelyn Keyes. He followed this feature with 1942's, "Kings Row". My article is "- - - -CLAUDE RAINS WAS THE INVISIBLE MAN - - - -" at: 

https://www.bewaretheblog.com/2019/05/claude-rains-was-invisible-man.html

Warren William portrayed "Dr. Lloyd". William was starring in a series of mystery films as "Michael Lanyard aka: The Lone Wolf". He had just appeared as the Jewel Thief turned Detective in 1941's, "Secrets of the Lone Wolf". He would follow this horror entry with the first movie about the husband and wife radio program detectives, in 1942's, "Mr. and Mrs. North".

Ralph Bellamy portrayed "Captain Montford", but the opening credits show the character as "Colonel Montford". Bellamy was starring in a series of "Ellery Queen" mystery films. He had just been seen in 1941's, "Ellery Queen and the Murder Ring". He followed "The Wolf Man" with 1942's, "The Ghost of Frankenstein".

Above left, Warren William, above right, Ralph Bellamy

Patrick Knowles portrayed "Frank Andrews". Knowles had just been seen in director John Ford's, 1941, "How Green Was My Valley". He will follow this feature film with 1942's, "Strange Case of Dr. Rx", co-starring with Lionel Atwill and Anne Gwynne. In 1938, the actor had portrayed "Will Scarlett", in "The Adventures of Robin Hood", starring Errol Flynn, Olivia de Havilland, Basil Rathbone, and Claude Rains.

Above left to right together, Patrick Knowles, Warren William, and Ralph Bellamy. Lower right is Ernie Stanton portraying "Phillips".

Bela Lugosi portrayed "Bela". Lugosi had just co-starred with "The Eastside Kids', in the horror comedy, 1941's, "Spooks Run Wild". He followed this motion picture with the horror entry, 1942's, "Black Dragons". My article is "Bela Lugosi: Arisztid Olt and Other Children of the Night" will be found at:

https://www.bewaretheblog.com/2025/11/bela-lugosi-arisztid-olt-and-other.html 

Maria Ouspenskaya portrayed "Maleva, the Romani Elder". 

Evelyn Ankers portrayed "Gwen Conliffe". On September 6, 1942, she married actor Richard Denning, and only her death 43-years-later ended their marriage. Ankers had just been seen co-starring with Charles Bickford in 1941's, "Burma Convoy", and followed this feature film by co-starring with Broderick Crawford and Andy Devine in "North to the Klondike". Which she followed by portraying "Elsa Frankenstein", in 1942's, "The Ghost of Frankenstein". My article is "Evelyn Ankers and Her 1940's Horror Films From Universal Pictures" at:

https://www.bewaretheblog.com/2020/10/evelyn-ankers-and-her-1940s-horror.html 

Not on the above poster, is Fay Helm portraying "Jenny". Helm was a solid "B" supporting actress, and her small role is the trigger in this Curt Siodmak's screenplay. She had just been seen in the 1941, crime drama, "Two in a Taxi", and followed this feature with the Ann Sheridan, Dennis Morgan, 1942, "Wings for the Eagle", about aircraft workers.

Bringing me to the Last Actor's name on the above poster, 

LON CHANEY 

as "The Wolf Man"  

Although it is Lon Chaney, Jr., billed on the "Official Cast Listing", as:

 The Wolf Man (Lon Chaney)

Although his character in the picture is actually, "Lawrence 'Larry' Talbot". Lon had been appearing in a series of "Universal Pictures "B" Westerns" in different roles. He had just been seen, with 8th-billing,  in the role of "Jack McCall", in 1941's, "Badlands of Dakota", starring Robert Stack, Ann Rutherford, and Richard Dix. Chaney followed this feature film with the previously mentioned, 1942, "North to the Klondike". My article is "LON CHANEY, JR: OF MICE AND WEREWOLVES" at:

https://www.bewaretheblog.com/2016/05/lon-chaney-jr-of-mice-and-werewolves.html 

Curt Siodmak's Classic Tragedy:

In an unspecified year in the early 20th Century, "Lawrence Talbot", after hearing of his brother's death, returns to the ancestral home in Llanwelly, Wales, to reconcile with his estranged father ,"Sir John Talbot". 

One morning looking through a telescope, "Larry" sees a beautiful young woman working in an antique store in the small town. 

"Larry" decides to walk over and meets "Gwen Confliffe".

Asking, if she can help him. "Larry" starts looking at walking sticks, and fines a cane with the figurehead of a wolf all in silver. "Gwen" explains the "Romani Legend" attached to the image and the pentagram on the flat side of the wolf head.

For the first time in the story we hear the poem, created by Curt Siodmak. Although people still argue that his poem is an actual "Folk Poem" from the Carpathian Mountain people of the 16th Century.

EVEN A MAN WHO IS PURE IN HEART, AND SAYS HIS PRAYERS BY NIGHT. MAY BECOME A WOLF WHEN THE WOLFBANE BLOOMS AND THE AUTUMN MOON IS BRIGHT!

Earlier the same day, "Romani Gypsy's"  have arrived in town and set up an encampment outside of it. 

"Larry" asks "Gwen" to go with him to the encampment that night. She accepts, but on the condition that they meet and take her friend "Jenny" along. 

At the encampment,  "Jenny" has her fortune told by "Bela", the son of the "Romani Elder, Maleva". However, as "Bela" starts to tell "Jenny" her fortune, he sees the same pentagram that's on "Lawrence Talbot's Cane" appear in her palm. "Bela's" demeanor suddenly changes, he just stops the fortune telling, and orders "Jenny" to leave.

The howl of a wolf is heard by "Larry" and "Gwen", followed by a scream from "Jenny". "Larry" runs toward the scream and witnesses a wolf over "Jenny's" body.

"Larry" uses his cane to kill the animal that attacked "Jenny", but it bites him on the chest. The police investigate, they find "Jenny" with her throat torn out, and the body of "Bela" near her. To them, "Lawrence Talbot" went to save "Jenny", "Bela" had heard her screams, and also went to help her. However, in the dark, "Talbot", tragically mistook "Bela" for the attacker and killed him. 

Although not overly mentioned in the film, is that "Gwen" is engaged to "Frank Andrews". This brings up an explanation, dropped by Joeph Breen of the Hays Censorship Office, as to why "Larry" and "Gwen" did not see the initial attack on "Jenny". They were somewhere within the "Romani" encampment engaged in adultery. 

"Larry's" father, and family friends, "Dr. Lloyd", and police chief "Colonel Monford", all believe that in the confusion, "Larry Talbot" had accidentally killed "Bela". "Larry" insists that he did not kill "Bela" by mistake. He further insists, that he killed a wolf, the animal that tore out "Jenny's" throat.

Except, that when "Larry" attempts to show them the bite marks on his chest, they're gone, but he insists his story is true. "Dr. Lloyd", tells the other two men, that "Larry" is in shock, but as time passes he will remember the true facts of that night.

"Larry Talbot" goes to the Romani camp to speak to the "Romani Elder, Maleva". 

He learns that "Bela" was her son, and she thanks him for putting him out his torment, but now that "Larry Talbot" has lived. He will also become a werewolf at the next full moon. "Larry" is also told that the pentagram on his cane will appear on his victims hands and he will have no control of the urge to kill whomever it is upon. She gives him a charm to help prevent the transformation.

That night "Lawrence Talbot" changes under the full moon into "The Wolf Man", kills the night watchman at the grave yard, and his real torment begins.

Still, his father and "Dr. Lloyd" only believe this is a delusion that will go away, hopefully, over time. Knowing that only "Maleva" believes the truth, "Larry" goes to "Gwen", for comfort. Only to see the pentagram on her palm. "Larry" gives her "Maleva's" charm, telling "Gwen",  it is to protect her from himself, and leaves.

That night, "Larry Talbot" becomes the "Wolf Man", and is caught in one of the wolf traps set by "Captain-Colonel Montford". "Maleva" finds him in wolf form, recites a spell to give him peace for a short while, and the "The Wolf Man", becomes kind "Lawrence 'Larry' Talbot".

This will lead to the climax of the story, with his father leading a group of men hunting for the wolf. On the hunt, "Sir John Talbot" meets "Maleva" and the two speak. He still will not accept the superstitious talk of the "Romani Elder", but he is about to learn the truth of her words. As his tormented and cursed son, "Lawrence", stalks the woman he loves.

What follows is father meeting son, and "Sir John Talbot" using "Larry's" Wolf Headed SILVER Cane" to save "Gwen", by killing the  werewolf, his son.

"Maleva" arrives, uses the same spell from earlier, and as "Sir John Talbot" watches, "The Wolf Man" dies. As its horrific face, becomes the kind face of "Lawrence Talbot".

While the transformation takes place, and "Larry" is at peace. "Frank Andrews", a part of "Sir John's" haunt group is reunited with "Gwen Conliffe".

One can be an outstanding actress, but being given the wrong role has its limits. This happened to Maria Ouspenskaya in her next role of "The Amah", in 1941's, "The Shanghai Gesture", released on Christmas Day. Her role was that of the maid for the "Dragon Lady" of this feature, "Mother' Gin Sing", portrayed by Ona Munson. Sneak preview audiences started laughing as they heard Maria Ouspenskaya delivering her lines. It's hard for an audience to believe a Chinese servant with a thick Russian accent. All of her scenes were re-shot with the maid not able to speak and using sign language.

Above Ona Munson and Maria Ouspenskaya

Next, Maria Ouspenkaya was one of the "Supporting Actors", along with the likes of, Claude Rains, Charles Colburn, the future Dame Judith Anderson, and an ex-member of Hal Roach's "Our Gang" and co-star of televisions "Rocky Jones Space Ranger", Scotty Beckett, in the extremely controversial:

KINGS ROW premiered in New York on February 2, 1942

Maria Ouspenskaya's role was approximately five-minutes in total screen time, but it span two-decades.

Above, Maria Ouspenskaya portraying "Madame von Eln", the "Aunt" of "Parris Mitchell", portrayed Scott Beckett.

Below, Maria Ouspenskaya portraying "Madame von Eln", the "Aunt" of the older "Parris Mitchell", portrayed Robert "Bob" Cummings.

In the actual novel, the reader follows five friends from childhood into adulthood. "Parris Mitchell", and his childhood friend, "Drake McHugh", portrayed as an adult by Ronald Reagan, have a homosexual relationship. That brought down the wrath of Joseph Breen of the "Hays Office", even before the screenplay was written. Breen is on record as stating:

To attempt to translate such a story to the screen even though it be re-written to conform to the provisions of the Production Code is, in our judgment, a very questionable undertaking from the standpoint of the good and welfare of this industry.

Screenplay writer, Casey Robinson, was given the task of somehow eliminating the "Hayes Office" objections to the novels, incest, nymphomania, euthanasia, and homosexuality, and nude bathing. After several rejected drafts, Robinson was able to get a screenplay past Joseph Breen, that somehow kept the concepts of Henry Bellamann's, 1940 novel. 

Returning to "Universal Pictures", Maria Ouspenskaya found herself, with 3rd-billing, in a very low-budget Edgar Allan Poe based tale. The short story "The Mystery of Marie Roget" was published in 1842. The motion picture was released on April 23, 1942, One-Hundred-Years later, but the studio didn't play up on that interesting point.

The story was another mystery for Poe's detective, "C. Auguste Dupin", but the screenplay turned him into "Dr. Paul Dupin", portrayed by Patrick Knowles. Maria Montez portrayed "Marie Roget", turned from a "Shop Working Girl", into a "Musical Comedy Star". Maria Ouspenskaya portrayed "Madame Cecile Roget", Marie's Grandmother". Poe's short story was based upon the 1838, New York City, disappearance of shopgirl, "Mary Cecilia Rodgers". Who reappeared a few days later, and then shortly after, her body was found floating in the Hudson River.The screenplay moved the Poe story from 1842, Paris, to 1889, Paris.

Above left to right, Lloyd Corrigan portraying "Police Inspector Gobelin", Patrick Knowles portraying "Dr. Paul Dupin", Maria Ouspenskaya portraying "Cecile Roget", and John Litel portraying "Henri Beauvais".

Bosley Crowther, in "The New York Times", had a typical review. Describing the picture as a:

Butchered retelling of [Poe]" and a "dreary, aimless film, devoid of logic or excitement or even a shadows of suspense."

Other reviewers pointed out that the murderer was known from his first appearance at the picture's beginning.

Over a commissary lunch at "Universal Pictures", two men were eating together. They were screenplay writer Curt Siodmak, and producer George Waggner. What took place at that lunch is one of two stories, both told by film historians and reviewers. The common denominator is that Siodmak needed a new car, and that meant more income. 

One version of what happened, has Waggoner needing a new screenplay to produce, and giving the other the title of "Frankenstein Meet the Wolf Man". Adding, Curt Siodmak, had two hours to write the screenplay, and afterwards, he can buy his new car.

The more colorful version of the story, still had Siodmak needing that new car, but without George Waggoner having a title. At which time, Curt, jokingly, suggested the preposterous, "The Wolf Man Eats Frankenstein". Waggoner tells Siodmak, that sounds great, but he only has two-hours to write it, and get it back to the producer. At which time, Curt Siodmak will get the money for the new car.

FRANKENSTEIN MEETS THE WOLF MAN released March 5, 1943

George Waggner's previous motion picture as a produce was 1943's, "Sin Town", starring Constance Bennett, Broderick Crawford, and Patrick Knowles. He would follow this feature as a producer with 1943's, "White Savage", starring Maria Montez, Jon Hall, and Sabu.

Curt Siodmak's previous screenplay had been 1942's, "London Blackout Murders", and he followed this feature with the 1943, Second World War, "The Purple V". 

Roy William Neill directed the motion picture. He had just directed 1942's, "Sherlock Holmes and the Secret Weapon". In all Neil directed 11 "Sherlock Holmes" films starring Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce. Roy William Neill followed this movie with the comedy musical feature, 1943's, "Rhythm of the Island", starring Alan Jones and Andy Devine.  

The Main Cast:

On the above poster, Lon Chaney is the 6th listed name, but on the "Official Cast Listing". His name is in First Position, but as Lon Chaney, Jr. Additionally, the listing shows his role as:

The Wolf Man - Lawrence Stewart Talbot (as Lon Chaney)

One of two interesting changes made by screenplay writer Curt Siodmak to this picture vs 1941's, "The Wolf Man". Is to give "Lawrence 'Larry' Talbot the middle name of "Stewart". Which apparently was used only in the opening grave robber sequence.

Just before this motion picture, Lon Chaney, Jr. portrayed "Kharis" for the 1st time, in the second feature of that series, 1942's, "The Mummy's Tomb". He followed this feature film with 9th-billing, in the 1943 Western, "Frontier Badmen", starring Robert Paige (1943's "Son of Dracula") and Anne Gwynne (1944's "House of Frankenstein).

Ilona Massey portrayed "Baroness Elsa Frankenstein", taking over from Evelyn Ankers in the previous "The Ghost of Frankenstein". Massey had 1st-billing in 1942's, "Invisible Agent", screenplay by Curt Siodmak, co-starring Jon Hall, and featuring Peter Lorre and Sir Cedric Hardwicke. It would be another 3-years before she appeared on-screen again, in the 1946, comedy, "Holiday in Mexico", co-starring Walter Pidgeon.

Above, Ilona Massey and Lon Chaney, Jr.

Patrick Knowles portrayed "Dr. Frank Mannering". Knowles had just been seen in 1943's, "Forever and a Day". Which was an interesting Second World War motion picture. The picture looks at the history of England from 1804 into 1943, through an American, Knowles, going there to sell an old family house. He followed this horror film with 1943's, "Hit the Ice", starring Bud Abbott and Lou Costello. In the film's credits, Patrick Knowles's character is listed as "Dr. Bill Elliot", but in the motion picture his character's name is "Dr. William 'Bill' Burns".

Lionel Atwill portrayed "The Mayor". Atwill had just played "The Napoleon of Crime", "Professor Moriarty", in the Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce, 1942, "Sherlock Holmes and the Secret Weapon". He would follow this movie with the villain, "Cyrus Maldor", in the 1944, chapter serial, "Captain America". My article is "Lionel Atwill: The Legitimate Stage, Classic and Not So Classic Horror, and 'Sherlock Holmes" to read at:

https://www.bewaretheblog.com/2024/04/lionel-atwill-legitimate-stage-classic.html 

Bela Lugosi portrayed "The Frankenstein Monster". Even the great make-up work of Jack P. Pierce could not hide Bela's facial structure in the role. Speaking to that role, Lugosi, wanted to play the monster in director James Whale's original 1931 film, but it went to Boris Karloff. Who portrayed the monster two more times. Then for 1942's, "The Ghost of Frankenstein", which the ghost is "Henry Frankenstein", and not the monster as many still believe. The role went to Lon Chaney, Jr, and Bela reprised his role of "Ygor". Whose brain, Lionel Atwill, transferred into the monster to stop its murderous persona, but instead caused it to become blind. Which upset Bela Lugosi for this picture, having to walk like the blind monster created by Lon to illustrate to the audience that it was blind.

Maria Oupenskaya portrayed "Maleva, the Romani Elder". 

Three Interesting Small Roles:

Dennis Hoey portrayed either, depending on the source, "Police Inspector Owen", or "Detective Owen". Hoey is best known for portraying "Inspector Lestrade", in the "Universal Pictures", "Sherlock Holmes" series. He had just been seen in 1943's, "Forever and a Day", and followed this film with the George Sanders and Ward Bond, Second World War feature, 1943's, "The Came to Blow Up America",

Above left to right, Dennis Hoey, Lon Chaney Jr, and Patrick Knowles.

Dwight Frye portrayed "Rudi". Frye was an uncredited "Fifth Columnist", in 1943's, "Submarine Alert", and followed this movie with another uncredited role as a "Hostage", in 1943's, "Hangmen Also Die!". Below far lower right is Dwight Frye as "Rudi". My article is "DWIGHT FRYE: Overlooked Horror Icon" found at:

https://www.bewaretheblog.com/2019/07/dwight-frye-overlooked-horror-icon.html

Lance Fuller portrayed an "uncredited Vasarian villager". This was Fuller's first on-screen role, but fans of 1950's Cult Science Fiction, know him as "Brack" in 1954's, "This Island Earth", and "Dr. Ted Erickson", in 1956's, "The She-Creature". 

Good luck finding Lance Fuller in either of the following photos. His name is credited at the bottom of the color photo and. he is also in the black and white still.

An Overview of Curt Siodmak's Car Purchasing Screenplay:

It is stated in Curt Siodmak's dialogue for "Frankenstein Meets the Wolf Man", that it is 4-years after the events of "The Wolf Man". Which was needed to explain the death of "Sir John Talbot", and the creation of a tale of wealth buried with his son, "Lawrence". Even though it's was actually only 2-years since "The Wolf Man's" release. 

That slight change wasn't as impactful as the problem with the "Frankenstein Monster" might have been. Which Curt Siodmak, thankfully didn't address. Because there was no way the  "Universal Pictures" "Frankenstein" time line could have matched "The Wolf Man's" time line, if any viewer had actually considered the previous storylines involving "Henry Frankenstein's" creation.

To explain,  I start with the storyline for 1935's, "Bride of Frankenstein". That screenplay takes place in 1931, not 1935, because the opening events immediately continue those at the end of the 1931 picture. While, 1939's, "Son of Frankenstein", with son "Wolf", states, those events happened 25-years after "The Bride". While, 1942's, "The Ghost of Frankenstein", with "Henry's" never before mentioned, second son, "Ludwig Frankenstein", appears to take place a year, or perhaps two, after "Son of Frankenstein", and its ending is the direct tie in to "Frankenstein Meets the Wolf Man".

In the opening sequence of the film. Two grave robbers, portrayed by Cyril Delevanti and Tom Stevenson, are after the "wealth" buried with "Lawrence Stewart Talbot". 

When the older of the two grave robbers discovers "Wolfbane" in "Lawrence Stewart Talbot's" coffin. He then recites the poem from 1941's, "The Wolf Man":

EVEN A MAN WHO IS PURE IN HEART, AND SAYS HIS PRAYERS BY NIGHT. MAY BECOME A WOLF WHEN THE WOLFBANE BLOOMS AND THE  AUTUMN MOON IS BRIGHT!

EXCEPT, that Curt Siodmak has dropped the word "Autumn", and the poem now reads:

EVEN A MAN WHO IS PURE IN HEART, AND SAYS HIS PRAYERS BY NIGHT. MAY BECOME A WOLF WHEN THE WOLFBANE BLOOMS AND THE MOON IS BRIGHT!

The way Curt Siodmak sets up the story, the picture has two distinct parts. The first, is a direct sequel to his screenplay for "The Wolf Man". While the second, begins as a direct sequel to 1942's "The Ghost of Frankenstein". While not explaining the difficulties with the two time lines I have mentioned above.

The grave robbers remove some of the wolfsbane around the face of "Lawrence Stewart Talbot". Next, the expected sequence by the audience takes place. When the moon shines on his face, "Larry", once again, becomes a werewolf, and kills one of the two grave robbers.

Note:

It was planned to have "Talbot's" clothing looking worn from four-years in a coffin, but that was changed when filming began.

Next, "Lawrence Talbot" is found unconscious on a street in Cardiff, with the head wound caused by his father looking new, and not from 4-years-before. To the police who found him, it seems that the man identifying himself as "Lawrence Talbot", had been attacked that night, and he is taken to the hospital and the care of "Dr. Mannering" for treatment. 

During the full moon that night, "Lawrence Stewart Talbot", is able to get out his hospital room. On the streets of Cardiff, "The Wolf Man" kills a police constable, and returns to his hospital room, all unseen. The following morning, "Talbot" remembers everything, and tells both "Dr. Mannering" and "Detective Owen", who has come to get information about who attacked him in Cardiff?

"Detective Owen" leaves after speaking to "Dr. Mannering's" patient. When he returns, informs "Larry", that "Lawrence Stewart Talbot" died four-years ago.  and wants to know who he really is? This causes "Talbot" to become violent, hospital orderlies overcome him, and he is tied with leather straps to his bed.

Not believing "Larry's" story, both "Dr. Mannering", and "Detective Owen", travel to the village of Llanwelly, and the "Talbot Estate". While, "Larry" turns into "The Wolf Man", bites through his bonds, and escapes, looking for the one person who will believe him, the "Romani Leader Maleva".

"Mannering" and "Owen" find the surviving grave robber and are taken to the "Talbot Family Crypt". In the crypt, the two are shown the dead grave robber, mutilated in the same manner as the Cardiff police officer. Next, the two are shown the empty coffin of "Lawrence Stewart Talbot", filled with wolfbane.  

End of Part One, Overview of Part Two:

Meanwhile, "Larry" finds "Maleva", he tells her everything that has happened, and begs her for help. She has heard of a scientist, a "Dr. Ludwig Frankenstein", who might help him. "Maleva" agrees to help, and the two leave for the village of Vasaria.

Arriving in Vasaria, the two meet the Inn Keeper, "Vazec", portrayed by Rex Evan. He tells them of the murder of his daughter by the monster, and that the "Frankenstein Chateau" is in ruins. Adding that, "Ludwig Frankenstein" is dead, but he does have a living daughter.

Above left to right, Lon Chaney, Jr., Maria Ouspenskaya, and Rex Evans

That night, under the influence of the full moon, "Lawrence Stewart Talbot" transforms into the "Wolf Man", and kills a young woman. Still in werewolf form, "Larry Talbot" is chased by a mob to the ruins of the "Frankenstein Chateau". Where he falls through the floorboards to an ice bound cellar. 

Note: 

"Ludwig Frankenstein's" chateau in 1942's, "The Ghost of Frankenstein" was burned down at the climax. This ice cavern is explained as a natural ice formation underneath the chateau's location, because during the "The Ghost of Frankenstein", there is no mention of such a cavern.

Morning comes, "Larry" starts to look around, and discovers frozen in ice, the "Frankenstein Monster". Next, he sets the monster free, hoping it will lead him to "Frankenstein's" notes. Which is an interesting plot point in the screenplay, because the creature, as I have mentioned, is blind from having "Ygor's" brain transplanted into it with the wrong blood type. Thus asking the viewer to believe the monster can find the notes, without seeing where he is going?

The monster, of course, cannot locate "Henry Frankenstein's" actual notes, but perhaps "Ludwig's" daughter can? Leaving "Henry Frankenstein's" creation at the chateau's ruins. "Larry" goes to locate, "Baroness Elsa Frankenstein", "Ludwig's" daughter. He poses as a potential buyer of the "Frankenstein" estate. Which, the suspicious "Elsa Frankenstein", informs him is not for sale.

The "Mayor of Vasaria", seeing the two together, invites the pair to the "Festival of the New Wine". There, they are joined by "Dr. Mannering", who has followed "Maleva" and "Larry" and attempts to convince him that he needs to commit himself to a mental institution for care. Still not believing that "Lawrence Stewart Talbot" can physically change his form into a wolf. To "Dr. Mannering", "Larry Talbot" needs major supervised medical care, because of his delusional state.

The festival is interrupted by the arrival of the "Frankenstein Monster" looking for "Lawrence Talbot". "Larry" gets it into a cart and he drives the monster back to the ruins of the "Frankenstein" chateau. "Dr. Manning" and "Elsa Frankenstein" agree with the "Mayor

and the villagers that the monster needs to be killed, but ask to let the two of them destroy it.

The following morning "Baroness Elsa Frankenstein" presents "Dr. Manning" with her grandfather's journal and notes, at a meeting with "Maleva", and "Larry".

"Larry" asks that his energy be transferred into the monster, believing it will help change its nature. What "Lawrence Stewart Talbot" doesn't know, is that "Dr. Mannering" and "Elsa" plan to drain both "Henry Frankenstein's" creation and himself of their energy. Hopefully killing both the "Frankenstein Monster", and the "Monster", that tragically, he has become.

Like other's in the previous "Frankenstein" entries. "Dr. Manning" forgets his mission, and wants to see the monster at its full strength, thus horrifying "Elsa". 

Meanwhile, the innkeeper, "Vazec", plans to blow up the dam beside the ruins, and starts to plant dynamite at its base.

However, the moon comes out and shines in a window, as "Larry Talbot" transforms. 

Both "Frankenstein's" monster and the werewolf break their bonds, Next, the monster starts to carry "Elsa Frankenstein" away, but the werewolf attacks, freeing her.

The dam is blown and the water rushes toward the ruins, "Elsa" and "Dr. Mannering" just escape as the rushing water sweeps the "Frankenstein Monster" and "The Wolf Man" away by its power. 

So, what became of "Maleva"? Prior to "Dr. Mannering" and "Elsa Frankenstein's" laboratory scenes. The "Romani Leader" just disappears from Curt Siodmak's screenplay. Her purpose to get "Larry" to Vasaria completed.

His name was Edgar Rice Burroughs and a suburb of Los Angeles would be named for one of his characters, becoming "Tarzana". That suburb was also part of the location of his home and office on Burroughs's sprawling 540 acre ranch in the San Fernando Valley. My article about the author's science fiction novels and motion pictures is "Before 'STAR WARS': There Was Edgar Rice Burroughs", found at:

https://www.bewaretheblog.com/2016/01/before-star-wars-there-was-edgar-rice.html 

TARZAN AND THE AMAZONS released on April 29,1945

This was the 19th "Tarzan" movie since 1918.

German born Hans Jacoby, billed as John Jacoby wrote the original story and was one of the two screenplay writers His others included adapting French author Gaston Leroux's, "Phantom of the Opera", into a motion picture story for the 1943 film starring Claude Rains.

Marjorie L. Pfaeizer co-wrote the screenplay. She only wrote two, and her other was 1944's, "Three is a Family", a comedy starring Majorie Reynolds and Charles "Charlie" Ruggles.

Kurt Neumann directed the feature film. He had just directed the mystery, 1943's, "The Unknown Guest", starring Victor Jory. He followed this "Tarzan" entry with 1946's, "Tarzan and the Leopard Woman", and, 1947's, "Tarzan and the Huntress". For fans of 1950's cult science fiction movies, Neumann directed 1950's, "Rocketship X-M: Expedition Moon", 1957's, "KRONOS", and the original, 1958, "The Fly".

Johnny Weissmuller portrayed "Tarzan". This was his 9th of 12-films, and not once he is "Lord Greystoke". Weissmuller had just been seen in 1943's, "Tarzan's Desert Mystery", and followed this feature film with 1946's, "Tarzan and the Leopard Woman".

Brenda Joyce was "Jane". This was her first film in the role. She had just starred in the musical, 1943's, "Thumbs Up!", with Elsa Lanchester, and followed this picture with the 1945 comedy, "I'll Tell the World", co-starring Lee Tracy.

Johnny Sheffield portrayed "Boy", in his 5th "Tarzan" movie. Starting in 1949, the now teenage Sheffield, starred in 12-movies as "Bomba, the Jungle Boy". 

Maria Ouspenskaya billed as "Madame" Maria Ouspenskaya, portrayed the Amazon Queen.

Henry Stephenson portrayed "Sir Guy Henderson". Henderson had just been in the 1944 comedy musical, the "Reckless Age", and followed this film with a role in the drama, 1946's, "The Green Years".

Barton MacLane billed as Barton Maclane, portrayed "Ballister". MacLane had just been seen in the James Craig and Donna Reed, 1944 western, "Gentle Annie", and followed this picture with the comedy mystery, 1945's, "Scared Stiff", starring the "Wizard of Oz's", Jack Haley. Also, he was one tough cop as "Detective Dundy", in John Ford's, 1941, "The Maltese Falcon, and against character. He was Glenda Farrell's boyfriend, "Steve McBride", in the "Torchy Blane" movie series.

Above, Barton MacLane, and Brenda Joyce's "Jane", without the jungle look. "Jane" is returning from Great Britain, after supporting the War effort there.

The Typical "Tarzan" Story:

Meanwhile in the jungle, a young woman is attacked by a black panther, twisting her leg as she attempts to escape. "Tarzan" appears and rescues her, but unknown to both of them. She has dropped a bracelet and it is picked up by "Tarzan's" pet chimpanzee, "Cheeta".

Telling "Boy" to wait for him, "Tarzan" will carry the young "Amazon" back to her people through a secret mountain path. Of course, "Boy" disobeys "Tarzan", follows, and sees the "Lost Amazon City of Palmyria". After which, he then returns to where "Tarzan" told him to wait. While in the city, "Tarzan" brings the injured Amazon warrior back to her ancient tribe.

"Tarzan", known to the "Queen of the Amazon's", vows never to reveal the location of the Amazon city and his word is accepted.

The story switches to the reunion of the family, "Tarzan", "Boy", and "Jane", having returned from her trip to Great Britain. She is accompanied by explorer "Sir Guy Henderson" and his party. "Jane" had met both the villainess "Ballister", and the explorer, on-board her passenger liner. 

Above left to right, Brenda Joyce, Johnny Weissmuller, Steven Geray portraying "Brenner", and Henry Stephenson

Next, "Henderson" sees the Amazon bracelet that "Cheeta" is playing with. Taking it from the chimp, "Sir Guy" studies the bracelet's marking and realizes it came from "Palmyria". He asks "Tarzan" to guide his party to the Lost City, but the other refuses keeping his pledge to the Queen.

However, "Boy" is duped into believing he is advancing science and leads "Sir Guy Henderson's" party to the Amazon's. Where they are all captured and brought before the Amazon Queen and their God.

Instead of imposing the death penalty on the group of trespassers, the Queen orders that they be sent to the quarries to work with the other men for the rest of their lives. However, the Amazon woman that "Tarzan" saved, takes pity of the group and releases them. "Ballister" and "Anders", portrayed by Don Douglas, want to plunder the Amazon treasure room. "Henderson" objects, and is killed by "Ballister". Who had fatally stabbed the young woman that helped the group, but before she dies. The young Amazon sees to "Boy's" escape and sounds the alarm. The Amazon's attack, and with the exception of "Ballister" and "Ander's'", the other looters are killed, but "Boy" is recaptured and condemned to die.

The typical climax comes, when "Cheeta", who had been with "Boy", is able to reach "Tarzan of the Apes", and he goes to rescue his adopted son. On the way, he finds "Ballister" and "Anders", and is able to back the two criminals into a mud bog and watch both sink to their deaths. 

Taking the Amazon treasure with him, "Tarzan" is able to trade them for the life of "Boy". Renewing his promise to keep the location of Palmyria secret, as does "Boy" promise the Amazon Queen. After a lesson well learned.

From the "Queen of the Amazon's", Maria Ouspenskaya became the mother of a concert pianist.

I'VE ALWAYS LOVED YOU premiered in London on June 28, 1946

This "Republic Pictures", still holds as the most expensive movie that studio ever made. The feature film is more interesting for who wrote it, who directed it, and who was in it? Rather than the apparently dull movie it actually was, as described in a September 7, 1946, review by the "New York Times", major film critic, Bosley Crowther:

In short, it is one of those pictures which takes on a terribly phoney air about the rapturous realms of music and the beauty of simple, home-grown love. (Why protest that, in the story, there is a hopeless confusion of ideals?)

As to who wrote it? 

That would be Borden Chase, who based his screenplay on his own short story, "Concerto". That was based upon the music career of his first wife. Chase wrote, among other films, John Wayne's, 1944, "The Fighting Seabees", 1945, "Flame of Barbary Coast", and, 1947's, "Tycoon". Borden Chase received critical praise for writing director Howard Hawks's, 1948, "Red River". He also wrote for James Stewart, 1950's, "Winchester '73", 1952's, "Bend in the River", and 1954's, "The Far Country". For Burt Lancaster, Borden Chase wrote, 1954's, "His Majesty O'Keefe", and the same years, "Vera Cruz".

As to who directed it?

That would be Frank Borzage, besides directing the previously mentioned, 1940, "The Mortal Storm". Borzage was the winner of the first "Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Best Director Oscar". Which he received for 1927's, "7th Heaven", starring Janet Gaynor and Charles Farrell. Frank Borzage had just directed Paul Henreid, Maureen O'Hara, and Walter Slezak, in the 1945 pirate feature, "The Spanish Main". He followed this feature film by directing Ginger Rodgers, David Niven, and Burgess Meredith, in 1946's, "Magnificent Doll", about the future wife of "President James Madison". Among Borzage's earlier sound work is the 1932 version of Ernest Hemingway's, "A Farewell to Arms", starring Helen Hayes and Gary Cooper, and the comedy crime drama, 1936's, "Desire", starring Marlene Dietrich and Gary Cooper.

As to who was in it?

Philip Dorn portrayed concert pianist, "Leopold Goronoff". Dorn was born in the Netherlands as Hein van der Niet. From 1934 through 1939, he appeared in Dutch and German movies as Fritz van Dongen. On April 19, 1940, American audiences saw the premier of "Enemy Agent", starring Richard Cromwell, Helen Vinson, and Robert Armstrong, and featuring an actor now named Philip Dorn.

Catherine McLeod portrayed "Myra Hassman". McLeod was just seen in an uncredited role as "Louise" in the 1946 musical, "The Harvey Girls", starring Judy Garland. Billed as Catherine Francis McLeod, she followed this movie with 7th-billing in 1946's, "Courage of Lassie". On September 11, 1949, the actress first appeared on television, which would become her main source of income through 1981. This was on "The Philco Television Playhouse", in the episode, "Pride's Castle", co-starring with Anthony Quinn. 

There are two roles that make Catherine McLeod trivia memorable:

1. On January 12, 1958, on television's "Maverick", in the episode entitled, "Rage for Vengeance". Catherine McLeod portrayed "Margaret Ross", and James Garner was "Bret Maverick". "Margaret Ross" is the only woman that "Bret" falls in love with and is thinking of marriage during the entire series. However, the $200,000 he is her bodyguard for, turns out to be counterfeit, and "Margaret" is a criminal.

2. Catherine McLeod during 1963, became forever associated with the pain reliever "Anacin". As the result of a popular television commercial. Where her irritable housewife yells at her mother:

"Mother, please! I'd rather do it myself!" 

Followed by the announcer saying:

"Sure you have a headache... tense, irritable.... but don't take it out on her."

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1166194967937249

Arthur William Carter, Jr. billed as William Carter, portrayed "George Sampter". His total motion picture work was 7-films, including the 1961 Italian science fiction, "Il planeta degli uomini spenti (The Planet of Dead Men)" aka: "Battle of the Worlds", starring Claude Rains. 

The following comes from a November 11, 1965 obituary in the "Los Angeles Times":

Arthur William (Bill) Carter Jr., 76, actor in films of the 1940s and 1950s, war hero and Catholic representative to the United Nations. A native of England, Carter served as a lieutenant with the British infantry in North Africa during World War II and was wounded and briefly held by the Germans when they took Tobruk. He recuperated in Hollywood by tending a Victory garden. Carter’s films included “My Kingdom for a Cook,” “Where Do We Go From Here?” and “I’ve Always Loved You.” He also swam with Billy Rose’s Aquacades and was a Golden Gloves light heavyweight boxing champion.

Maria Ouspenskaya billed as Madame Maria Ouspenskaya portrayed "Madame Goronoff, the mother of Leopold". 

This is a two generation story about concert pianist "Leopold Goronoff". Who takes as a pupal the daughter of "Legendary Pianist, Frederick Hassman", portrayed by Felix Bressart, "Myra Hassman". She plays the work of Sergei Rachmaninoff beautifully when "Leopold" and "Myra" first meet at her rural country home with her father.

"Leopold" decides to  take "Myra" to New York City to study. This is over the wishes of "George Sampter", a farmer who is in love with her. 

Above the character's are left to right, "George", "Myra", and "Leopold", the night she is told of the move to New York City.

After coming to New York City, "Myra" continues to show she is an excellent pianist. A side of "Leopold" is revealed, as he belittles her, because she is a woman and excels at the piano. However, the two seem to have fallen in love. Yet, he also a cheats on her with other women. 

However, a semi-climatic scene comes, after "Leopold" arranges for "Myra" to perform at Carnegie Hall.

There she performs Rachmaninoff while "Leopold" conducts the orchestra. "Myra's" delivers a stronger performance than "Leopold" had believed she would give. As she continues to play, "Myra" sees a scornful look on "Leopold's" face, causing her to stop and run off stage. Enraged, "Leopold"  confronts "Myra" and demands why she is copying "His" style. of playing? Does she think her playing is superior to his?

After "Myra" leaves the concert hall, "Leopold's" mother, "Madame Goronoff" approaches her son and tells him that "Myra" is superior to him.

Which is basically why "Maria Ouspenskaya's" role is this film's first half. 

"Myrna" returns to the countryside she grew up in and "George". The two will get married and have a daughter, "Georgette 'Porgy' Sampter". The audience sees "Porgy, age 5", portrayed by Gloria Donovan, and then as the main character and pianist, "Porgy, age 17", portrayed by Vanessa Brown.

While this is happening, "Leopold" is still in love with "Myra", and he wants to be with her. At this point, Maria Ouspenskaya's "Madame Goronoff" lectures her son to stay away from "Myra", and that music is his true mistress. Just before his mother dies, knowing he still thinks of "Myra", his mother warns him to stay way from her, as she will bring him unhappiness.

While "Porgy" was growing up, she was taught piano by professor "Michael Severin", portrayed by Lewis Howard. At the same time, her mother keeps having doubts about breaking up with "Leopold" and marrying "George". This all comes to a head, when "Porgy" and her mother, suggested by "George",  visit "Leopold" for his opinion on "Porgy's" playing. "Leopold" is impressed and he arranges a concert at Carnegie Hall. 

Two things now take place, the first is "Leopold" asks "Myra" why she married "George"? The second, instead of "Porgy" playing, "Myra", in a command performance, plays. She now has no lingering doubts about marrying "George".

Next for the actress, she appeared in a small role in what was suppose to be "Republic Pictures" move to an "A" List Western. Raising the studio into competition with films such as "Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer's", 1947', "Sea of Grass", starring Spencer Tracy, and Katharine Hepburn, and "Ramrod", starring Joel McCrea and Veronica Lake, and from "Allied Artists",  "Black Gold", starring Anthony Quinn and Katherine DeMille. 

WYOMING released on July 28, 1947

There were two screenplay writers on the production Lawrence Hazard had just written the 1945 comedy, "She Went to the Races", with 3rd-billed, Ava Gardner. He followed this film with the Bill Elliott billed as William Elliott, "B" western, 1947's, "The Fabulous Texan".

Gerald Geraghty had just written the Roy Rodgers, Trigger, and Dale Evans, 1947, musical western, "Apache Rose", and followed this movie with the Roy Rodgers, Trigger, and Tito Guizar musical western, 1947's, "On the Spanish Trail".

The motion picture was directed by Joseph Kane billed as Joe Kane. Just before this picture, he directed 1946's, "Plainsman and the Lady", starring Bill Elliott billed as William Elliott and Vera Ralston. He followed this feature film with 1948's, "Old Los Angeles", starring Bill Elliott billed as William Elliott, John Carroll, and Catherine McLeod.

The Main Cast:

William Elliott portrayed "Charles Alderson". Unknown student actor Gordon Nance, first became Gordon Elliott, his stage name at the "Pasadena Playhouse". He kept that name, beginning with his first film in 1925, until 1937, when he became Bill Elliott. That lasted until 1943, when starring in "B" Western's, he became "Wild Bill Elliott", which would last until his final feature. However, with this motion picture, he became, for a short time, the more proper, William Elliot. Which would start to interchange with "Wild Bill Elliott" as the role required. I would also note, that between 1945 and 1946, Bill Elliott started in 16-feature films as the Sunday Comic Strip character "Red Ryder".

Vera Ralston portrayed "Karen Alderson", both as the mother and the grown daughter of the same name. Vera Helena Hruba was born in Prague, Czechoslovakia. She became a major actress at "Republic Studios". Of course, part of that had to do with the fact she married the studio's owner and founder, Herbert J. Yates. As I mentioned, she had just co-starred with William Elliott, in 1946's, "The Plainsman and the Lady". Ralston followed this picture with the film-noir, 1947's, "The Flame", co-starring with John Carroll and Robert Paige.

John Carroll portrayed "Glenn Forester". Solid supporting actor and sometimes co-star, Carroll had just appeared in 1947's, "Fiesta", starring swim star, Esther Williams, Akim Tamiroff, and Ricardo Montalban. He followed this film with 1947's, "The Fabulous Texan", co-starring with William Elliott and Catherine McLeod. 

George "Gabby" Hayes portrayed "Windy Gibson". Western side-kick Hayes had just been seen in the Randolph Scott, Robert Ryan, and Ann Jeffreys, 1947, "Trail Street". He followed this motion picture co-starring with Randolph Scott and Barbara Britton, in 1948's, "Albuquerque". My article is "George 'Gabby' Hayes: Being a 'Cowboy' Sidekick" at:

https://www.bewaretheblog.com/2020/03/george-gabby-hayes-being-b-cowboy.html 

Albert Dekker portrayed "Duke Lassiter". Thomas Albert Ecke Van Dekker was a versatile actor on both the legitimate stage and celluloid. He was "King Louis XIII" in 1939's, "The Man in the Iron Mask", directed by James Whale, the title mad scientist of 1940's "Dr. Cyclops", the criminal mastermind in Ernest Hemingway's, 1946's, "The Killers"directed by Robert Siodmak, and the fictional "Alexander Kain", in 1950's, "The Kid from Texas", starring Audie Murphy as "Billy the Kid".

Virginia Grey portrayed "Lila Regan". Grey had just co-starred with two "Tarzan" actors, Johnny Weismuller and Buster Crabbe in 1946's, "Swamp Fire". and followed this feature with Cecil B. DeMille's, "Unconquered".

Maria Ouspenskaya billed as Madame Maria Ouspenkaya portrayed "Maria". 

The Basic Screenplay:

This is an overlooked and somewhat forgotten western. Probably because of its star, Bill Elliott. Who instead of calling him William Elliott, many reviewers list him, typed cast, as "Wild Bill Elliott". 

The screenplay attempts to have the scope of a Edna Ferber novel such as "Cimarron". We first meet "Charles Alderson", his pregnant wife, "Karen", and her "Aunt Maria", under attack by Native American's. They are rescued by "Windy Gibson", a one time lawyer, and with "Charles", the two become partners in what will become the largest ranch in Wyoming.

However, "Anderson's" plans for Wyoming is slowed down, when his wife dies in childbirth, and he name's his daughter, "Karen" after her. 

As the story progresses, the audience is shown "Karen, age 3", portrayed by Linda Green, "Karen, age 9", portrayed by Louise Kane, and finally, "Karen", portrayed by co-star Vera Ralston.

Maria Ouspenskaya's character of "Aunt Maria", is the nursemaid for her niece's daughter and her traveling companion while growing up and going to the best schools in Europe. 

Now, the story progresses to the big ranchers, like "Alderson", against the homesteaders, led by Albert Dekker's, "Duke Lassiter". After "Karen" returns, she falls in love with her father's foreman, John Carroll's, "Glenn Forester". Who is loyal to his future-father-in-law, but also the law. As his character gets stuck in the middle of ranchers vs homesteaders.

For only an 84-minute movie, the film covers a lot of territory and gives William Elliott a flawed character, rather than his "Wild Bill Elliott - Red Ryder" perfect hero.

"Wyoming" was followed by Maria Ouspenskaya's final on-screen appearance in the David Niven and Jane Wyman, "Kiss in the Dark", that premiered in New York City, on March 25, 1949.

Her role was that of "Madame Karina", a musical friend of concert pianist, "Eric Philips", portrayed by David Niven. Who after 21-years of touring, falls in love with model, "Polly Haines", portrayed by Jane Wyman.

Nine months after the release of "A Kiss in the Dark", MARIA ALEKSEYEVNA OUSPENSKAYA died on December 3, 1949, she was 73-years-old. The actress had a stroke and suffered severe burns in a house fire, caused by her smoking in bed.