A successful Broadway star ready to retire from her wild career announces her engagement. But her tumultuous past isn't done with her yet.
Acting
Dorothy Mackaill's ferocious hula scene breaks every decency code.
Direction
Young Michael Curtiz already shows his mastery of shadows and pace.
Costume
Louanne's wardrobe screams fallen luxury and desperation.

Director
Michael Curtiz
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
This is peak Pre-Code: made before the Hays Code enforcement, when Hollywood could actually show women enjoying sin.
The 'hula-hula' scene became legendary — Dorothy Mackaill reportedly learned authentic Hawaiian dance for authenticity that scandalized censors.