Smilin' Through (1932)(dvd)

Synopsis: The famous and much-loved stage play Smilin' Through was filmed as a silent with Norma Talmadge in 1922. This first sound version, Oscar-nominated for best picture, showcases Norma Shearer — en route to mega-stardom — with Fredric March and Leslie Howard under the polished direction of Sidney Franklin. Set in England and spanning the years from 1868 to 1918, it's a sentimental romantic drama, with a crucial fantasy element and a message of love and forgiveness.
The complicated plot involves Howard, reclusive and bitter after his adored bride (Shearer) was shot at the altar by a jealous suitor (March), his orphaned niece (Shearer again) who is the spitting image of his dead beloved and brings some joy back to his life, and the anguish suffered by all when she falls in love with the killer's son (March again). This is hard to swallow now, but cynicism is quelled by the sheer class of Irving Thalberg's MGM production and the sincerity and expertise of the performances.

Cast: Norma Shearer
Runtime: 98 min