Let's Misbehave: A Tribute to Precode Hollywood

Below is another selection of intriguing and revealing behind-the-scene stills from several well-known Precode films. For more images of actors and film-makers interacting when the camera stopped rolling check out my previous post here.

1) Sylvia Sidney on the set of ‘Behold My Wife’ (1934)

2) Nancy Carroll & Richard Arlen on the set of ‘Dangerous Paradise’ (1930)

3) Spencer Tracy taking a photo of Madge Evans on the set of ‘The Show Off’ (1934)

4) The Stooges and Ted Healy with Joan Crawford and Clark Gable on the set of ‘Dancing Lady’ (1933)

5) Buster Keaton on the MGM sound stage used for ‘Speak Easily’ (1932)

6) Warren Williams and Alice White on the set of ‘Employees Entrance’ (1933)

7) Jean Harlow prepping for scenes in ‘Bombshell’ (1933)

8) W.S. Van Dyke directs Myrna Loy and William Powell on the set of ‘The Thin Man’ (1934)

9) Bela Lugosi, Helen Chandler and Tod Browning taking a break on the set of the iconic ‘Dracula’ (1931)

10) Ernst Lubitsch, Frederic March, Miriam Hopkins and Gary Cooper on the set of ‘Design for Living’ (1933)

11) Cary Grant reading a script on the set of ‘Thirty Day Princess’ (1934)

12) Lupino Lane, Ernst Lubitsch, Jeanette MacDonald, Maurice Chevalier and crew on the set of ‘The Love Parade’ (1929)

13) Director Rouben Mamoulian with Marlene Dietrich and Amelia Earhart on the set of ‘The Song of Songs’ (1933)

14) Frank Capra, Adolf Menjou and Barbara Stanwyck chatting during filming of ‘Forbidden’ (1932)

15) A young Alfred Hitchcock and Anny Ondra filming ‘Blackmail’ (1929)

Carrying on from a few posts I did years ago I am hoping to do a weekly post on interesting news events and gossip from Pre-code Hollywood history. This can include everything from marriages to breakups, babies, film developments and release results. Let me know what you think of the pieces. The first highlights this week (January 8 to 14) and the newsworthy events in 1929, 1930, 1931, 1932, 1933 and 1934. Enjoy!

- 1929:

Alma Rubens

Objections to Alma Rubens’ Prowling – Actress Alma Rubens was not behaving to the satisfaction of her neighbours in 1929. A number of them her summoned to court on a charge of disturbing the peace with the actress pleading not guilty. It seemed Miss Rubens had a habit of prowling at all hours with a flashlight looking for something she never seemed to find.

Lon Chaney for Silence Only– Lon Chaney flatly refused to appear in talking pictures. He issued his decision when MGM officials tried to pursue him to appear in a talking short with other stars. Mr Chaney says he made his reputation as an interpreter of mysterious characters, that he has only one voice and it can’t be changed as he changes his makeup or character.

WAMPAS Elects Baby Stars– These lucky ladies were elected as the 1929 WAMPAS Baby Stars in January of that year: Jean Arthur, Doris Hill, Anita Page, Josephine Dunn, Loretta Young, Doris Dawson, Sally Blane, Betty Boyd, Helen Twelvetrees, Mona Rico, Ethlyn Claire, Caryl Lincoln and Helen
Foster.

The WAMPAS Baby Stars of 1929

- 1930:

Hawks’ Unit on Retakes when Air Crash Kills 10– ten men were announced to have perished over the Pacific during the making of ‘Such Men Are Dangerous’ for Fox. The film was finished ten days before the disaster occurred but director Kenneth Hawks wanted to make retakes. It was during the retakes that two planes collided and fell burning into the sea. Crew from a third plane witnessed the tragedy.

Mayer-Thalberg Contracts With Metro for 5 Years– Louis B. Mayer and Irving Thalberg of Metro studios and J. Robert Rubin, Metro’s counsel in New York, agreed upon new contracts for five years each in 1930. Under the agreements Mayer will have full charge of all business affairs and Thalberg will be in full charge of production.

Louis B. Mayer and Irving Thalberg

Benson Unit Changes– Elimination of the femme lead, withdrawal of Phillip Holmes from the cast and a switch in directors were the changes made to Paramount’s ‘Benson Murder Case’, starring William Powell. Frank Tuttle replaced Louis Gasnier as director.

- 1931:

Lil Bond Gets Film Start in Stage Part– MGM announced it had obtained talker rights to ‘Stepping High’ in which Lillian Bond appeared on stage. Talker version was the first try for Miss Bond in pictures.

Lillian Bond

Mob Censors Cartoon– Spurred by the peasants’ clergy, a mob of countrymen started a demonstration against Disney comic cartoon ‘The Ghostly Hour’ in the town of Klaganfuris, Austria. The churchman said the trick shots of puppet skeletons dancing in a graveyard were “irreligious, immoral and blasphemous”.

‘Quiet’ Now Banned in Vienna– All was finally quiet on the cinema western front by surrender of the Austrian Government to demonstrations of a few thousand hoodlums against Universal’s ‘All Quiet’. The prohibition followed three days in which the busiest part of Vienna was transformed into a real battlefield with mounted police charging the crowd and making 50 arrests after rioters smashed shop windows and caused heavy damage.

- 1932:

Dodging Hawaii – Radio’s ‘Bird of Paradise’ unit relocated in Florida in 1932 instead of Honolulu because of reported turmoil over attacks by natives on white women there.

Ignore Television– Television failed to create any big excitement at the annual convention of the American Association for the Advancement of Science at New Orleans. Television was notably absent from the major displays and had only a minor presentation.

Gilbert’s Gratis Offer– John Gilbert was so anxious to play the baron in ‘Grand Hotel’ that he offered to work gratis for the film. Metro assigned the part to John Barrymore.

‘Sell or Starve’ Routine Makes Fan Mag Writers Coast Bloodhounds– Variety paper exposed the lengths tabloids went to uncover dirt news and pictures. These included stealing portraits using candid cameras, working the friends of film names, posing as somebody else, talking to servants/ beauty shop workers and ‘going at it keyhole wise’. The paper named Greta Garbo as a target with photographers climbing a tree in Garbo’s backyard to get unexposed photos of her.

Greta Garbo

- 1933:

Zukor is 60– Adolph Zukor celebrated his 60^thbirthday on Janurary 7 with a small party at his home.

Dorothy Burgess’ Jam Over Auto Accident– actress Dorothy Burgess was the target for a $25,000 damage suit and faced manslaughter charges. This was a result of a late December, 1932 auto accident in which her car collided with another and killed, Louise Manfredl, 17.

Dorothy Burgess

Dietrich Still Objects– Although Paramount withdrew its $185,000 suit against Marlene Dietrich and she had agreed to begin work on January 16 on ‘Song of Songs’, she appeared on the lot on January 6 and told the studio executives the story was even less to her liking in its present form than it had heretofore been. She declared she could not give her part a justifiable characterization. Someone must have talked her around as the film was released, with Dietrich in the starring role, in July 1933.

- 1934:

Waxing Mae– Mae West was the newest personality to enter the halls of Mme. Tussaud’s Wax Works, London in 1934. Paramount in New York was notified via cable and shipped a dress worn by Miss West in one of her pictures.

Mae West

Grant’s Illness Slows Paramount’s ‘Come on Marines’– ‘Come On Marines’ on Paramount’s schedule for last month was shelved temporarily caused by the illness of Cary Grant in England and a partial story revamp by Byron Morgan. I’m not sure what happened between January 8 and the film’s release on March 23 but Grant did not appear in the picture.

Everything you need to know about the goings-ons and gossip from this week in Precode Hollywood.

- 1929:

$15 Daily for Animal Imitators in Sound Films– Dave Allen, head of the Central Casting Bureau, got a call for a man who could howl like a dog. Request came from Fox for a Movietone production. Only one man was found on the books. Since talkers have come in calls have come to the central office for people to imitate parrots, chickens and cats.

Sue Carol’s Divorce– One of those ‘career’ divorce suits has been filed against Sue Carol, Fox player, by Allen H. Keefer, livestock commission man. Keefer and Miss Carol were married in 1925 and Miss Carol answered to the name Evelyn Lederer. Later the bride went vacationing on the Coast and happened into pictures. Keefer says he asked her to come home but she apparently refuses to sacrifice a career in favour of a domestic existence.

Actress, Sue Carol

Broadway Melody– ‘Broadway Melody’ first MGM comedy with music will have its world premiere at Grauman’s Chinese on January 24.

- 1930:

Coloured Hallelujah Going to Jacksonville – ‘Hallelujah’ has been booked to open January 18 at the Palace, Jacksonville. This is the first southern booking for the all-coloured picture and was made only after a film critic conducted through her columns an open forum to bring out sentiment.

A scene from 'Hallelujah'

Toning Down ‘Ex-Wife’– With the Hays office objecting to ‘Ex-wife’, and Metro announcing abandonment, it is understood the studio will tone down the objectionable features in the story, change the title and made it at a later date.

- 1931:

Ayres Walks, Returns – After walking off the ‘Iron Man’ set at Universal on January 17 over a salary dispute, Lew Ayres was back on the job three days later. He had a long talk to Junior Laemmle and resolved the dispute. Ayres reported demands followed his success of ‘Doorway to Hell’ and Warners interest in his services.

Lew Ayres and Jean Harlow in 'Iron Man'

Kay’s 930,000– This week in 1931, Kay Francis finalised her five year contract with Warners. It was for five years with Kay receiving $930,000 for the entire period. Her services start at $30,000 per picture.

Clara Getting Tough Break Says Paramount– Paramount has no immediate intention to call it quits with Clara Bow, although recent developments including placing Sylvia Sidney in a picture Miss Bow was to have made, made it appear that the redhead was on her way out. The film was ‘City Streets’. Paramount scheduled ‘Working Girl’ based on the play ‘Blind Mice’ as the next Bow picture. Miss Bow’s latest trouble, with Daisy DeVoe has the daily papers again shooting the harpoon into her ‘because she is good copy’. Whether this incident will affect her sales is something else again.

- 1932:

Just Garbo – Metro will hereafter only bill Greta Garbo by her last name. As far as known it’s the first time any film personality has been so exploited.

Just Garbo

Mary Can’t Find Play or Picture – Mary Pickford has abandoned her idea of appearing in a stage play and is looking for a screen story. Says she can’t find a suitable play. The story she is seeking must have a ‘down to earth’ plot, be a comedy and be okay for kids.

Frank, the Fed– As a teaser campaign for ‘Frankenstein’, eight girls were employed to call everyone in the phone book and say, “Look out, Frankenstein is coming,” and hang up. One of the girls unwittingly called a bootlegger. He was out but the wife got the message. So she pulled the bathtub plug, sewering all evidence before she realised it was a gag.

‘Scarface’ New Title – Not only has Howard Hughes revised ‘Scarface’ but he has also changed the title. The picture, a print of which is now before the New York Censor Board, will be released as ‘The Shame of the Nation’. The film has had its theme changed so it is now described as strictly anti-gunmen propaganda.

- 1933:

Columnists May Yet Split Married Pair – Meddlesome chatterers, fan writers and columnists seem determined to break up the matrimonial life of Joan Crawford and Douglas Fairbanks Jr. Anytime one is seen without the other, the meddlers write a quip about strained relations in the household. Friends of the couple fear if this stuff keeps up it may eventually lead to a split of the couple. (Crawford and Fairbanks broke-up in May that year).

Joan Crawford and Douglas Fairbanks Jr. in 1932

Sanctuary is Off– After a series of headaches, Paramount has called off production on William Faulkner’s ‘Sanctuary’, a novel banned in several states. Trouble started for the studio on the writing of the first treatment which brought about a Hays’ office protest. Story went back for a rewrite and got a change of title to ‘The Story of Temple Drake’. When George Raft read the role assigned to him, he refused to do it. Story returned to the scenario department for still another revamp, but inability of writers to save anything of the original and still keep it clean brought about the ultimate decision to drop it.

- 1934:

Our Gang Grows Up– All of the kid members of the Hal Roach ‘Our Gang’ with exception of two, Spanky McFarland and Stymie Beard, have grown out of their parts and have been given the boot. The first of the new slate of gangsters starts on January 22.

Our Gang around 1930

Mae West Impersonator As Bus Line Shillness – One of the transcontinental bus lines is using a new type of promotional stunt. An actress impersonating Mae West will make the journey from New York to Hollywood. She will be accompanied by a coloured maid, making the usual night stopovers at hotels. Imitation Mae is not required to converse with strangers nor give autographs. Salary $150 weekly, job lasting three to four weeks.

John Gilbert’s Split– John Gilbert and his wife, Virginia Bruce, separated on January 14 with Mrs Gilbert moving to the home of her parents. She took their infant child along. Couple let it be known they could not agree. They were married less than two-years ago.

Harlow, Authoress– Jean Harlow has completed an original novel, ‘Today is Tonight’, and has sold the mag serialisation rights to Cosmopolitan. Player stated the tome some time ago, finishing it during the past two months while she has been one the suspended list at Metro following her demand for tilt in contract salary from $1,500 to $3,000 weekly.

Everything you need to know about the goings-ons and gossip from this week in Precode Hollywood.

- 1929:

Hair Colour Control: Since Alice White signed her new contract as a star for First National, she discovered this company has priority rights on a number of things pertaining to her personal self and manner of living. Among these is the clause that she remain a “brunette of natural auburn hair” unless ordered to change via hair dye of wigs. This was okay with the gal until forced to wear a blond wig in her last three pictures, during which time she experienced a perpetual headache from the weight of the wig. She is now trying to get consent to bleach the auburn tresses to a golden hue but the company is undecided on how she must appear in future stories.

Alice White is 'Showgirl in Hollywood' (1928)

150 Millionaires in Picture Business: Of over 20,000 millionaires in the country, the picture business has 150. Comparative surveys, based more or less on generally acknowledged report, indicate that the film industry has more million-dollar-a-year people and mess millionaires than any of the large industries of the country, ranking third or fourth in scope in the list of American enterprises and far lower insofar as the number of individual fortunes is concerned.

- 1930:

Mackaill Injured: Dorothy Mackaill broke a rib failing against a piano at rehearsal. Bound in tape, she acted the next day. She subsequently collapsed and was sent to bed for rest.

Emily Fitzroy and Dorothy MacKaill in 'The Flirting Widow' (1930)

Rates Kids High: Child film actors are from 10% to 20% above the average school child in muscular and mental development. This is according to Dr Charles K. Taylor, New York psychologist who made the tests here.

No Decision on Mix: Department of Justice wants to prosecute Tom Mix on his tax controversy with the Treasury. Mix was in town last week in a long series of conferences with both justice and treasury officials, leaving without anything definite being decided. Mix has offered to pay whatever the government asked to adjust and the government has promised to make up its mind this week.

- 1931:

Sharpshooters’ Offer for Clara Bow’s Time: With Broadway agents all pretty much in the dark regarding Clara Bow’s present standing with Paramount as a result of the Daisy De Voe trial, the red headed picture star is being deluged with wires from New York making all sorts of offers for her services. One agent wants Clara for a personal appearance tour of dance halls in the east. Most of the offers from New York, mainly from sharpshooters carefully avoid mentioning a guaranteed salary.

Clara Bow in 1931

William Wellman will direct ‘Public Enemy’ instead of Archie Mayo with Wellman’s ‘Night Nurse’ holding over until Barbara Stanwyck is available.

In the Coop: Carl Laemmle’s chicken ranch on the Universal lot, chickenless for the past seven months, is working again. Coops have been cleaned and are now being used to store old silents.

O’Brien-Taylor Wedding: Pat O’Brien, actor appearing in Howard Hughes screen production of ‘Front Page’, married Eloise Taylor, legit actress last Wednesday (January 20) in Hollywood. After the ceremony O’Brien went back to work postponing his honeymoon until the picture is completed.

The O'Briens

- 1932:

Gone Africa: Gary Cooper, in South Africa hunting big game, cabled his father here that he had shot a ‘super lion’.

Jeanette MacDonald Set: It’s pretty well set that Jeanette MacDonald will go to Metro on expiration of her present agreement with Paramount calling for her appearance in the next Maurice Chevalier picture. Meantime she is being considered for Metro’s ‘The Red Headed Woman’ on a loan, before going into the Chevalier picture and before going onto the Metro contract list.

**Jean Harlow ended up taking the role in ‘Red Headed Woman’ instead of MacDonald.

Capra Weds Jan 27: Frank Capra will marry Lucille Reyburn, Los Angeles girl, in New York this Thursday. The Capras plan a brief honeymoon in Cuba, after which they will leave for the coast.

‘Queen Kelly’ May Get US Release: First non-dialog drama to be released since the industry threw out silents may be ‘Queen Kelly’ with Gloria Swanson. Taken off the shelf after nearly three years, it has been placed into shape for distribution by United Artists. It carries a musical score and sound effects but no dialogue.

A scene from 'Queen Kelly'

- 1933:

Thelma Todd’s Smash-up: Following automobile smashup Sunday, Thelma Todd in Hollywood hospital with chest bone broken resulting in her withdrawal from ‘Niagara Falls’ at Universal.

Thelma Todd in early 1933

Garbo Contract Renewed: Greta Garbo will return to Metro, having signed a new contract with that company. Her first picture will be ‘Christina’, a political story of 17th century Sweden. It is yet undetermined whether the picture will be made here or in Sweden.

Pants All Oke for Dietrich: Paramount has officially reversed itself on Marlene Dietrich’s pants. Instead of playing down that the imported star prefers male garb in public at all times and putting a hard and fast ban on all publicity and photographs regarding her preference for it, studio has decided to make what capital it can of her predilection. Publicity department may flood the country with stills showing her bifurcates. Dietrich made quite a stir at the recent premier of ‘Sign of the Cross’ by attending in a male tuxedo suit and wearing a man’s soft black hat.

Maurice Chevalier, Marlene Dietrich and Gary Cooper at the premiere of
'Sign of the Cross' (1932)

- 1934:

Tracy-MGM Patch-up Deemed Not Likely: As Lee Tracy continues to run around loose, the belief mounts that he will return to Metro after ‘Viva Villa’ has been released and the possible press value of his Mexican escapade (for more information on the scandal go here) has asserted itself. Forgiveness, it is felt, will come then or eventually.

Paramount Shifts ‘Alice’ Suit From State to US Court: On application of Paramount, the suit to discontinue release of ‘Alice in Wonderland’ on grounds that rights to the story are controlled by a Samuel Krantrowich, has been taken out of the Supreme court and into Federal jurisdiction. Krantrowich is applying for an injunction against further exhibition of ‘Alice’ claiming it was made into a film in 1914 by William M. Young who illustrated it in animated form.

'Alice in Wonderland' released in 1933

Warner’s 1st Net Profit Since ’30: For the first time since 1930, Warner’s report a net operation profit of $105,752,860 for the 13 weeks ending Nov. 25, 1933. That’s around $5,000 more than was estimated for the quarter. The net operating loss for the corresponding period in 1932 was $1,746,761.95.

Everything you need to know about the goings-ons and gossip from this week in Precode Hollywood.

1929:

Wallie Reid Memorial – Mrs Hal Reid, mother of the late Wallace Reid, is in Hollywood endeavouring to raise $150,000 to provide means for the placement of a bay window in St John’s Cathedral, New York, as a memorial to her son.

Actor Wallace Reid during the height of his popularity in the silent era.

Alice White’s Double– Belle Mann, who doubled for Alice White in ‘Show Girl’ as the ghost songstress, has received a Victor recording contract as a result. The First National feature was synchronised by Victor in Camden and Miss Mann contributed the pseudo-vocalisation by the screen star.

Sike Doc on Job– Dr William M. Marstan psychologist recently engaged by Universal arrived at the studio. He is now making a mental analysis of his associates before taking over his duties as Universal’s director of public service, when he will attempt to psychoanalyse the business.

Joan Bennett Goes Bob – When Joan Bennett signed a contract with Sam Goldwyn to appear opposite Ronald Colman in “Bulldog Drummond”, no mention was made that she would be required to bob her hair for the part. When the young actress appeared at the studio and a few tests were made, the producer ordered her tresses trimmed to conform with the modern-day flapper. After much reluctance, the gal consented to the operation.

Ronald Colman and Joan Bennett from 'Bulldog Drummond'

Alma Rubens Serious– Alma Rubens, who ran rampant and stabbed Doctor Ed Meyers in Hollywood last week is confined to Rosemead Sanatorium. She is in a serious condition.

1930:

Real Heroic Dog– ‘Leo’, German police dog that played opposite ‘Rin Tin Tin’ in several pictures, died a hero here last week. It was asphyxiated by gas after warning the family of the danger. Dog was five years old.

Tattooing Film Favs– Tattooers are noticing this is a new era; that the modern gobs and soldiers don’t go for anchors, broken hearts and eagles. In an effort to bring back the popularity of tattooing, the permanent dye boys are figuring they must meet the public demand by giving ‘em screen mugs. For $10 any gob can get Clara Bow across his chest.

A woman with Gary Cooper tattooed on her back

Gloria Stuart congratulating a young man who had her face tattooed on his chest

Marches Sued– Fredric March and his wife Florence Eldridge are being sued for $52,000 by Harry Greenberg. Latter charges that the actress’ car crashed into him last December.

1931:

Nervy Girl Laughs off Bandit – Poking the muzzle of a revolver through the grating of the Binghamton, New York theatre ticket office, a bandit demanded of Chloris Evans, treasurer, “Come on, hand it all over”. Mrs Evans gave the stick-up artist a dirty look and coldly told him, “Go on shoot, if you want to”. After a moment’s hesitation, he turned and fled. So to did his companion who had been covering the doorman with a gun. Police failed to find any trace of either man. Go Chloris!

Machine Guns Out in New York – New York’s State Censor Board is frowning on things gunmanlike and racketeerish. It’s getting even tougher than Chicago’s pink specialists. In New York they’re beginning to edit out all machine-gun sequences even in comedy.

1932:

Doubling for Ma – Dickie Moore, kid player working in ‘Disorderly Conduct’ at Fox, was invited to lunch by Spencer Tracy. Having a youngest of his own, Tracy figured he knew what kids should eat so ordered a vegetable platter. Next three times Tracy invited the kid for lunch, the youngest always begged off. When cornered, Dickie admitted he had no other appointments but added: “I gotta eat spinach at home”.

Spencer Tracy and Dickie Moore in a scene from 'Disorderly Conduct'

Test English Girl– Paramount tested Diana Wynyard, British actress, last Wednesday (Jan 27). Actress came over here about two months ago to join ‘The Devil Passes’. If Par takes Miss Wynyard, it will have to wait until the play runs out.

Chicago Censors Halt ‘Morgue’– Possibility of ‘Murders of Rue Morgue’ not opening at the State Lake this Wednesday as scheduled since the censor board has rejected the picture entirely on excess horror grounds. Universal exchange is trying to induce the board to give the film another screening.

A scene from 'Murders of Rue Morgue' with Bela Lugosi

Marx Split Denial– Old rumour about a split between the four Marx Brothers popped up again and was printed in several places. Paramount through enough of the gossip to send out an official denial with Groucho doing the same.

1933:

Verree Teasdale Story Sad– Verree Teasdale came in from Hollywood last week to tell Judge Anderson her story. It was sad, said the judge, indicating he would grant the divorce she wanted from William O’Neal, the tenor. He deserted her in 1927.

Must Have Lip – After a two weeks search for a baby with a lip like Chevalier’s for ‘Bed Time Story’, Paramount finally had to get a dentist to make a trick mouthpiece so the youngest selected would resemble the actor.

'Bedtime Story' (1933)

No Good Women in History, says West– “Personally, I admire good women,” conceded Mae West in early 1933, “but you never hear about good women in history. The only good girl to make history was Betsy Ross, and she had to sew up a flag to do it. People are more curious about something not good. Did you ever notice how quickly they hop to talking about how bad you are and never mention you if you’re good? I catered to the masses in my stage plays. I built up a loyal public in the theatre and I’m going to keep faith with my public in pictures. There are some people who can get away with anything yet always come out on top. The worse they are, the better you like them. They happen to have something different that wins you no matter what they do. No, the wages of sin in all cases is not death.”

1934:

Ted Healy, who must have been a bit of a
fighter in 1934

Benny Weldon Suing Ted Healy – Ted Healy is made defendant in a $50,112 assault and battery charge filed in superior court by Francis Cushing (Benny) Weldon. Charge is that on November 23, Healy beat Weldon insensible and disabled him so severely he could not attend his biz for five weeks.

Fairbanks’ Tax Case Transferred– Internal Revenue has agreed to transference of its action against Douglas Fairbanks for return of certain income tax rebates to Federal courts in New York. Action was filed against Fairbanks asking for the return of $170,000 of around $600,000 rebated as excess tax on income.

Harlow Back– Jean Harlow, who has been under suspension for 10 weeks at Metro because she refused to appear for a wardrobe call at studio until her salary was tilted, has settled her differences with the company and was put back on the payroll. Miss Harlow wanted her salary boosted on the balance of her four year contract, with a jump from $1,500 a week to $5,000. A compromise was soon reached at $3,000 weekly.

Trying to Make ‘Bad’ Pic Look Good– Twentieth Century is making another attempt to get ‘Born to Be Bad’ off the shelf and released before the company shuts down in April. All execs and other have taken a hand in changing the story and negative to make it yell. The picture was completed four months ago but the film still can’t get Darryl Zanuck’s okay.

Loretta Young and Cary Grant in 'Born to be Bad'

With Precode films you can expect a little (sometimes a lot) almost-nudity. From suggestive silhouette shots to nude swimming scenes to copious views of undressing leading ladies, Precode directors always broke the boundaries. One technique often used to titillate the audience was bath scenes. Sometimes including undressing scenes and always including a nude actor, these images broke the boundaries of the The Motion Picture Production Code of 1930 or Hays Code which stated:

“1. Complete nudity is never permitted. This includes nudity in fact or in silhouette, or any lecherous or licentious notice thereof by other characters in the picture.

2. Undressing scenes should be avoided, and never used save where essential to plot.

3. Indecent or undue exposure is forbidden.”

These images would be completely banned in mid 1934. But, thanks to DVD and the internet, modern audiences can view and enjoy Precode films. Below I have included the best images of bathing scenes in films used, clearly, by the director to attract audiences rather than to advance the plot. Some of the images come directly from films whilst other were used to promote certain movies, actors or studios.

Claudette Colbert in 'Sign of the Cross' (1932)

James Cagney and Joan Blondell from 'Blonde Crazy' (1932)

Lilyan Tashman

Jean Harlow in 'Hold Your Man' (1933)

Dorothy Lee

Carole Lombard

Yola d'Avril takes a bath in 'Beauty and the Boss' (1932)

George Raft and Roscoe Karns from 'Night After Night' (1932)

Bebe Daniels from 'The Maltese Falcon' (1931)

Ruth Stevens from 'Hips Hips Hooray' (1934)

Leila Hyams

Joan Marsh

Nina Quartero

Adrienne Dore

Joan Blondell scrubbing up in 'Blonde Crazy' (1932)

Leila Karnelly from "The Cock-Eyed World" (1929)

Myrna Loy enjoying a bath in 'Barbarian' (1933)

Joyce Compton

Alice White in 'Sweethearts on Parade' (1930)

Everything you need to know about the goings-ons and gossip from this week in Precode Hollywood.

1929:

Sound Coquette Made - Having completed the sound version of Coquette, Mary Pickford has gone into retirement until director, Sam Taylor, can complete the script for the silent version.

Young Must Stand Trial - Noah Beery’s larceny charge against his representative, Felix Young, is assuming serious proportions. The judge stated that he would not allow the court to be used as a collection agency and that the charge must stand. Beery wanting to withdraw the charge, cannot change his mind at this date, it was intimated. Young was charged with selling Beery's services for two days for $2,500 and giving the actor but $1,000 was extradited from New York.

Greta Garbo Back - Great Garbo has settled all her difference with MGM and is reported arriving at the Culver City plant in March.

Gouda Damage Case - Characterising Jetta Goudal as a headache, but a marvellous actress, C.B. DeMille recited his experiences with the temperamental actress as a defendant in a suit brought by her for $101,000 for breach of contract. The actress asserted that DeMille abruptly terminated her five-year contract with three more years to go. Several other directors substantiated DeMille’s testimony that in several instances she refused to take direction and would cause considerable delays and loss of money due to her temperamental outbursts.

1930:

Young-Withers Won’t be Talked Out of Marriage - Grant Withers and Loretta Young, who eloped last week, have decided not to let the family talk them out of their romance or into an annulment. As the couple refuse to consent to nullification proceedings, the court is helpless in the matter.

Grant Withers and Loretta Young in 1930

Strange Skin Disease From War Uniforms - Mysterious skin infections attacked 23 members of an American legion doing extra work as French soldiers in All Quiet on the Western Front. Men were wearing French government uniforms used during the war. Doctors didn’t know whether some germs had lain dormant in the uniforms since the war or whether a particularly virulent chemical disinfectant may have been used on the uniforms. The afflicted reportedly suffered large skin peels and severe pain.

Mabel Normand’s Transfusions - Mabel Normand is in a serious condition due to tuberculosis. Blood transfusions are being made once a week.

Mabel Normand in 1927, aged only 35, following her diagnosis with tuberculosis

1931:

Arliss Won’t Pash - George Arliss’ “The Millionaire”, formerly titles “The Ruling Passion” probably explains by its former title why the director in one scene beseeched the dignified English actor:

“Please, Mr Arliss, a little more passion.”

In another sequence, the star objected to a swimming pool sequence with girls splashing about, stating he wasn’t making a Sennett comedy.

Evelyn Knapp and George Arliss in 'The Millionaire'

Kay Francis Grows Ill When Given Maid Role - At Paramount last week, Kay Francis, was assigned to a maid’s role in a feature. Miss Francis suddenly became ill and later produced a doctor’s certificate that she was unable to appear. Miss Francis has entered into an agreement with Warners following her Paramount term shortly expiring.

1932:

Beerys Adopt - Wallace and Rita Beery have filed papers for adoption of 16-month-old Carol Ann Priester, orphaned daughter of Mrs Beery’s aunt.

Wallace Beery and Carol Ann

Radio Trains Andre with Bible - When Gwili Andre completes her preliminary training for her picture role, she will be placed in a John Barrymore picture. Meantime, Gwili, is being coached by Irving Pichel who has her reading aloud daily from the Bible.

1933:

California Sun Melts Hitches - California’s liberal divorce laws of 1933 were just the right kind of meat for eastern couples who dive into Hollywood’s swimming pool as a two-act and come up far apart. Of the 102 marriage meltings in the past two years, 40% consisted of pairs who moved themselves westward since talkers began to blare. Hollywood gets ‘em, just as it splits the regular run of film couples, with five-sixths of the legal separations due to ‘That Hollywood Influence’. This was described as:

1) One of the parties becoming a success

2) Gossip ribbing and chattering of columnists

3) California’s liberal divorce laws

4) Propinquity of Nevada and Mexico

5) Picture grind, which leaves the non-working mate idle.

6) Clare of publicity to which every celeb marriage is subject.

Joan Crawford testifying in court for her divorce from Douglas Fairbanks Jr in 1933

Women’s Secret Society - Local branch of the 100% Americans, a secret National Woman’s organisation, formed last week in 1933. Trying to get petitions signed locally for national motion picture censorship.

Exploiting Employee’s Entrance - One house was all ready for Employee’s Entrance when it cam along. Will all have a special ticket booth in the form of a doorway lettered ‘Employees Only’ and will sell tickets at a 10% reduction.

An advertisement promoting 'Employee's Entrance'

1934:

Hays on Legs - Chiselling on the Hays edict concerning leg publicity stills current on at least two Hollywood lots. Magazine people looking for such material are told they cannot be supplied inasmuch as the ban is on. “However,” say the P.A.s, “there’s nothing said about pictures being taken by outside photogs, so if you want to send a cameraman we’ll supply the girls.

Joan Blondell and her famous legs

Gilbert Sues Metro - Contending that a contract entered into late last fall between John Gilbert and Metro is inequitable while it gives the studio an option on the actor’s services over a period of seven years, and also stipulates salary to be paid if and when using him in a production, or in a directorial capacity, Gilbert, has filed a new complaint for declaratory relief. Gilbert contends that there is nothing in the contract that stipulates Metro will utilise his services at any time during the contract period.

Warner Brothers fashion designer, Orr Kelly, took off for Paris this week for research on Napoleon for a picture of that title.

Nabe Mammas Cause Bow Pics Yank-Out - The first instance on record here of a nabe house yanking a picture before end of its run because of complaints from family trade to which it caters took place in Pittsburgh last week. The film was Clara Bow’s ‘Hoopla’, booked for a full week. At the end of three days it was pulled, not because business wasn’t satisfactory, but because no end of mothers had protested against sending their kids to see Bow.

Not appropriate for children - Clara Bow in 'Hoopla'

Everything you need to know about the goings-ons and gossip from this week in Precode Hollywood.

1929:

Lily Langtry Dead - Lady De Bathe, 77, professionally known as Lily Langtry died at Monte Carlo on February 12 of heart failure.

Hell’s Angels at 17 Reels - James Hall and Ben Lyon were recalled last week for flying inserts in Hell’s Angels taken at Caddo Field in Van Nuys. The production is now down to 17 reels, leaving but five to cut out.

Assumed Charms of 50 Show Girls Classified - An acute examination of the assumed charms of 50 leading Broadway showgirls reveals sad deficiencies. Despite propaganda, the publicised “beauties” do a tailspin upon analysis point by point. Of the 50 girls:

- seven are knock-kneed

- eight wear glasses to read

- 18 have astigmatism

- two are actually pigeon-toed

- nine have scars on their faces

- 16 have dyed hair

- only seven have a genuine rosy complexion

- 22 are undeniably pasty-faced

- 14 are unusually round shouldered

- 27 are either too fat or too thin

- 17 have oversized shoulders

- 19 are flat chested

- 35 own from one to 12 false teeth

- eight have one or more gold teeth

- only six are distinguished looking in evening clothes

- 29 are common appearing in street wraps

- 12 have extremely large mouths

- 15 have razor edge lips

- 28 have ungainly torsos

- 11 have exceptionally long arms

- seven have short arms

- 10 have very large necks

- 25 have naturally wavy hair and

- 19 have facial birth marks, freckle or moles

1930:

Dot Mackaill’s Loss - Dorothy Mackaill escaped serious injury when the Sunset Limited from San Francisco struck a gasoline line truck on February 10. She lost two trunks in the fire which destroyed part of the train.

Revising Bill for Federal Censorship - Warning of an impending fight to establish national censorship of pictures is given by the Federated Motion Picture council in an announcement that they are at work revising the Hudson bill for reintroduction into Congress. This measure will provide for a federal commission to regulate pictures subject matter and its treatment.

Campaign on Garbo has Coast Steamed Up - “Greta Garbo is the greatest living actress,” is the billing being given for that star for Anna Christie in 24 sheets plastered all over the town. Fox West Coast publicity department was behind the extravagant placarding that created comment. Meanwhile, Elsie Adair and Mable Lash, studio doubles for Greta Garbo, worked as a lobby plug for Anna at the Criterion. The girls appeared in a frame in the lobby dressed in the clothes worn by Garbo in the picture. The gag tied up sidewalk traffic during their appearance.

1931:

Radio Stars Dorothy Lee Despite Her Objections - Radio will star Dorothy Lee despite her objections. Studio offered a starring contract a month ago, which she turned down claiming she wasn’t ready for the big leap. Miss Lee was then assigned to the femme lead in Too Many Cooks opposite Bert Wheeler. After the completion of the picture she will be assigned to one with her name above it.

In anticipation of her first European vacation, Norma Shearer, Canadian by birth, is now a naturalised American citizen.

Brutal Censoring Burns Press and Fans - Pennsylvania censors are certainly getting tough these days. They butchered The Blue Angel so badly Paramount refused to release it there and Greta Garbo’s Inspiration was chopped to 60 minutes. The latest to get the axe is Nancy Carroll’s Stolen Heaven. The board refused to okay it in present form and it may have to be shelved entirely in this state, like Blue Angel.

1932:

Mickey McGuire Legalised - Judge Gates ruled Mickey McGuire (who became Mickey Rooney) had a right to use that cognomen as his legally changed name. Judge dissolved an injunction by Radio Darmour Productions and Fontaine Fox against the boy’s taking it.

Tarzan’s New Finis - Owing to audience reaction at the preview of Metro’s Tarzan, the picture is having a new ending supplied. In the original a monkey protecting the heroine was killed by a gorilla. At the tryout there was such evident disapproval of the incident that a new tag will be made of a happy ending for the monk. Figured the same reaction would obtain on general release.

Tom Mix to Wed - Tom Mix was married on February 15 to Mabel Hubbell, circus
aerialist, known as Mabel Ward. It is is third marriage. The bride was with the Sells-Floto circus of which Mix was also a headline member.

No Hooey Or Else - Hal Roach contracts with kids now bing them to study their lessons and regularly attend school classes arranged for them. It’s the first time in the history of children in pictures that playing hookey from school is made a breach of contract.

1933:

George Raft in Wrong - Paramount is ready to put George Raft under suspension upon his refusal to play a part in Case of Temple Drake. Jack La Rue starts instead today. Raft is insisting the company give him $2,500 a week or he will go to Europe. Now drawing $750 weekly. It’s understood a producer associated with Paramount told Raft to stand put on the demand and that the company with come through. The officials here are burned over it.

Marlene’s Pants Give LA Stores a Break - Department stores here are viking with one another in pushing sale of male attire for women or mannish femme outfits, and are tying up picture star names as added lure. Marlene Dietrich gets the biggest plug in the drive, with ‘Marlene’ trouser suits; ‘Marlene’ hats and mannish suits, and ‘Marlene’ severely tailored coast suits. Other femme outfits of the mannish type are labelled ‘Kay’, ‘Marian’, ‘Norma’, ‘Joan’ and ‘Helen’.

Can’t Can Cantway - Warners can’t get away from Maxine Cantway. Four years ago the studio removed her from the chorus ranks and gave her a contract, later dropping her. This week contracts were handed out to 12 of the 20 chorines in 42nd Street and among the names was Miss Cantway.

1934:

Hays Better - Leaving Queens of Angels hospital where he had been taking a rest cure for several days, Will Hays, left for the east on February 9. Accompanying him to New York was Mrs Hays, Mr and Mrs Harry Warner, Patterson Rothacker and George Northwick.

472 For Awards - Members of the Academy have 472 pictures to choose from in picking the winners of the awards, which will go respectively to the best male and female acting of the year, best writing, best directing and to the production company for the best picture. Ballots have been mailed calling for nominations of three names for each class. The final awards will be made at the Academy banquet March 16.

Astaire Due in April Despite Divorce Ban - Radio Pictures is in trouble with the Hays organisation over Gay Divorcee. It was intended to do the musical with Fred Astaire in his original role by Hays ruled it out, claiming the subject was not suitable picture material. Radio is arguing the matter, but also looking for another vehicle for Astaire. Whatever the result, Astaire closes with stage production Gay Divorcee in April and will present himself in Hollywood in June. It is practically set that Ginger Rogers will be his leading lady.

Everything you need to know about the goings-ons and gossip from this week in Precode Hollywood.

1929:

Lupe’s Song and Dance: Lupe Velez will sing and dance at the United Artists, Chicago, and the Riato, New York, in conjunction with Lady of the Pavements, the picture in which she is featured. New York engagement starts March 2 or 9.

Lupe Velez in Lady of the Pavements

Personal Pilot: Director, Clarence Brown, is the first of the picture contingent to own an aeroplane and have his own pilot. Brown has bought a four-passenger Beull closed plane and is using it for social engagements, thinking nothing of flying 300 miles for a weekend.

Big Wedding: They put it on when Ruth Roland married Ben Bard on February 14. The wedding was the most pretentious held in the film colony with practically everybody of any consequence invited. More than 1,000 guest witnessed the event.

Ruth Roland and Ben Bard

Coquette promotion: What looks like some high powered exploitation and publicity for Mary Pickford and Coquette, her forthcoming release, is her sudden outburst of social activity on the coast. For the past week Miss Pickford has been host to 25 visiting newspaper chatter writers who sponsored a like number of girls selected in various cities in a Coquette contest. Miss Pickford threw a dinner for the newspaper scribes and also sponsored a theatre party.

1930:

Dogs talking on the screen has been released: It is an achievement of months of patience as dialog was fitted to each dog and had to be made at the precise instant needed. This required weeks of weary waiting for the dogs to do the right thing at the right time. The title of the short is Hot Dog.

Two canine actors from Hot Dog (1930)

Picture ‘Don’ts’ For ’30: Will Hays put the halter around the necks of the members of the Association of Motion Picture Producers at their annual meeting on February 17. The members agreed to abide by his rules and regulations that will govern the industry in such a manner that censorship measures throughout the country will not be required and will possibly be abandoned. Producers will now have to submit to the association every picture they produce before the negative goes to final printing. If the picture doesn’t conform to the rules, the association with notify the producer and corrections must be made before the picture can be released.

Alice White is requesting a vacation after working in 22 pictures during the past three and a half years. She may have to wait as two new stories are in preparation for her.

Alice White

1931:

Nolan Charged: Mary Nolan was charged last week with petty theft in a warrant issued in Beverly Hills. Warrant was sworn by a film director who alleged that Miss Nolan stole a rug worth $300 from his furnished home which she had leased.

Mary Nolan

El Brendel was taken to hospital with an injured eye. He ducked too late on the set when a Spanish dancer was supposed to kick over his head.

Solo Click by Wheeler or Woolsey Would Kill Team: Whether Wheeler and Woolsey will be re-teamed by Radio again depends on the results from their solo trys. That seems to be the attitude of studio execs who have been trying to find the right medium for the pair.

Bert Wheeler and Robert Woolsey

Husband Swap: Showgirls Edna Hooper and Norma ‘Bebe’ Castillo would like to change husbands but there are a maze of legal technicalities which must first be straightened out. The husbands are equally anxious for the exchange and believe the matter can be smoothed over.

1932:

Judith Wood

Freaks Has Censor Trouble: City censors in Georgia forced Freaks from the Fox theatre screen on February 20 because of its gruesomeness. The theatre tried to score an injunction against the removal order but was unsuccessful.

Wood’s nose trouble: Judith Wood is in for a nose operation for the second time in two months. The second is to correct the first.

Edna Purviance’s Heart: Edna Purviance was stricken with a heart attack on February 20. At the Hollywood hospital it is stated her condition is slightly improved.

Moran’s Molars: Metro execs are reported to be protesting Polly Moran’s new set of store teeth. They claim they are too perfect and take away facial comedy value. So Moran went back to the dentist to get a not so perfect renovation. Apparently, her revamped nose some time ago was similarly protested on the grounds that she was making a funny face foolproof.

Polly Moran gets a secret from Marie Dressler

1933:

Two Accidents on Location: Columbia has encountered hard luck on making Murder of the Circus Queen, having two bad accidents. One was on February 17 when a man was thrown from his horse and his legs badly injured and another when another man suffered severe injuries to his back. Both are in hospital.

A scene from Murder of the Circus Queen aka The Circus Queen Murder (1933)

Mae’s Cuts for Paramount: Paramount is re-editing Mae West’s flicker She Done Him Wrong for Pennsylvania following first submission to state’s censors. After cuts necessary are made, the picture will again be shown to the scissor brigade with passage assured. Reports that Pennsylvania had banned the West picture entirely created some furore in Paramount.

She Done Him Wrong (1933)

Marie Dressler Needs Minor Operation: Marie Dressler, dissatisfied with the opinion of her local physicians as to her condition, is in New York to consult her doctor there. She was operated on yesterday, February 19 with the surgery not of a serious nature.

1934:

Dressing at Sea: Paramount’s We’re Not Dressing company is at Catalina Island on location for sea stuff. The unit comprises 80 people including Bing Crosby, Burns and Allen, Carole Lombard and Leon Errol.

The cast from We're Not Dressing (1934)

Screen Actors’ Guild Committee: Nominations for the many Screen Actors’ Guild committees were revived with 700 proxies on hand. For the 5-5 actor-producer committee were chosen - Robert Montgomery, Ralph Morgan, James Cagney, Kenneth Thomson, Richard Tucker, Chester Morris, Claude King, Mary Astor, Pat O’Brien, Ann Harding and Paul Muni.

Betty Boop Doll Case: Fleischer Studios producer of cartoons for Paramount release will be enriched by over $100,000 as a result of the decision just handed down by Judge Woolsey holding that a doll manufacturer had infringed Fleischer’s Betty Boop cartoon character. The figure is based on damages of $10 per doll. The suit was against Ralph Freundlich, who is alleged to have manufactured Betty Boop dolls without a licence.

The playful Betty Boop

Everything you need to know about the goings-ons and gossip from this week in Precode Hollywood.

1929:

Nazimova’s Talker - Indications are that Nazimova will return to the screen after an absence of five years. Eddie Small has her under contract and is understood to be preparing a talking picture which will star her. Word is it will be released through Columbia.

50 Baby Tests - Paramount made screen tests of 50 babies selected in the Los Angeles Express baby contest. Infants who show the best screen possibilities will be given one week’s work in pictures.

Lillian’s Tax - The government had an income tax claim of $54,311 against Lillian Gish based upon her two year contract. She quickly filed an appeal.

No Big Meals - Heavy meals and talking picture work don’t go well together. One director discovered that after lunch actors’ voices have changed considerably. In order to have the same tone, players must eat early in the morning or starve throughout working hours.

1930:

Profane Cowboys - Professional cowboys now migrating her for picture work are giving directors plenty of headaches by their habitual profanity. When told to ad lib in mob scenes the mike gets hot with a mixed conglomeration of cowboy vernacular. It would never pass the censor and scenes must be retaken.

Shooting - Actress Vera Gingell and Siguard Bjorne, musician, were shot and killed by the woman’s estranged husband, Augustus Gingell when he found them living together. Gingell was held for double murder.

Rambeau Suit Up - Retrial of the alienation of affection suit against actress Marjorie Rambeau will be sort this week in 1930. The original suit in which Mrs Mabel Manton sought to collect $100,000 from the actress for alleged stealing of William Manton’s affections resulted in jury disagreement. The action grows out of a raid made on Miss Rambeau’s apartment where Mr Manton, an actor, was found. The actress explained that Mr Manton was merely aiding her by the reading of a part.

1931:

Not Too Much Mother - “What do you mean, too much mother?” Katherine Roth cracked when she and Lillian arrived for the girl to do her personal appearance turn, referring to a story that Paramount dropped Lillian for that reason. “We get along splendidly, Lillian gives me anything I want. I’ll never try to advise her in love affairs again because she feels so badly over one boy to whom I objected and who died four weeks ago. But maybe she’ll take my advice on financial matters since she lost money on some stocks bought against my advice,” Mrs Roth said. Later Lillian said she and her mother were, “in perfect sympathy” and also denied the “too much mother” yarn.

Del Rio Given Second Chance- Sam Goldwyn thinks Dolores del Rio can be ‘made’ as a talker star regardless of how much a bad one was her Bad One(1930). He will feature her in a piece based on The Dove but vastly metamorphosed in its screen transition.

There’s Rain and Rain - Rain scene for a Pathe picture were postponed because it rained. The rain was the kind they get in California, where everything is bigger and better. Overhead pipes had been installed for the London dizzy kind and the director refused to take what nature supplied.

1932:

Screen Novice’s First - Gloria Stuart, screen novice, whom Universal signed after litigation with Paramount, goes to First National on loan for her first picture, Street of Women.

Operator’s Home Bombed - A bomb was thrown through the front window at the home of the operator at the Strand, which was wrecked by a similar explosion last December. Four members of his family, sleeping at the time, were injured but not seriously. The operator was employed by Keraostes Bros who have been rowing with the union over the size of staffs employed in the nabe houses.

Valentino’s Million Shrinks to $130,000 - Albert and Maria Guglieni, brother and sister of late Rudolph Valentino have petitioned the court for a partial distribution of his estate, which is still in litigation. The estate, which was once rated in excess of $1,000,000 has shrink to $130,000 and may be wiped out by income tax claims.

Rudolph's sister Maria and her husband Alberto

1933:

Paramount Abandons Sex - Paramount has abandoned the idea of producing Sex, the Mae West play. The studio had been considering it but decided that critics would dwell on the fact that the show was knocked off in New York. The matter had not been taken up with the Hays office but the studio figured that if the title was change it would go through.

Backyard Argument - There is an argument between Jack Warner and Sam Goldwyn over the latter’s statement that picture people in Hollywood are incompetent, extravagant and out of step with the times. From the way Warner talkers, it looks as if the boys will stick their tongues out at each other when they meet in New York this week.

Not a Bit Bashful - Warner publicity staff had a tough time with the crowd of crashers trying to muscle in on the press showing of the 42nd Streettrain at the Santa Fe depot. Finally one of the staff asked one of the crashers, “Who are you with?” Proudly he indicated the frail clinging to his arm. “I’m with my girl,” he said.

A scene from the short 42nd Street Special (1933) which featured the films promotional train

1934:

Dressler Burns Over Citizenship - Burned at the reports that her name had been included in the list of alien players bandied about during a Congressional hearing, Marie Dressler strapped her six guns on and went into action. In answer Dressler remarked, “I have resided in the US ever since I came from Canada 55-years-ago. I married an American 35-years-ago and that gave me citizenship.” Her final broadside was to the effect that if the matter was brought up again she might “run down to Washington and tell ‘em a few things, too”.

Nudes for Hays - Irony has planted a group of plastic nudes just outside the executive office of Hays’ quarters in the Louis B. Mayer building in Hollywood. Prominence of the plaques is being commented on especially in view of the Hays censorial stress, heavy at this time.

Poor Gilbert - Metro is chastising John Gilbert again. The Queen Christine trailers mention all the feature male support but Gilbert.

Trainer Nipped - An animal trainer was injured seriously when attacked by a bear on the Mack Sennett lot. Had brought the animal from a circus for a Clyde Beatty pic.

Everything you need to know about the goings-ons and gossip from this week in Precode Hollywood.

1929:

The Codys still ill - Word received as to Lew Cody’s condition at the Warwick Hotel, New York states he is still ill with no visitors allowed. Mrs Cody (Mabel Normand) was stricken with pneumonia five weeks ago and has not yet fully recovered.

Healthy, Lew Cody and Mabel Normand

Not a “film story” but I couldn’t pass up including this news article about a femme mayoral candidate:

Advocates Passports For Married Couples at Night: Florence Gravdahl, candidate for mayor at Minneapolis has announced as part of a new platform a modified curfew law for married people by which husbands and wives will be required to carry matrimonial passports when away from home at night. She said traffic police will be directed to investigate automobiles containing men and women and to arrest on disorderly charges the occupants of such machines who do not produce marriage certificates, showing they are man and wife, or, in lieu provide a satisfactory explanation of their presence together. The same procedure would be carried out in night clubs and hotels. A recent newspaper editorial suggests couples discovered out after sundown could be sent to Mrs Gravdahl for “a good talking to-or something”.

Navarro on Discs - Ramon Novarro can really sing, disclosing this new talent in The Pagan with the star warbling The Pagan Love Song, theme number. His singing so impressed Victor it has signed Navarro for recording purposes.

Ramon Novarro and Dorothy Janis in The Pagan

1930:

Alice White’s Wedding - Alice White left Hollywood Saturday for Chicago with it reported that upon her arrival there she will marry Sid Bartlett. The latter has been acting as her personal representative for the past six months.

Sid Bartlett and Alce White

Meanwhile, another loved-up couple announced their engagement in this week 1930. Louis B. Mayer’s daughter Irene Mayer announced she would be marrying David Selznick.

Barrymore Baby - Little Mr or Miss Stork due in the home of the John Barrymores around March 15. (the couple would go on to have Dolores Ethel Mae "DeeDee" Barrymore who FYI is the aunty of Drew Barrymore).

The Barrymores and DeeDee

1931:

An early model of a television, circa 1920s

Television 3 Years Away - Show business needs not to be concerned about television for at least another three years. If it comes out in practical fashion then it will be a scientific miracle. This comes from Radio officials who say until television can be simplified, costs can be reduced and equipment reduced in bulk, there is little chance of air or wire pictures ever reaching the home of the average public institution.

Mary Nolan in Mae’s Show - Mary Nolan, who has come to New York to play at the Palace is going into Mae West’s new show Diamond Lil’s Daughter after the vaudeville date. She will be co-stared with West.

West-East Tests - While Helen Hayes was in Hollywood for two or three months, she had several screen tests. No good was the result. Back to New York again for Helen. (Hayes would win the Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance in Sin of Madelon Claudet released in October that year. Go Helen!)

Stage and screen star, Helen Hayes

1932:

Mae Clarke’s Breakdown - Mae Clarke is in a Hollywood hospital trying to defeat a breakdown. Recalled from Palm Springs where she was resting to make retakes for Night Club, Clarke was immediately rushed to hospital after finishing before the camera. March 6 her malady developed so rapidly she was removed to a sanatarium and will remain there indefinitely.

Mae Clarke

William Holden Dies - Don’t be alarmed, it is not the William Holden of Sunset Boulevard fame but a character actor who appeared in around 20 films including Dance, Fools, Dance and Holiday. He died on March 2, aged 57, following a heart attack. He had been in bad health for the past year due to an automobile accident. He was survived by his widow, Louise Holden, and daughter, Thelma Maclachlan.

William Holden on the left with Gloria Swanson from The Trespasser (1929)

1933:

Poison Tragedy Points Censors to Pix - Stricter film censorship is on the cards in Massachusetts following the strange death of a fire captain. William Costello was found dead last week from cyanide poisoning. It appeared to be suicide but the possibility of murder is being considered. The film Payment Deferred, recently exhibited in the area, showed how cyanide can be purchased and administered without chances of outward detection. Costello’s wife admits to purchasing cyanide which she used for cleaning.

Charles Laughton in Payment Deferred

And So to Bed - The day after Ruth Chatterton broke two fingers when she jammed her hand in an auto door, she appeared at Warners for a scene in Lily Turner calling her to do a cootch dance. Execs figured that she couldn’t do justice to the wriggling due to the pain from her injuries so she was put to bed for the hospital sequence in which she is supposed to have a child.

Gaynor Divorce Suit - From authentic reports, Janet Gaynor, will file suit for divorce on March 7 against Lydel Peck, Fox producer.

Janet and Lydel during happier times

1934:

Princess Sues - Metro lost the decision in the libel suit filed here against the company by Princess Irina on Rasputin and the Empress. Princess was awarded 25,000 pounds or a bit over $125,000. She is the daughter of Grand Duke Alexander and the wife of Prince Youssopoff, who self-admittedly - among others - killed Rasputin. She sued because she claims the film, in one sequence, libeled her.

Princess Irina

Stanwyck Talent - One of the dramatic scenes in Gambling Lady which was written in by Barbara Stanwyck, featured in the picture. The actress’s contribution is the scene where she separates from Joel McCrea toward the end of the story.

Tarzan Not So Hot with Weissmuller - You have Johnny Weissmuller’s word for it - he doesn’t like being that super-man, Tarzan. In fact, he’s pretty tired of picture-making. ‘Gee,’ confided Johnny, ‘when I signed up for pictures I figured I was going to get rich - make money in a bigger way than a professional champion swimmer could. But now I know how wrong I was. Sure, I make more but I spend more too. I’m a swimmer not an actor.”

Johnny Weissmuller aka Tarzan

Everything you need to know about the goings-ons and gossip from this week in Precode Hollywood.

1929:

Booth for Trader: Final section of Edwina Booth to play the lead in Trader Horn was made after many weeks of search for a lead who had to meet many rigid requirements. Foremost of these was the willingness to undergo the hardships of 28 weeks in Africa. Another was that of natural long blonde hair. Heat prevailing at this time in Africa would not permit the use of wigs and or a staff hairdresser.

Providence Protests: The Catholic population in Providence was up in arms over the religious ritual in The Redeeming Sin (1929) which played last week. The row started over a dialogue scene between Lionel Barrymore and Dolores Costello in which Barrymore, as a French Catholic priest, recites the Lord’s prayer with the Protestant ending. Local newspapers were flooded with complaints. The ruckus was started too late to have any effect on businesses but it’s doubtful if the feature will be booked for a second run.

Phipps Suing Parents: Sally Phipps, 17, has filled suit asking to have a guardian appointed. Miss Phipps alleges her mother and stepfather have misused the money she earned and that her stepfather mistreated and slandered her, injuring her position at the Fox studio. She asks that her attorney be made guardian of her estate.

1930:

German Girl ‘Discovered’: Marlene Dietrich, who plays in Josef von Sternberg’s The Blue Angel, has been engaged by Paramount for America. Sternberg reportedly found her a very original type, full of European sex appeal. She is sailing for New York on April 2.

Wealthy Actor Disobeys MGM: Charles Bickford, who owns several gas stations, whaling boats, markets and what not in Hollywood, and doesn’t have to worry about his career as an actor, is causing some irritation to MGM because of his stubborn refusal to work nights on The Sea Bat. When they pointed out that his contract called for such work, Bickford offered to buy back his contract for $100,000. MGM said there was no chance of selling the contract and letting him go elsewhere.

Mayor Bans Film: Party Girl, which is supposed to show what happens to young girls who go out with merchants, has been banned from Somerville by Mayor John Murphy. He bids fair to establish a ‘banning’ rep for himself. This is the second time he has exercised his censoring power.

1931:

No More Silents: Reaction from the Chaplin silent City Lights in the US and abroad so far is that the silents are thoroughly through. Expectation was prior to the films release that it might bring about a revival of the silent film. That is more remote now with the Chaplin films reaction.

Nearly Loses Sight: Henrietta Nichols, Hal Roach’s sister-in-law, narrowly escaped losing her sight when a prop man cut a golf ball and acid from the centre squirted onto her face.

Montana Moon Makes Crawford: Exactly how or what made Joan Crawford in talkers seems immaterial with the large role played by Montana Moon (1930). A pretty bad picture and Miss Crawford couldn’t rise above it. The studio noticed the badness of the picture but noticed Miss Crawford wasn’t that bad. One exec called a conference with the result either Miss Crawford was to be given proper stories or given the air. The film proves what a little personal attention by the proper authority in a studio can do when the talent or personality is there.

1932:

Red-Headed Bluebird: Title role in Red-Headed Woman must now be able to sing, making it tougher than ever to find the right gal. (The role of course went to Jean Harlow and thankfully wasn’t a singing role.)

Wardrobe Thieves: Ancient petty larceny stunt being revived in which thieves call at an actor’s home, represent themselves as from the studio, and ask for part or all of his wardrobe. Phoney credentials from dry cleaners is another variation, thieves making away with garments.

Bit Player’s Break: With only a small bit in Sky Devils to his screen credit, Randolph Scott has been signed by Paramount for a series of westerns. First film to be made on the James ranch in Montana will be Lone Cowboy by Will James, author-cowboy, who owned the ranch. Paramount purchased the first story and has options on seven more James’ books. (FYI Scott never actually appeared in the film Lone Cowboy (1933) which was taken by Jackie Cooper. Scott, however, appeared in several western films written by Zane Grey).

Rejuvenation: A producer reading a script came across the word ‘slut’ used in describing a character. ‘I don’t care for that word’, he said, addressing the writer. ‘Change it to waif.’

1933:

Wellman Out $30,000: Marjorie Wellman made a $30,000 property settlement with William Wellman and immediately afterward filed suit for divorce. Ground was the usual mental cruelty.

Chevalier Perturbed: Maurice Chevalier is worried. He’s becoming so Americanised that he is losing his French accent, which is his greatest asset. It has reached a point where he now has to put the accent on.

Constance Has Own Ideas on Renting Clothes: The RKO studio crowd was burned at the conduct of Constance Bennett in refusing wardrobe made for her for Our Betters. They made a dress which cost $600 which she refused to wear. Another cost $700. Finally, she appeared on set in a dress of her own, which studio people said was not as expensive as those made and charged the studio a rental of $100 for its use. On a previous picture studio people claim she insisted on wearing her own ermine coat which she said cost $20,000 and demanded $1,000 rental. Studio people are reported to have checked this and found the coat was appraised at $3,800.

Bennett Marriage: Musician, Charles Bennett, filed a declaratory relief action in LA asking that his marriage to Boots (Mallory) Bennett be declared valid, following the actresses asserted attempt to get a Mexican divorce. Legality of their marriage was questioned because of the actress being only 26 at the time of the ceremony.

1934:

Guarding Mae: With Mae West still receiving threat letters, Paramount had considerable difficulty last week in getting Miss West to attend rehearsals. Finally Emanuel Cohen agreed to seal up the stage where It Ain’t No Sin is rehearsing, with cops guarding all exits and entrances. It was even necessary for the director and producer of the picture to get the okay from Cohen before the cops would pass them.

Napoleon Off: Warners has shelved Napoleon in which Edward Robinson was meant to have starred, for this year. Likely that a new player will be in the name part when it finally is made. Studio has been trying to talk Robinson out of the assignment for three months. (Napoloen would have been a great role for Robinson no matter what Warners said).

Fight Raft Suit: George Raft isn’t going to collect damages for the theft and wrecking of his auto on New Year’s Day without a legal battle with insurance and indemnity companies. A demurrer to Raft’s action has been entered by the defendants. In his original complaint, Raft charged that the defendants disclaimed liability, asserting that his policy covered collision only.

Trader Horn (1931) was starlet, Edwina Booth’s big break and first credited role.

As Nina Trent, the White Goddess, Booth not only had the opportunity to be the female lead in the picture but be a part of one of the first ever location shoots in Africa. Her long, natural blonde hair and inexperience made her a perfect choice for director W.S. Van Dyke who wanted a low maintenance actress. When the film was released in May 1931 it showed a radiant, youthful Booth elegantly wondering through the picture in scant jungle attire.

But in reality, the making of the film ruin Booth’s health making her sickly, gaunt and, at some parts, close to death. She contracted malaria and dysentery during the filming, almost fractured her skull after falling from a tree and suffered sunstroke. Her rough clothing made of monkey fur chaffed her skin and cuts from trees and grass made her body even more fragile. When she returned to Hollywood following the shoot, she was a changed woman. Her new husband, Anthony Shuck, annulled their union soon after and left her to the care of her family. Following the release of the film, she sued MGM for $1 million to compensate her for her illnesses. She claimed the company didn’t provide her with adequate clothing to withstand the harsh African environment. Apparently, she received a settlement of only $35,000. She was reportedly confined to bed for the next five years only completing four more films before retiring in 1935 aged only 31.

Everything you need to know about the goings-ons and gossip from this week in Precode Hollywood.

1929:

Increasing Colour Work: Indicating the increasing use of colour at the studios, Technicolour has 12 camera crews and equipment, each comprising three men and camera, all busy.

A still from 'On With the Show!' (1929)

Richest Actor List: David Warfield is now the world’s richest actor. His recent sale of his Loew stock holdings elevated him to wealth between $10 million and $12 million. Running second is Eddie Cantor with from $5 to $6 million and third is Al Jolson with between $3 and $4 million. Number four is George M. Cohan, $3 million. Of the picture actors, the list is led by Marion Davies with at least $5 million. She is closely followed by Douglas Fairbanks, wife Mary Pickford, and Charlie Chaplin. Also in the $3 million group is Tom Mix, Norma Talmadge and Ruth Roland. Colleen Moore and Bebe Daniels go in the $2 million class.

Actress Entitled to Funds: Jetta Goudal’s temperament was no valid reason for the abrogation of her contract by Pathe, according to the ruling handed down by the Supreme Court. Court ruled that disobedience of an artist could not properly be treated the same as the disobedience of a menial. She was awarded $31,000.

1930:

Swedish Girl Swept into Ocean: Ernest Rolf, star of Rof’s Revue (Stockholm) and his leading lady, Tutta Benstzer, are here to do an act in the Scandinavian version of Paramount on Parade. It is the intention of the studio to bring other foreign players to Hollywood to treat the film in other languages. Miss Benstzer reached here via the Canal after an experience in the Atlantic that exceeds anything her p.a. could imagine. In a storm, the actress was swept of the deck into the ocean, but as the crew was then taking the log she was able to swim to the sounding rope and hold on. Losing her hold on the rope, she reached a life buoy thrown to her. Efforts to launch a lifeboat were unsuccessful until 30 tons of oil were dumped overboard to calm the sea. She drifted three miles before finally picked up.

Smelly Talkers May Yet Come Through: Picture have sound and colour now they’re going to have smell too. John Leavell has a patient on the idea.

Kidding Prince’s Suit Make Fun Business: trial of the suit of Prince Danilo of Montenegro against MGM, in which he charges certain scenes in The Merry Widow film are damaging to him, has developed a situation for a stage farce. The Prince’s lawyer is compelled to uphold the tradition of royalty and privileges of the throne. MGM’s attorney is required by the exigencies of the case to deride and ridicule royalty and all consideration of social caste that go with it. Case was adjourned again.

'The Merry Widow' (1925)

1931:

Stockingless Girls in Dispute: The RKO secret censorship department is commencing to send in reports from various cities against women on RKO stages going without stockings. They claim the practice is objectionable.

Ex-Prop’s Flash Fades: Reported Fox will let its option slide on John Wayne, the former prop boy Raoul Walsh picked out for the lead in The Big Trail, when his year winds up next month. Studio feels Wayne hasn’t sufficient b.o., judging from his only other pictures. Wayne, suspecting the situation is said to be dickering elsewhere.

John Wayne in 'The Big Trail'

Whether Chaplin is Jew Causes Cancelled Visit: Another of those East European religious quarrels that has in the past cost many lives has unknowingly been kindled by Charles Chaplin. All of Budapest is in a turmoil and as a result of the argument Chaplin had to cancel his visit. Trouble started when a Jewish paper in Budapest wrote a highly laudatory article on the comedian, claiming him as a Jew and representative of the fine things Jews have accomplished. Immediately, the anti-Somite press, high in the majority, bit back with long articles abusing Chaplin. Although no rioting, the situation looked highly serious until Chaplin made his move by not coming here.

Pickford Injured: Jack Pickford was badly injured when his automobile driven by his chauffeur struck a storm drain at an intersection while Pickford was asleep in the back. Both men were thrown from the car a moment before it crashed into a row of palm trees and was demolished. Pickford was bruised but not broken. The chauffer sustained broken ribs and other injuries. It was believed the car was travelling at high speeds.

Jack Pickford

1932:

Wet and Colder: Following the ceremony at the Joan Bennett-Gene Markey wedding last week newspaper people, toasting the bride, commented on the vast difference in the cordiality displayed there in comparison to the Constance Bennett-Marquis de la Falaise nuptials. As they were talking, a publicity man heard the click of a camera. Rushing over to the cameraman, he pleaded: “You didn’t take a picture of Joan Bennett with a glass of wine in here hand, did you?” “Nope,” said the cameraman, who had waited out in the cold at the previous wedding, “it was Constance.”

Joan and Constance Bennett

More Crank Star Threats: Picture players and exec names are receiving a flock of threatening letters from weak-minded persons driven to financial desperations. Writers are demanding financial help which if not forthcoming will bring dire results to picture names. No one expects anything to come of the threats, but they are proving an annoyance to the picture people.

Public Fed Up on First Nite Gawking: Opening of Wet Parade at Grauman’s Chinese saw the slimmest crowd of sidewalk fans seen at any premiere in years. Formerly, openings necessitated the issuing of police passes in order to get anywhere near the theatre. The latest opening had plenty of elbow room for everyone. Drop in curiosity seekers has been noticed at other openings, but it was figured that the usual opening would attract a mob who never miss a chance to lamp the stars.

1933:

Gummo Marx’s Dress Biz All Gummed Up: Milton ‘Gummo’ Marx, who quit the Marx Brothers act several years ago to go into the dress manufacturing business, has resorted to bankruptcy as the way out. Petition he filed tabulated his liabilities at $105,868 and assets none. His brother Chico is among the creditors for $29,000.

Harpo, Zeppo, Chico, Groucho and Gummo Marx

Mickey Mouse Honoured: Havana National Academy of Arts and Letters has awarded a special honour diploma to Walt Disney for his creation of the Mickey Mouse and Silly Symphony cartoons.

West, ‘Miss 1893’ Rides in a Hack: For the benefit of the newsreels and local press, Mae West climbed into her 1893 glad rags, hopped aboard a surrey and was driven behind two nags and a coachman to the Century of Progress Exposition. This occurred in time to electrify the pious portion of the populace on their way to Sunday services. The stunt of having Miss 1893 visit the modernistic 1933 World’s Fair was deemed a natural for everybody concerned.

Sidney Balks: After billing Sylvia Sidney and George Raft over the week end, for a joint personal appearance, Paramount New York had to take the advance stuff down when Miss Sidney balked at the terms and cancelled. She wanted $4,000 instead of the offered $3,000. It looks like Raft will do the job solo.

1934:

Colbert No Like Liquor Ad: Attorneys for Claudette Colbert are preparing to sue distributor of Scotch whisky for using a photography of the player in liquor advertising in Detroit papers. Still was from the picture It Happened One Night and shows the player holding a glass aloft. Text of the ad reads, ‘Claudette Colbert gives a toast to our Scotch whisky.’ It was previously reported the still was used as part of an exploitation campaign for the picture. Colbert claims she gave no permission for its use and has been placed in the wrong light by the whisky merchants.

Borzages Better: Condition of Frank Borzage’s wife, Wynne, injured in an auto accident on March15 which resulted in the death of Frank’s father, Louis Borzage, was reported improved at the Hollywood hospital. The doctor said Lew Borzage, Frank’s brother, would probably not lose one eye and the serious injuries to Wynn’s leg would not necessitate amputation. Shocked by the incident, Frank continued to direct his production of Little Man What Now?Without interruption. Carl Laemmle expected him to suspend work at least until after the funeral, but the director felt this would entail too much loss to the studio. Production was to be halted only for the burial rites.

Frank and Wynne Borzage, 1933.

Everything you need to know about the goings-ons and gossip from this week in Precode Hollywood.

1929:

Court Limb Exhib in Masseuse Case: Mae Murray will have to shell out $2,000 just because Alice White has pretty legs. No sooner had Miss White exhibited her undraped extremities to the judge and courtroom, than the jurist handed down a decision awarding Sylvia Ulbach, masseuse, judgement against Miss Murray. Masseuse sued the actress after Miss Murray discharged her “because she had called Miss Murray’s husband a bum”. Miss Murray declared her blue-blooded husband was a gentlemen and denied ever discharging her and borrowing money from Ulbach. The masseuse brought Miss White into court as a living example of her art. The object of the testimony was to show in court that Miss Ulbach had done wonders for her legs.

Doug Fairbanks going in for aeronautics. Now figuring on building a landing field at Pickfair.

Joan Crawford threw a confidential birthday party with only the immediate family as guests.

Director Jack Conway, left, celebrates Joan's birthday on the set of 1929's 'Our Dancing Daughters'

Sounds Piquant: With bathing season getting started along the California beaches, annual police censorship is on. At one beach, Mary Wilson (23), was first to run afoul of a beach cooper. She was picked up on a charge of wearing an ‘immodest’ costume, which consisted of a tight-fitting suit of extreme cut, backless to a point below the waistline and with portions of the front and sides cut out.

1930:

Handling Ben-Hur: In re-making Ben-Hur, Metro will retain all the spectacular stuff as is, merely synchronizing with sound. Song dialog sequences will be entirely new. One of the original principals, Richard Currier, is now dead, a complication. Metro also has to arrange to get the dialog rights for the old play.

Ramon Novarro in the 1925 version of Ben Hur

Warner Oland can’t play golf. He let his fingernails grow for Fu Machu.

Penny Rollers Go Ga-Ga for Wild Beast Revivals: Success of Ingagi, African wild animal picture on its initial showing at San Diego, has sent a flock of promoters on the hustle for any sort of wild animal films. Every film library in town is being canvassed by the promoters in an attempt to get something which sound can be dubbed into. One owner of a six reel animal picture which was made in India in 1924 was offered $10,000 for the negative.

A scene from the popular film, Ingagi

1931:

June MacCloy’s Home Life, As Per Husband: June MacCloy was made defendant in a suit for divorce filed by Wilbur Guethlein, traveling rep for RKO. She is charged with neglect and cruelty, the husband alleging that she refused to live with him, informing him that she preferred her freedom. Also accused of having an ungovernable temper. They were married in 1929.

June MacCloy sitting on Groucho Marx's lap

Baby Born to Baclanova: Olga Baclanova off the screen for several months for motherhood purposes is expected to go back with a Metro contract.

Davies Sore Over Claire’s Role: Marion Davies is raising ructions, claiming she was promised her the role in Greeks Had a Word For It but that Samuel Goldwyn announces Ina Claire for the play. Goldwyn denies she was ever offered the role.

Ina Claire as she appeared in Greeks Had a Word For It

Ames’ Test: Samuel Goldwyn is testing Adrienne Ames, New York society girl. She has never been on the stage. The potential actress’ husband is Stephen Ames, wealthy Wall Street broker.

1932:

Klan Won’t Let Warner’s Film Nude ‘White Trash’: Rewrites on several sequences in Cabin in the Cotton has been made necessary through influence of the Ku Klux Klan. Company dispatched a camera crew and assistant director to Mississippi to photograph women of a ‘white trash’ section bathing nude in a river. Idea was okay with the women but when the picture company started to grind on the scene the hooded members showed up and ordered the crew to pack up and scram.

Girls Tele Worry is Blondes Out: A television expert, Harry Lubcke, can look even further than ‘just around the corner’. It is bad news for the blondes but jake for the brunettes and red heads. His expert opinion is that inasmuch as television photography must be made before white backgrounds, it will be necessary to have dark objects for distinctive filming. Blonde gals of the future who dye their hair to get work with still have issues he says. Because blondes usually have blue eyes and these will be nix also before the white background.

Mrs von Sternberg sues Dietrich Again: Mrs Riza von Sternberg’s suit against Marlene Dietrich for libel and alienation of affections were reopened by Mrs von Sternberg, who claims Paramount didn’t live up to certain terms of the agreement to cancel suit. Dallies carried the story that the suit had been dismissed when a Budapest newspaperman admitted an article he had written quoting Miss Dietrich on the case had been pulled out of thin air. He wrote a retraction. Agreement was that three letters by the two women and the newspaperman be printed in the newspapers of 10 US cities and Berlin and Vienna. But editors used the letters only in part in their news stories. Paramount’s legal department must now buy advertising space to have the three missives printed in full.

Von Sternberg and his muse, Marlene Dietrich

1933:

Choosy: George Bernard Shaw, who was on display to the picture people at the Hearst Ranch in San Simeon last Friday, March 24, went under the condition that he would not have to be photographed with picture personalities. Newsreel camera men and photographers who figured they would have an exclusive on Shaw, returned immediately after the condition was made.

Charlie Chaplin, Marion Davies and George Bernard Shaw at San Simeon

Arliss’ Retirement?: George Arliss is reported retiring from the screen and returning to England. On completion of Voltaire his contract with Warners is up. No deal to renew has been started.

Accident Saves Bette from being Just Another Good Girl: There is nothing more deadly, Bette Davis has decided than being a nice girl too long. That’s the way she started, and if it were not for the lucky break she got in Cabin in the Cotton– the opportunity to do a strip – she might still be playing somebody’s daughter or somebody’s sister, and languishing honoured and unstarred. “Spice in pictures has its place,” says Miss Davis. “That’s the thing that impresses execs and people. Unless the execs think you have sex appeal, you’ll never get a part that the people will remember. Be sweet and demure all you like and see how far you get. Just another blonde indistinguishable from all the rest. Stay good too long and nobody will ever believe you can be anything else. Go torrid, in a naïve, subtle way, of course, and people will pay some attention to you. Prove you have sex appeal and you give the people something that interests them.”

1934:

Guard Crosby Baby: Fearing kidnapping of their baby boy, two armed guards have been stationed at Bing Crosby’s home at Toluca Lake for a week. Guards went on when a policeman reported that he had heard a chap talking in a telephone booth about ‘the Crosby baby’.

Bing Crosby, wife Dixie Lee and Gary Crosby (born 1933)

Madison Mystery: Eric Madison, former accountant in Warner’s studio restaurant at Burbank, was found dead in his apartment on March 25 with six bullet wounds in his body. Police are searching for his wife, Nellie. She had disappeared from their home about 12 hours before the body was discovered.

Elysia Okayed in Chicago by Court Ruling: After six months of court squabbles the nudie, Elysia, got through on a legal order and goes into the loop Majestic for a run. Though Aaron Jones has the house the Lehman estate had promised that if the nudie picture got through the censorship before May 1 they could have the house for the exhibition. However, the picture must be out by May 1.

Press Asked to Omit Funeral Locations: In future it is likely that the New York press will be asked to refrain from printing the location of services to be held for deceased screen celebrities. Plan follows the exhibition by the public for the late Lilyan Tashman. The morbid curiosity of the crowd almost led to fights between those riding in the funeral cortege and the sidewalk gawkers who climbed on the running boards and opened doors seeking autographs. At the burial ground, women plucked flowers from the casket and almost fell in the grave in the rush. Services for Miss Tashman were held on March 23 at the Universal Chapel.

Lilyan Tashman, she died too soon

Everything you need to know about the goings-ons and gossip from this week in Precode Hollywood.

1929:

Parsons’ Chatter Causes Carroll Annoyance: Clipping from the syndicated chatter column of Louella Parsons brought about issuance of a subpoena and embarrassment for Nancy Carroll. Myrtle Sisson, prosecuting a wage claim for her son, claimed Miss Carroll owned a confectionary store and had discharged her son without paying back salary. Miss Carroll has said that she is not connected with the store other than through her husband, Jack Kirkland, who owned an inactive interest. When Mrs Sisson was called to give evidence, she flashed a clipping from the chatter writer’s column which listed Miss Carroll as store owned. The case was dismissed.

Jack Kirkland and Nancy Carroll

Another Hollywood Gag: Youthful screen actor playing up to feminine lead - “Maybe I can’t kiss you like Novarro, or hug you like Gilbert, but I can bite you like Rin-Tin-Tin.”

Jean Arthur’s car impounded by police for failure to procure 1929 licence plates, despite protests by her mother that actress was working day and night and did not have time to procure new ones.

A young Jean Arthur

1930:

Scarface Al as Actor: It is seriously stated by First National an offer to ‘Scarface Al’ Capone, Chicago beer baron, to appear in Widow From Chicago, Alice White’s next picture, has been made. Figure it’s good publicity.

The almost picture star, Al Capone

WAMPAS Names Turned Down: WAMPAS’ intention to elect 13 Baby Stars again this year was over-ruled after candidates for nomination had been selected. Claim made is that list was not representative and that many of the baby stars were already too well established. Those mentioned include: Marjorie White, Fifi Dorsay, Mona Maris, Dixie Lee, Maureen O’Sullivan, Marguerite Churchill, Marion Schilling, Kay Francis, Lillian Roth, Claudia Dell, Lottie Loder, Dorothy Jordan, Raquel Torres, Una Merkel, Kathryn Crawford, Bernice Claire, June Clyde, Phyllis Crane, Jean Harlow, Pert Kelton, Lenore Landry and Marion Byron. Election is off. No WAMPAS for 1930!

Miss Shearer off of Screen?: Norma Shearer, one of the ranking stars of MGM for several years is out. Her contract is not being renewed and there are no further options. Her contract which has just expired was dated March 1925. Whether Miss Shearer is retiring from the screen to settle down to home life is not known inside MGM circles, although that is the assumption.

Irving Thalberg and his wife Norma Shearer

Bennett Makes Ex Give Up: Joan Bennett got the local court’s okay on her suit for $50 per month support for their child from ex-husband J.M. Fox, now married again to a Seattle woman. Joan avowed she did not need the coin but battled for principle that father should pay.

1931:

A promo for The Royal Bed aka
Queen's Husbands

Sex Angle Buried with Title Change: Effort to play down sex angle and play up the comedy resulted in selling Royal Bed in Oregon as Queen’s Husbands. Latter is the original title of the book. The new title is thought to be better known and also to admit bright comedy appeal and exploitation. Royal Bed was ditched as admitting little exploitation possibility. This is the first local instance for some time of playing down sex angel for b.o. reasons.

Lewis J. Warner Dies at 23: Business boy of much personal charm impressed entire Warner staff by ability. Lewis J. Warner, 23, son of Harry M. Warner, succumbed to double pneumonia on April 4 in New York. Young Warner’s death is directly traceable to a tooth extraction which had performed against his dentist’s advice prior to taking his first vacation in a couple of years. On the way to Havana, he was stricken with septic poisoning. The struggle to save the youngest of the active Warners was waged valiantly by Lewis but he succumbed to his illnesses.

Polly Moran Banged Up: Polly Moran was taken to the Hollywood hospital Sunday (April 5) with a broken nose, two shiners and a cut on her head. Hospital record states Miss Moran fell down the stairs of her Santa Monica Beach house. Another less pacific version of the affair is reported without foundation. Miss Moran was due to go to work this week on Marie and Polly on Politics with Marie Dressler. Start of picture is postponed pending her recovery.

Polly Moran

1932:

Metro Irked by Gable Ballyhoo on Polly: Exhibitors billing Clark Gable as the unofficial star of Polly of the Circus has been creating quite a bit of protest around MGM. Indie exhibs often starred Gable alone, leaving the player of the title role, Marion Davies, to be guessed at.

No Divorce for George: Mrs George Jessel has made a condition that may block any chance of a marriage between her husband and Norma Talmadge. Mrs Jessel has said she will not consent to a divorce until she can sue her husband and name a correspondent. Jessel is supposed to have made and emphatic refusal after hearing the name his wife wished to mention. Miss Talmadge has not yet started the agreed upon divorce suit against Jos. Schenck. They were married about 16-years-ago. The Jessel’s have been twice married. Mrs Jessel is the former Florence Courtney of the Courtney Sisters. They remarried followed a divorce procured after a prolonged separation.

George and Florence during happier times

Photo of Home Driving Dietrich to New One: Reason why the names endeavour to keep their addresses and telephones a secret was manifest by Marlene Dietrich’s recent experiences. As a sideline to the Lindbergh baby kidnapping, a local paper ran a story on the precautions being taken by colony members against any similar abduction of their children. Picture was run showing Miss Dietrich’s home, with windows barred and the address was given. Since then an average of 60 telegrams a day have been received by the star from salesman and racketeers trying to interest her in every bargain and money-making scheme. More than this number called at the home with similar propositions while hundreds of others have paid visits to the home to get a look at the player in person. She is now looking for another house.

1933:

Hooker Title Banned: Hays office has ordered Fox to get a new tag for Sandy Hooker, a Clara Bow picture. Studio has requested suggestions from employees.

Only $200,000: H. G. Wells has notified studios that he has an original idea for a picture which he will sell for $200,000. He requests studios interested, through his agent, to send one to England to discuss his idea.

Dressler Quite Ill: Strong probability Marie Dressler will be unable to play in Tugboat Annie and The Late Christopher Bean. Since her return from New York following her operation, she has been far from strong but insisted upon going into Dinner at Eight, now in production. Current opinion is that the strain of working in this feature will necessitate an indefinite vacation.

1934:

Rothschild Smashes Boston: In the face of a torrential downpour, House of Rothschild broke all roadshow records on its opening at Boston. Advance sale is big and the picture will run two-a-day indefinitely.

Richard Barthelmess, sent to bed by the doctor due to an abscessed ear, is expected back Wednesday at First National to resume his role in The Old Doll’s House.

Seven of the beauties brought out here by Earl Carroll for Paramount’s screen version of Murder at the Vanities are remaining in Hollywood. They are Ruth Hilliard, Wanda Perry, Anya Taranda, Beryl Wallace, Ernestine Anderson, Constance Jordan and Dorothy Dawes.

All WAMPAS Stars in Paramount Picture: Entire group of 13 WAMPAS Baby Stars have been signed for Paramount production, Kiss and Make-Up. The group includes Jacqueline Wells, Katherine Williams, Gigi Parrish, Lu Ann Meredith, Lucille Lund, Ann Hovey, Hazel Hayes, Jean Gale, Dorothy Drake, Helene Cohn, Jean Carmen, Betty Brysen and Judith Arlen. Cast of the picture is headed by Cary Grant and Helen Mack.

The 1934 WAMPAS Baby Stars

Everything you need to know about the goings-ons and gossip from this week in Precode Hollywood.

1929:

‘It’ Grows Stale: With the ‘It’ trade mark wearing out its usefulness for Clara Bow, Paramount press agents are trying to coin new emblems to identify the gal. Some of the suggestions that have already reached print are: ‘The Brooklyn Bonfire’, ‘Million Candle Power Girl’, ‘God’s Gift to Tired Business Men’ and other hot box-office titles.

Stalling Talkers: Jack Warner has found that the wear on his nervous system answering questions when visiting or dining out is eased up considerably through the distribution of printed cards. According to the tenor of conversationalists, the chief of Warner studios slips over the reply. On reads: “Who is double-crossing you now?” Another says in type: “Go to our theatre if you want to hear people talking pictures.”

The head of the family, Jack Warner

Way Out of Sync: Audience at the opening night of Noah’s Ark at Chicago, went into roars of laughter when the synchronisation went wrong during a tough argument between George O’Brien and Big Boy Williams. Instead of the husky voice of Williams, came the the soft tons of Dolores Costello saying, ‘He said to kiss me again for France.”

A scene from Noah's Art

Paramount Denies Eagels’ Strife: Jealousy resumed production on April 4 after an enforced layoff. Studio denies Jeanne Eagels walked off the set as reported in the dallies or that there was any temperamental break between Paramount and Miss Eagels. She was ill and, moreover, her leading man, Anthony Bushnell, under a term contract, was also ill and was away two days longer than Miss Eagles. Jealousy will be finished on April 13, one week behind schedule. (I bet the rumour-mongers felt guilty when Jeanne Eagles died six months later with Jealousy her last picture).

Jeanne Eagels in Jealousy

1930:

Making the Weight: Biggest market for weighing scales is Hollywood. Hardly a home there without a scale. First National has even gone to the extent of analysing what weight would best suit its actors and latter are accordingly advised or ordered. Weight is based according to particular roles but in this manner an actor or actress gets first hand info without argument.

Busby Berkeley measuring chorus girls

Buster Keaton say he mastered a vocabulary of 1,000 words in three days but forgets what they were.

Fifi Pleads ‘Slavery’ on Constitution of US: Fifi D’Orsay is invoking the Constitution of the US and asking the Los Angeles courts to liberate her from a contract with Lyons & Lyons agents on the grounds of ‘slavery’. The complaint filed is a kickback to the suit brought by the agent against her on her contract with Fox. The Constitution states: “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude except as punishment for crimes of the party who shall have been duly convicted shall exit in the United States.” The agent has responded by commenting that it is “promiscuous” and “laughable”.

Don't mess with Fifi

Manager Shoots Wife in Leg: Peter Brill, former manager of the Majestic in Indiana, shot his 17-years-old wife in the leg and killed himself in a hotel room. The actress wife was taken to hospital. Her condition is not serious.

1931:

Scandalous Reports on MacDonald All False: Though reported in Variety as on her way from New York to Los Angeles, Jeannette MacDonald received columns of local front page and unsavoury publicity as the heroine of a drama supposed to have taken place in Italy. Story, for which the whole press fell, is that she had had an affair with the Italian hereditary prince, whose wife, Princess Marie Jose of Belgium, was supposed to have shot. Miss MacDonald dead in a fit of jealousy, ordering the body to be disposed of secretly.

Jeannette MacDonald

Roth Marries Despite Grief Over Fiance’s Death: Lillian Roth was married on April 11 to William C. Scott, non-pro from Pittsburgh. Bride gave her age as 22 and the groom as 24. The announcement comes a short while after the death of her reported former fiancé, Herbert Oshins, which occurred in January. At the time of his death, Miss Roth went into hysterics. She carried on outwardly in a most noticeable fashion.

Lillian Ross

When script of Five Star Final was completed, one of the Warners execs discovered there was a character named Luella, a rough newspaper woman. Luella immediately became Kitty.

1932:

Tyrone Power Set: Tyrone Power has been set for his first picture. He goes into Brown of Culver at Universal. He is 18.

Young Tyrone Power

Chico Marx’s Auto Wreck: Chico Marx’s car got tangled with another in Los Angeles on April 9 and the comedian was taken to the hospital with a dislocated kneecap and chest injuries. It is anticipated that he will be discharged in about a week. Meanwhile Paramount is continuing production on Horse Feathers with the other three Marxs, holding Chico’s sequences for his recovery.

Chico Marx

The Mayor Helps: The Strand to advertise The Crowd Roars required the help of the mayor and police department. House advertised for several days that the theatre was to stage a junior automobile sweepstakes for children with the motive power their sturdy legs. Eight children, the oldest eight, entered the contest. The race started at State and Pearl streets, after the police cleared the main street. Mayor Thacher started the youngsters off.

Liquor and Meds Start Agitation Anew: Fearing that drinking scenes in pictures might prove an argument against prohibition, bone drys throughout the country are petitioning censor boards demanding an absolute ban on pictures showing liquor, drinking scenes or mention of wetness. Revived agitation is reported to have arisen following release of The Wet Parade, though in that picture reformers find something to cheer about. Most of the petitions come from rural districts where the pluggers have sold the idea that Hollywood producers are trying to encourage drinking by glorifying it.

A scene from Wet Parade (1932)

1933:

Answering the $500,000 suit against him and three others by Jack Montgomery, on behalf of Baby Peggy Montgomery, Norman Sper alleges he has no information or belief that Montgomery is the father of Baby Peggy, as set forth in the suit. All other charges are denied.

The very cute Baby Peggy

Nils Asther played only one day in Metro’s Dinner at Eight, when he was replaced by Edmund Lowe, studio deciding he was a better type for the part.

Garbo’s Alias: When a Swedish steamer put into Antwerp on Monday, Mlle. Gustavson went ashore for a couple of days wandering about the city visiting its art museums and galleries and port. Only when the steamer left to continue her voyage to San Francisco did Antwerp citizens learn that Mlle. Gustavson was Greta Garbo.

Miriam Hopkins Broken Ankle Stalls Strangers: Metro has postponed Strangers Return from April 17 to May 1. Reason given is that Miriam Hopkins broke her ankle. In the meantime, Phil Strong, author of the story, will be brought on lot to revise script, aided by King Vidor, who will direct.

1934:

Hazel Forbes, blonde heiress, will make her screen debut. She has been signed for a role in Down to the Last Yacht, musical extravaganza. Miss Forbes joins a cast that includes Sidney Fox, Ned Sparks, Sidney Blackmer and Mary Boland.

The young Hazel Forbes

Contrary to the general belief, Greta Garbo, uses less make-up than any star in pictures. Only a slight tinge of greasepaint covered by light powder is her entire facial makeup.

Raquel Torres and Stephen Ames (former husband of Adrienne Ames) are to be married within the next two weeks, according to present plans.

Mr and Mrs Stephen Ames

Lilyan Tashman Left $31,000: Lilyan Tashman, who died last month in New York, left an estate of about $31,000, mostly cash and bonds, according to a petition of letters for administration filed by her husband, Edmund Lowe. Miss Tashman left no will.

Lilyan and Edmund during happier times