Originally filmed as a silent in 1927, Maureen Dallas Watkins' play was later adapted by veteran 20th Century Fox scribe Nunnally Johnson, with Ginger Rogers as the wise-cracking, gum-chewing murderess. Produced in 1942, the film marked a period when the actress was moving away from her iconic persona as a romantic interest in several elegant musicals with Fred Astaire, and William Wellman's snappy direction keeps the crazy dialogue moving at a rapid pace. (Note brief running time.)

20th Century Fox's transfer is very nice, taken from a decent print, with good grey levels preserving Leon Shamroy's cinematography. In addition to the original mono sound mix, there's an acceptable quasi- stereo remix.

Included are the film's teaser ("She's as demure as a lady of dynamite!") and original theatrical trailer.

Watkins' play was subsequently adapted as a Broadway musical by Bob Fosse, whose daring choreography was retained for

© 2004 Mark R. Hasan