MovieChat Forums > Men Are Such Fools (1938) Discussion > Bogart, but that Mona Barrie!

Bogart, but that Mona Barrie!


This is not a great film for Humphrey Bogart fans, let's face it. He didn't make an appearence until nearly half an hour into the film, and he has a thankless supporting role as the boss threatening the engaged couple's stability. However, I was surprised by one performance in the film, that of Mona Barrie, an British born actress I've not noticed before. Her scenes as the tough but feminine Ms. Harris are effective in this rather bland comedy. I would rather have seen a movie about her character. It would have been great to see her in something akin to a 1930's version of "The Devil Wears Prada"

reply

Mona Barrie reminded me of Kay Francis here. I mean that in a good way. (Kay Francis in "career gal" mode, not "society dame" Kay Francis.)

I checked this out because I've been watching a lot of Busby Berkeley films lately. This had all the silly fluffy nonsense, but none of the charm, verve or imagination that I've come to associate with Berkeley. Too bad.



last 2 dvds: Olympia 2. Teil - Fest der Schönheit (1938) & The Trip (2010)

reply

I was reminded of young Rosalind Russell. If only the film had been about her and Bogie! I had no interest whatsoever for the leading couple.

reply

Not a focused or well written film at all. The Wayne Morris character is extremely annoying. Priscilla Lane is absolutely adorable and charismatic(as usual). Mona Barrie shines as a smart and witty career girl. What the hell is Bogart doing here? Mona and Priscilla make the film watchable despite its many shortcomings.

reply