weezeralfalfa Despite the introductory disclaimer, it's generally acknowledged that this film was inspired by the court case involving NYC mobster kingpin Lucky Luciano and associates, which took place the year before, in 1936. They were found guilty of trafficking in compulsory prostitution, which involved most organized prostitution in Manhattan. Unfortunately, the Motion Picture Production Code forbade mention of prostitution in films. Thus, another charge was adopted for the film : murder. Unfortunately, it's a rather weak case for first degree murder, as the girl witness, Emmy Lou(Isabel Jewell), testified that mob kingpin Johnny Vanning(Eduardo Cainnelli), didn't intentionally push Betty Strauber(Jane Bryan) down the stairs to her death, but rather slapped her: the force knocking her off balance. Sure sounds like an accidental homicide! But, in the film, apparently, it qualifies as first degree murder, justifying the sentence of 30-50 years in prison for Vanning and his associates..... There is a prior murder, generally blamed on Vanning's goons, but unproven in court. Ralph Krawford was a patron at Vanning's Café Intimate, writing a check for his lavish spending. He took an evening taxi with Mary Strauber(Bette Davis), going first to her apartment, then Krawford presumably continuing on to the Waldorf Astoria. The taxi they rode in was followed by a taxi containing 2 of Vanning's goons. They were following because they (supposedly) knew that Krawford's check was no good. How did they figure that out without going to a bank(this being late evening?) In the morning, it was reported that Krawford's body was found in an alley. In a pocket, was a slip of paper bearing Mary Strauber's name and address. Thus, Mary was traced, and she was arrested as a prime suspect. She had an interview with David Graham(Humphrey Bogart). She tells him what she saw and heard, but he isn't satisfied. He suspects she knows more. Later, she fabricates a story she thinks he will like. But, in court, it is proven to be erroneous. Graham was very disappointed in her, but what did he expect when she had no more truth to divulge?....... Bette Davis was wonderfully animated and believable, throughout. Eduardo was also good as the gangster kingpin. Bogart was quite handsome and smartly dressed, in contrast to his disheveled look in many of his prior films. It's hard to believe he is the same Bogart who played the desperado Duke Mantee, in "Petrified Forest"! He gives a wonderful speech in his closing statement in the trial. The judge also gave a great summary speech. In spite of the several criticisms I've leveled at the screenplay, I believe it's a worthwhile film to watch.

alexanderdavies-99382 1937 was a major turning point for the career of Bette Davis. After spending the last few years in making films for the studio that didn't always benefit her, Davis finally landed the kind of film which would stretch her acting ability most effectively. "Marked Woman" is such a film. This is about as brutal and as realistic as it gets and the film supplies the viewers with plenty of gritty and violent entertainment. "Warner Bros." must have known they were pushing the envelope somewhat with "Marked Woman." Such violent content was unseen in those far more Conservative days but it was a risk that paid off. This is a fine film in every way and I'm sure Humphrey Bogart would have enjoyed the challenge regarding his career. From 1936 til 1940, he played mainly one- dimensional villains. Here, he is cast on the right side of the law for a change. Bogart plays the Assistant District Attorney who is determined to bring about the downfall of a notorious Mafia pimp and godfather. Bette Davis plays one of several call girls to the Mafia Don who initially refuses to help Bogart. However, due to the brutal killing of her younger sister and her own savage beating, Davis decides to finally bring about the decline of her evil boss. The scene where Davis is permanently scarred and assaulted is something that can rival any film made by any studio in Hollywood. I'd wager that the American Film Censors would have frowned down upon some material. Nevertheless, although the scene in question is only heard and not seen, it carries considerable shock value. It is Bette Davis and Humphrey Bogart who share the acting honours. The latter delivers a brilliantly written deliberation in one of the closing scenes which takes place in court. "Marked Woman" isn't a typical gangster film by the studio, it is more of a drama with the emphasis on character. The entire film carries an air of hopelessness for the most part but that is how it is meant to be. Applying a word like "Entertainment" isn't correct but the film certainly enlightens and also informs its audience. This is no bit of escapism.

Nazi_Fighter_David A night-club owner called Johnny Vanning (Eduardo Ciannelli) was exploiting his hostesses, one of whom was Mary Dwight (Bette Davis). She was asked with her companions of the Club Intime to induce clients to drink, gamble and spend freely… A few nights later Mary brings a sucker, Rulph Krawford (Damian O'Flynn) to the club… After Krawford loses a large amount of money gambling and then refuses to pay off the debt, Vanning orders his henchman Charley Delaney (Ben Welden) to get rid of him… When special prosecutor, David Graham (Humphrey Bogart), questions Mary concerning Krawford's assassination, she denies in providing any helpful information… Bogart's performance successfully applied malice determination and calmly exhibited compassion and concern… He was particularly effective, both firm, and penetrating, in his courtroom scenes, which served as an early warm-up for similar role twelve years later in Nicholas Ray's "Knock On Any Door." Mayo Methot was also in the cast as one of the hostesses and it was during the filming that Bogart took her as his second wife

Michael_Elliott Marked Woman (1937) *** (out of 4) A prosecutor (Humphrey Bogart) tries to get a key witness (Bette Davis) to testify against her gangster boss. The first hour of this film was only so-so but it certainly picked up in the final half hour when the gangsters start going after Davis and her younger sister. I think the story is just standard Warner stuff but the performances by Davis and Bogart makes this a small classic that makes for a good time. Davis is very good in her role, although I felt she came off a tad bit campy whenever she was playing anger. A few of her anger scenes made me smile but for the rest of the time she's on fire. Bogart is also very good in his role and it's always fun seeing him play a clean good guy without any baggage. The supporting cast is also in good form and features nice performances from Lola Lane, Isabel Jewell, Eduardo Ciannelli and Mayo Methot (future Mrs. Bogart). Cagney's buddy Allen Jenkins has a fun cameo. The final courtroom scenes are very well handled with some nice cinematography including a great shot during Bogart's closing statement where the camera swoops down on him.