📜 Millie (1931) – A Scandalous Pre-Code Drama
🕰️ Runtime: 1h 19m
🎬 Director: John Francis Dillon
⭐ Starring: Helen Twelvetrees, Lilyan Tashman, Robert Ames
🔍 About the Film
Millie (1931) is a captivating pre-Code drama that explores love, betrayal, and societal constraints. The film follows the life of Millie Blake, a woman who experiences heartbreak, independence, and scandal in a world dominated by men. This film stands out for its bold themes, snappy dialogue, and dramatic twists—hallmarks of early Hollywood before the strict enforcement of the Hays Code.
📖 Plot Summary
Millie Blake (Helen Twelvetrees) is a small-town girl who marries a wealthy man, Jack Maitland (James Hall), hoping for a happy future. However, as Jack's infidelity comes to light, Millie leaves him, determined to make it on her own. Over the years, she navigates the highs and lows of single life, raising her daughter Connie. But when Connie's safety is threatened by a predatory man, Millie takes drastic action, leading to a dramatic courtroom showdown.
🎭 Cast & Characters
Helen Twelvetrees as Millie Blake – A determined woman seeking independence.
Lilyan Tashman as Angie Wickerstaff – Millie’s loyal and fun-loving friend.
Robert Ames as Tommy Rock – A charming but troubled suitor.
James Hall as Jack Maitland – Millie’s unfaithful husband.
John Halliday as Jimmy Damier – A wealthy but dangerous man.
Anita Louise as Connie Maitland – Millie’s beloved daughter.
📽️ Chapters & Timestamps
1️⃣ Love & Deception (00:00 – 16:00)
Millie falls for Jack Maitland and marries him, but soon discovers his infidelity.
2️⃣ A New Beginning (16:01 – 33:00)
Determined to be independent, Millie leaves Jack and starts a new life in the city.
3️⃣ Scandal & Survival (33:01 – 49:00)
Millie faces society’s judgment as she navigates relationships and financial struggles.
4️⃣ A Mother’s Sacrifice (49:01 – 1:05:00)
Millie fiercely protects Connie from Jimmy Damier’s sinister intentions.
5️⃣ Courtroom Drama & Justice (1:05:01 – 1:19:00)
Millie takes a stand, leading to a shocking trial that tests her strength and values.
🔖 Themes & Legacy
🔹 Female Independence: Millie’s journey reflects the struggles and strength of women in the early 20th century.
🔹 Pre-Code Boldness: The film tackles themes of infidelity, single motherhood, and moral ambiguity without censorship.
🔹 Classic Cinematic Style: Dynamic storytelling, sharp dialogue, and emotional performances make Millie a standout.
🎬 Why Watch Millie?
✅ A gripping drama with strong female leads.
✅ A rare look at pre-Code Hollywood’s daring storytelling.
✅ Riveting performances from Helen Twelvetrees and Lilyan Tashman.
🕰️ Runtime: 1h 19m
🎬 Director: John Francis Dillon
⭐ Starring: Helen Twelvetrees, Lilyan Tashman, Robert Ames
🔍 About the Film
Millie (1931) is a captivating pre-Code drama that explores love, betrayal, and societal constraints. The film follows the life of Millie Blake, a woman who experiences heartbreak, independence, and scandal in a world dominated by men. This film stands out for its bold themes, snappy dialogue, and dramatic twists—hallmarks of early Hollywood before the strict enforcement of the Hays Code.
📖 Plot Summary
Millie Blake (Helen Twelvetrees) is a small-town girl who marries a wealthy man, Jack Maitland (James Hall), hoping for a happy future. However, as Jack's infidelity comes to light, Millie leaves him, determined to make it on her own. Over the years, she navigates the highs and lows of single life, raising her daughter Connie. But when Connie's safety is threatened by a predatory man, Millie takes drastic action, leading to a dramatic courtroom showdown.
🎭 Cast & Characters
Helen Twelvetrees as Millie Blake – A determined woman seeking independence.
Lilyan Tashman as Angie Wickerstaff – Millie’s loyal and fun-loving friend.
Robert Ames as Tommy Rock – A charming but troubled suitor.
James Hall as Jack Maitland – Millie’s unfaithful husband.
John Halliday as Jimmy Damier – A wealthy but dangerous man.
Anita Louise as Connie Maitland – Millie’s beloved daughter.
📽️ Chapters & Timestamps
1️⃣ Love & Deception (00:00 – 16:00)
Millie falls for Jack Maitland and marries him, but soon discovers his infidelity.
2️⃣ A New Beginning (16:01 – 33:00)
Determined to be independent, Millie leaves Jack and starts a new life in the city.
3️⃣ Scandal & Survival (33:01 – 49:00)
Millie faces society’s judgment as she navigates relationships and financial struggles.
4️⃣ A Mother’s Sacrifice (49:01 – 1:05:00)
Millie fiercely protects Connie from Jimmy Damier’s sinister intentions.
5️⃣ Courtroom Drama & Justice (1:05:01 – 1:19:00)
Millie takes a stand, leading to a shocking trial that tests her strength and values.
🔖 Themes & Legacy
🔹 Female Independence: Millie’s journey reflects the struggles and strength of women in the early 20th century.
🔹 Pre-Code Boldness: The film tackles themes of infidelity, single motherhood, and moral ambiguity without censorship.
🔹 Classic Cinematic Style: Dynamic storytelling, sharp dialogue, and emotional performances make Millie a standout.
🎬 Why Watch Millie?
✅ A gripping drama with strong female leads.
✅ A rare look at pre-Code Hollywood’s daring storytelling.
✅ Riveting performances from Helen Twelvetrees and Lilyan Tashman.
Category
🎥
Short film