A ★★★★ review of Evelyn Prentice (1934)

The movie starts out very well, with an almost pre-Code feel. I like the way cutting key scenes short keeps you guessing as to what's actually happening. As usual, both Myrna Loy and William Powell do well, while Una Merkel acts as a great sidekick and plot mover. But Isabel Jewell's portrayal deserves particular mention because her performance in the climactic courtroom scene is incredibly moving and strong. The end was a pleasant surprise. They threaded the Production Code needle with aplomb, which I appreciate very much.