The read
It runs a compact 1h 20m.
Synopsis
While giving a private performance for a visiting monarch, concert pianist Montgomery Royle is deafened when a bomb is detonated in an attempt to assassinate the foreign ruler. With his career over as a result of his injury, Royle returns to New York City with his sister Florence, close friend Mildred Miller, and considerably younger fiancée Grace Blair. After abandoning thoughts of suicide, Montgomery discovers he can lip read, and he spends his days observing people in Central Park from his apartment window. As he learns of people's problems, he tries to help them anonymously and becomes absorbed in his game of "playing God".
Ratings
IMDb6.8/10
10 audience votes
Key crew
- John G. AdolfiDirector
- Leo F. ForbsteinOriginal Music Composer
Cast
- George ArlissMontgomery Royle
- Violet HemingMildred Miller
- Bette DavisGrace Blair
- André LuguetThe King
- Louise Closser HaleFlorence Royle
- Donald CookHarold Van Adam
- Ivan F. SimpsonBattle
- Oscar ApfelAppleby - the Lip Reader
- Charles E. EvansThe Doctor
- Hedda HopperMrs. Alice Chittendon
- Ray MillandEddie (uncredited)
- Dorothy LibaireJenny (uncredited)
Stills
Themes
new york cityolder man younger woman relationshippre-codegood deedconcert pianistassassination attemptvowlip readingcommand performancehelping peopledeaf pianistsudden deafness