Cocktail Hour (1933) [Blu-ray review]

“Cocktail Hour” released in 1933, stands as a poignant exploration of societal norms, personal ambition, and the complexities of human relationships during a period marked by economic uncertainty and evolving social values. Directed by Victor Schertzinger, this film weaves a tale that, while reflective of its era, resonates with timeless themes of love, ambition, and the search for identity amidst the backdrop of high society.

Cocktail Hour showed there was an upside to The Great Depression

At the heart of “Cocktail Hour” is the story of Celia and Bobbie, two individuals caught in the whirlwind of societal expectations and personal aspirations. The narrative unfolds in the glitzy, glamorous world of the social elite, where appearances are paramount, and relationships are often a means to an end. Celia, portrayed with a mix of vulnerability and determination by Bebe Daniels, is a woman of ambition who seeks love but is equally determined to carve out her identity and independence in a male-dominated society. Bobbie, played with charm and an air of nonchalance by Randolph Scott, is her counterpart, a man entangled in his responsibilities and the expectations placed upon him by his social standing.

The film navigates through their tumultuous relationship, marked by moments of tenderness, misunderstandings, and the pursuit of personal dreams. The narrative structure, characterized by its ebb and flow, mirrors the unpredictability of life itself, drawing the viewer into the lives of its characters and the complexity of their emotions.

It’s a drama as much as it isn’t

The strength of “Cocktail Hour” lies in its deep and thoughtful characterization. Celia’s character is a beacon of modernity, reflecting the evolving role of women in society. Her aspirations and desires go beyond the domestic sphere, challenging the traditional expectations of women during the 1930s. Bebe Daniels delivers a performance that is both nuanced and powerful, capturing the essence of Celia’s struggle and resilience.

Bobbie, on the other hand, embodies the quintessential gentleman of his time, yet is not without his complexities. Randolph Scott’s portrayal of Bobbie brings to the surface the internal conflict between fulfilling societal roles and pursuing personal happiness. The dynamic between Celia and Bobbie serves as a microcosm of the larger societal shifts occurring during the era, making their story not only compelling but also reflective of broader themes.

What is Cocktail Hour exactly?

Victor Schertzinger’s direction in “Cocktail Hour” is a masterclass in storytelling. His ability to balance the light-hearted moments with the underlying tension and emotional depth is commendable. Schertzinger’s use of close-ups and long shots effectively conveys the characters’ emotional states, making the viewer a participant in their journey rather than a mere observer.

The cinematography, handled with deft precision, complements the directorial vision. The use of lighting, especially in scenes that underscore the characters’ isolation or moments of intimacy, adds a layer of depth to the narrative. The visual contrast between the opulent settings of the social gatherings and the more intimate, personal spaces the characters inhabit reflects the dichotomy of their public personas and private selves.

Bebe Daniels brings the goods.

“Cockail Hour” is rich in themes that transcend its period setting. The search for identity in a world that demands conformity is perhaps the most poignant. Through Celia and Bobbie’s journey, the film explores the tension between personal desires and societal expectations, a theme that remains relevant. Additionally, the film delves into the concept of love as both a liberating and a confining force, a duality that is masterfully depicted through the protagonists’ relationship.

The critique of the superficiality of high society, with its emphasis on appearances and material success, serves as a backdrop to the more personal stories unfolding. This societal critique adds a layer of complexity to the film, inviting the viewer to reflect on the values and priorities that govern their lives.

Cocktail Hour comes to Blu-ray with no special features

Cocktail Hour is an incredibly early film from Columbia Pictures. However, the 1080p transfer and DTS-HD mono track shine due to the film’s recent 4K restoration. As much as I would like to see a massive 4K release for Columbia’s 100th Anniversary, the ability for Cocktail Hour to penetrate the collector market is very small.

Still, I’m glad that we have a Movie on Demand option to even see the movie at MovieZyng and other outlets.

Cocktail Hour is available to buy on Blu-ray from MovieZyng