Watch Cross-Examination

Cross-Examination is a 1932 courtroom drama that follows feisty lawyer Richard Reagan (played by H.B. Warner) as he attempts to clear the name of his client, Eve Leonard (Sally Blane), who has been accused of murdering her lover. The film is directed by Richard Thorpe and also stars Natalie Moorhead as the victim's jealous wife. The movie begins with Eve being arrested for the murder of her lover, Andrew Grover. The evidence seems to be stacked against her, however, Reagan convinces her to tell him the true story of what happened that night. Through numerous flashbacks, we see that Grover was a married man who was stringing Eve along, promising to leave his wife for her. When Eve finally confronts him about his lies, they argue and he ends up being shot with Eve's gun.

As the trial begins, Reagan goes head-to-head with the prosecutor, District Attorney Ferris (played by J. Farrell MacDonald), who seems to have a personal vendetta against Eve. Ferris pulls no punches in his attacks on Eve, her character, and her relationship with Grover. However, Reagan remains steadfast in his defense of Eve, even when it seems like all hope is lost.

The tension in the film is not only derived from the courtroom scenes, but also from the personal relationships between the characters. Moorhead's character, Mrs. Grover, is a jealous wife who appears to be hiding something. Additionally, Reagan's relationship with his secretary, Florence (played by Ann Dvorak), is complicated and adds another layer of drama to the film.

Overall, Cross-Examination is a well-crafted courtroom drama that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. The acting is superb, particularly by Warner as the determined lawyer and Blane as the accused Eve. The film also tackles themes of betrayal, jealousy, and manipulation, making it a complex and thought-provoking piece of cinema.