Watch Millie

Millie, released in 1931, is a captivating drama that explores the dynamics of love, marriage, and infidelity in the confines of 1920s New York. Directed by John Francis Dillon, this film showcases a stellar cast featuring Helen Twelvetrees, Lilyan Tashman, and Robert Ames. With its heartfelt performances, stunning visuals, and an engrossing storyline, Millie swiftly captivates its audience, offering a poignant reflection on the challenges faced by women during that era.

The film introduces us to the titular character, Millie Blake (played by Helen Twelvetrees), a young and naive woman who grows up in a small town. Dreaming of a better future, she heads to New York City to pursue her ambitions. However, the harsh reality of the city quickly sets Millie on a path filled with betrayal and heartache.

As she settles into the city, Millie finds work as a stenographer in a lower Manhattan office building. Here she meets charming and seemingly genuine bachelor Jack Maitland (played by Robert Ames), who quickly becomes smitten with her innocent nature. Enchanted by her beauty and sincerity, Jack proposes marriage, and Millie gladly accepts, believing she has found the perfect man.

Millie's dreams of a blissful married life, however, are soon shattered when she discovers that Jack leads a double life. Unbeknownst to her, he is an unfaithful playboy who frequents the city's lavish parties and indulges in numerous affairs with other women, including the glamorous establishment owner, Helen Riley (played by Lilyan Tashman). Millie's world crumbles as she unravels the shocking truth about her husband's infidelity.

Heartbroken and betrayed, Millie finds solace in the company of Jimmie, a good-hearted but poor soda jerk played by Jimmy Lydon. Jimmie's genuine affection and loyalty towards Millie provide a glimmer of hope and renew her belief in true love. However, societal norms and the rigid class divide that exists in 1920s New York hinder their relationship, turning their love into an uphill battle.

Millie's journey through heartbreak, self-discovery, and resilience forms the crux of this emotionally charged film. Helen Twelvetrees delivers an exceptional performance as the eponymous character, bringing forth Millie's vulnerability, strength, and determination with utmost sincerity. Through her nuanced portrayal, she eloquently depicts the struggles faced by young women of the time, torn between societal expectations and their own desires.

The supporting cast also shines in their respective roles, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. Lilyan Tashman gives a standout performance as Helen Riley, the sophisticated and alluring femme fatale who unleashes a wave of turmoil in Millie's life. Robert Ames portrays the dashing but flawed Jack Maitland, effortlessly capturing the essence of a conflicted character trapped between love and temptation.

Notably, Millie stands out for its superb cinematography and production design, effectively capturing the glitz and glamour of 1920s New York. The extravagant parties, the bustling streets, and the depiction of socio-economic disparities are all meticulously crafted, fully immersing the audience in the world of the film.

In conclusion, Millie is a poignant exploration of love, loyalty, and the pursuit of happiness in a world filled with deception. Helen Twelvetrees's moving performance, supported by Lilyan Tashman and Robert Ames, brings the characters to life and underscores the struggles faced by women in the 1920s. With its powerful storytelling, Millie remains a remarkable film that continues to resonate with audiences nearly a century after its release.

Millie is a 1931 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 25 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2.