The feeling of being trapped was palpable throughout the movie, especially as we meet an affluent family residing in a spacious house located in London's exclusive western area. There are nine grown children, all living under the strict control of their domineering father (Charles Laughton). His absolute decree is that none of his children can marry—a rule that hasn’t been a major issue until now. Things start to shi…

The sequences featuring Norma Shearer and Fredric March didn't work for me. Shearer’s acting, which I often find affected, becomes truly excessive here, undermining what would otherwise be a decent melodrama. Charles Laughton is the only one who delivers a noteworthy performance; his portrayal really stands out. Maureen O’Sullivan and Uno O'Connor do their best to help the film along, but Norma Shearer ultimately har…