High Stakes 1931
Step into the glittering yet treacherous world of *High Stakes (1931)*, a Pre-Code comedy-drama that blends sharp wit with the decadent energy of the Roaring Twenties.
Director: Lowell Sherman
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is High Stakes (1931) about?
*High Stakes (1931)* follows a charismatic gambler navigating a high-stakes world of wealth, deception, and fleeting morality. The film revolves around his risky relationships and the blurred lines between winning hearts and winning fortunes, all set against the backdrop of a luxurious casino. It's a snapshot of an era where charm and cunning go hand in hand.
Who directed High Stakes?
The film was directed by Lowell Sherman, who also stars in it. Sherman's dual role as director and lead adds a layer of personal investment to this Pre-Code gem.
Who stars in High Stakes?
The film features a stellar cast including Lowell Sherman, Mae Murray, Karen Morley, Edward Martindel, and Leyland Hodgson, with Ethel Levey rounding out the ensemble.
Is High Stakes (1931) worth watching?
*High Stakes (1931)* is a fascinating relic of early Hollywood, offering a mix of sharp comedy and dramatic tension that reflects the audacious spirit of the era. While it may lack modern pacing, its historical value and Mae Murray's final leading role make it a compelling watch for fans of Pre-Code films and classic cinema.
How long is High Stakes?
The film runs for 72 minutes, making it a concise yet immersive experience perfect for a single sitting.
About High Stakes (1931) — A Pre-Code Gambling Comedy with Silent Star Mae Murray
Step into the glittering yet treacherous world of *High Stakes (1931)*, a Pre-Code comedy-drama that blends sharp wit with the decadent energy of the Roaring Twenties. Directed by and starring the charismatic Lowell Sherman, this film marks a poignant farewell to silent screen icon Mae Murray's leading lady days, wrapping her luminous career in one last dazzling performance. Set against the backdrop of a high-society casino where fortunes—and morals—are constantly wagered, the story follows a cunning gambler whose charm and ruthlessness blur the line between survival and self-destruction. As bets are raised and secrets unravel, the film explores themes of ambition, loyalty, and the cost of living life at full tilt.
With its snappy dialogue, glamorous settings, and undercurrents of moral ambiguity, *High Stakes (1931)* captures the electric tension of an era where the line between comedy and drama was as thin as the stakes on a card table. Sherman's direction infuses the narrative with a playful yet sharp-edged tone, while the ensemble cast—including Karen Morley and Edward Martindel—delivers performances that oscillate between sophistication and scandal. It's a time capsule of early cinema's audacity, where the stakes are high, and the laughs are a little dangerous.