Title: Classic 19th-century melodrama
Review: The previous reviewer says this was based on Charles Reade's novel, which is partly true. Reade also made this into a play which was immensely popular in the 19th century and shocked Victorian audiences in its depiction of prision life. Many considered its "realism" too harsh. The performance on this 1930s film is in the style of the 19th-century melodrama as it would have been performed on the stage, including the style of acting. So if you want to eperience what that was like, try this film. Squire Meadows is a true "villain" and you'll be rooting for the hero, who is saved by his best friend!
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