The Calendar (1931 film)

The Calendar is a 1931 British drama film directed by T. Hayes Hunter. It is based on the 1929 play The Calendar by Edgar Wallace, which was itself an adaptation of his 1925 novel. The film stars Herbert Marshall, Edna Best, and Anne Grey.

The story revolves around a wealthy horse owner, Harry "The Saint" Cardew, who is attempting to make a comeback after a period of bad luck and financial troubles. He believes his horse, The Calendar, is a sure winner in the upcoming Derby. However, his efforts are complicated by a manipulative former flame and various betting schemes. The film explores themes of obsession, gambling addiction, and the consequences of pursuing fortune at any cost.

The Calendar (1931) is a notable example of early British sound cinema. It achieved considerable popularity upon its release, in part due to the popularity of Edgar Wallace's works. It is considered a faithful adaptation of both the play and the novel, retaining the suspense and dramatic tension of the source material. The film utilizes then-contemporary filmmaking techniques to convey the thrill of horse racing and the high stakes involved in the world of gambling.