The Sacred Flame (1931 film)
The Sacred Flame is a 1931 American pre-Code drama film directed by William Dieterle. It is based on the 1928 play of the same name by W. Somerset Maugham. The film stars Pauline Frederick, Conrad Nagel, Lila Lee, and William "Stage" Boyd.
Plot Synopsis: The film revolves around the Birrell family. Maurice Birrell, a paralyzed war veteran, is cared for by his devoted mother, Mrs. Birrell. His wife, Stella, is young and restless. When Maurice dies unexpectedly, the circumstances surrounding his death are deemed suspicious, and suspicions quickly fall upon Stella. An investigation ensues, revealing a complex web of relationships and hidden desires within the household. The film explores themes of mercy killing, adultery, and the ethical dilemmas faced by those caring for a disabled person.
Cast:
- Pauline Frederick as Mrs. Birrell
- Conrad Nagel as Colin Trent
- Lila Lee as Stella Birrell
- William "Stage" Boyd as Maurice Birrell
- Monroe Owsley as Dr. Harvester
- Dale Fuller as Nurse Wayland
- Clarence Muse as Perkins
Production: The film was produced by Warner Bros. and First National Pictures.
Reception: Contemporary reviews were mixed, with some critics finding the film a well-acted adaptation of Maugham's play, while others criticized its slow pace and heavy subject matter. The film is now primarily noted for being a pre-Code production, dealing with controversial themes that would have been censored under the stricter enforcement of the Production Code later in the 1930s.
Availability: The film is available on DVD.