Handsome David Manners was an inconsistent early 1930s star, whose performances in certain movies - Dracula being a particularly good example - definitely either fell seriously flat, seemed "called in," or simply were no big deal. However, when he was well cast, truly committed to a role, had good direction, and performed in the company of a strong co-star whom he knew to up his game around, he could be outstanding.

In this terrific 1931 film Manners gives a beautiful, nuanced, sensitive, charming, delightful, at times heartbreaking, completely believable complex performance, that's spot-on perfection in every way and is moving and thoroughly compelling. Every moment that he's on screen rings absolutely true and keeps the viewer caring. David Manners definitely clearly did have tremendous talent. It's a shame that he left Hollywood in 1936, though completely understandable why he did.