Sometimes one can endure the barest of plots in a Warner Brothers Kay Francis melodrama merely to enjoy the parade of Orry-Kelly creations that Kay wore so perfectly. So it is in this dark melodrama, as semi-glacial Merle Oberon parades across lush sets in an amazing assemblage of distinctive, detailed costumes that put to shame the average melodrama. Oberon marries Egyptologist Brent not for adventure or to help him dig up a legendary mummy, but to be able to have riches for life, to be able to mingle with the well-do-to without apology and it isn't long before she falls afoul of someone not unlike her, an alluring lothario with looks and cunning; as their lusts cool, it doesn't take long for them to start plotting nasty deeds.
But it isn't really the plot that moves this fascinating story along--it's a sense of lush studio style at it's richest, peopled with largely unfamiliar but compelling character actors that provide the sense of a larger world outside. Strong soundtrack, impressive set decor and above all, one magnificent fashion creation after another provide fascination for the viewer who can deal with the melodrama.
But it isn't really the plot that moves this fascinating story along--it's a sense of lush studio style at it's richest, peopled with largely unfamiliar but compelling character actors that provide the sense of a larger world outside. Strong soundtrack, impressive set decor and above all, one magnificent fashion creation after another provide fascination for the viewer who can deal with the melodrama.