You would think with Hollywood heavyweights, such as Jean Harlow and Spencer Tracey that the movie would have to be great. You'd be wrong.
First, this film shows the corruption and anti-American values that labor unions have. Spencer Tracey plays fishermen, turned union leader who is immediately corrupted by his newfound power. It isn't long before his fellow fishermen are tired of his lack of leadership and replace him.
Of course, Jean Harlow (who received top billing in 1935) plays the love interest, turned spouse. Once Tracey is ousted, he and Harlow's young marriage begins spiraling out of control.
Ultimately, Riffraff tries to tell too many story lines. Personally I think Spencer Tracey is an overrated actor. This is one of the rolls where he tries to do an accent and it is just awful (Captain Courageous is another). I don't understand why actors insist on doing accents if they aren't capable of being believable.
Anyway, Harlow is about the only saving grace in this film but the script and direction is just not good.
First, this film shows the corruption and anti-American values that labor unions have. Spencer Tracey plays fishermen, turned union leader who is immediately corrupted by his newfound power. It isn't long before his fellow fishermen are tired of his lack of leadership and replace him.
Of course, Jean Harlow (who received top billing in 1935) plays the love interest, turned spouse. Once Tracey is ousted, he and Harlow's young marriage begins spiraling out of control.
Ultimately, Riffraff tries to tell too many story lines. Personally I think Spencer Tracey is an overrated actor. This is one of the rolls where he tries to do an accent and it is just awful (Captain Courageous is another). I don't understand why actors insist on doing accents if they aren't capable of being believable.
Anyway, Harlow is about the only saving grace in this film but the script and direction is just not good.