The Spellbinder

Synopsis

The Spellbinder is a 1939 drama centered around the charming and cunning con artist, played by Lee Tracy. The film explores the complex dynamics between the con man and his unsuspecting victims, as well as his eventual entanglement with genuine emotions. As he navigates deception and manipulation, the story delves into themes of trust, betrayal, and redemption. With sharp dialogue and intriguing character interactions, The Spellbinder offers a look into the moral ambiguities of human nature set against the backdrop of the late 1930s.

Cast

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  Lee Tracy

  Jed Marlowe

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  Barbara Read

  Janet Marlowe

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  Patric Knowles

  Tom Dixon

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  Allan Lane

  Steve Kendall

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  Linda Hayes

  Miss Simpson

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  Morgan Conway

  Mr. Carrington

Reviews

Critical reception of The Spellbinder has been mixed over the years. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 6.2/10, reflecting a moderate appreciation from audiences who value its classic dialogue and Lee Tracy’s charismatic performance. Some critics have praised Tracy’s ability to bring a witty, fast-talking energy to his role that captures the spirit of 1930s cinema, noting that his portrayal adds significant charm and pace to the film. However, others have pointed out that the movie’s plot feels somewhat predictable, with certain narrative elements lacking depth or development. Rotten Tomatoes does not have an aggregated score for this vintage title, but individual reviews highlight that while the film is entertaining in parts, it may not satisfy viewers looking for a more substantial or groundbreaking story. Overall, The Spellbinder is seen as a period piece with solid performances but limited by its era’s storytelling conventions.

See also

X2

Oldboy

Jackie Brown

Rambo III