The Shining Hour

Watch The Shining Hour

"Joan's a Dancing Bride"
  • Approved
  • 1938
  • 1 hr 16 min
  • 6.4  (1,337)

The Shining Hour is a 1938 drama film starring Joan Crawford, Margaret Sullavan, and Robert Young. The film follows Joan Crawford as Olivia Riley, a wealthy woman who falls in love with a man named Henry Linden (Melvyn Douglas). Margaret Sullavan plays Olivia's younger sister Judy who is also in love with Henry, causing a love triangle to form.

The plot begins with Olivia returning from Europe after four years away. She finds that her family's finances have taken a turn for the worse, and they are struggling to make ends meet. Olivia is determined to help her family, so she offers to give a large sum of money to her sister Judy to open a dress shop. However, Judy declines the offer, wanting to make her own way in the world.

Meanwhile, Olivia meets Henry Linden and falls in love with him. Henry is a struggling artist who lives in a small apartment with his mother (Fay Bainter). Olivia offers to buy him a studio and support his art, but he declines the offer, wanting to make it on his own.

As Olivia and Henry's relationship develops, Judy also starts to fall for him. Henry is torn between the two sisters and struggles to decide who he truly loves. In the end, a tragic event occurs that changes all of their lives forever.

The film deals with themes of love, sacrifice, and family. It portrays the struggles of a family trying to make ends meet during the Great Depression and the sacrifices that individuals are willing to make for the people they love. The love triangle between the three main characters creates tension and drama throughout the film, culminating in a heartbreaking conclusion.

The Shining Hour is a showcase for the talents of its lead actresses. Joan Crawford delivers a nuanced performance as the wealthy and world-weary Olivia. Margaret Sullavan brings depth and vulnerability to her role as Judy, while Robert Young is captivating as the conflicted Henry.

The film also features strong supporting performances from Fay Bainter as Henry's protective mother, and Melvyn Douglas as the object of both sisters' affections.

Overall, The Shining Hour is a well-crafted drama that explores complex relationships and the struggles of ordinary people during a difficult time in history. Its compelling storyline, skilled performances, and poignant themes continue to make it a classic film even after more than 80 years.

The Shining Hour is a 1938 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 16 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4.

The Shining Hour
Description
Where to Watch The Shining Hour
The Shining Hour is available to watch, stream, download and buy on demand at Apple TV, Amazon, Google Play, YouTube VOD and Vudu. Some platforms allow you to rent The Shining Hour for a limited time or purchase the movie and download it to your device.
  • Release Date
    1938
  • MPAA Rating
    Approved
  • Runtime
    1 hr 16 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    6.4  (1,337)