"Dishonour Bright" is an early British comedy packed with clever, witty dialog and much sexual innuendo. Tom Walls is the masterful purveyor of most of both as lead actor and director. Only here, the "innuendo" is as much fact as it is implied. His character, Stephen Champion, has libertine views and values which he avows in court, yet his actions remain honorable, if somewhat flirtatious.
Walls was known for his satire and matter-of-fact delivery on stage that could bring down the house in the dozen Aldwych farces that he produced and starred in. He carried that persona into films he began making rather late in his career - in 1930 at age 47. Only in his dramatic roles does Walls change from the self-assured, confident and easy-going character of wit and wisdom.
The rest of the cast in this film are all good. The most recognizable of them to movie mavens on both sides of the pond will be Eugene Pallette as Busby, George Sanders as Lisle, and Cecil Parker as Vincent Crane. But the wit and humor of "Dishonour Bright" are all Tom Walls' show.
This is a somewhat sophisticated comedy, and probably considered a little racy for its day. But, it's well done and filled with much humor. The fast action film followers of today may not be able to sit still for it, but people who like clever comedy and old films should enjoy this film. Here are some favorite lines.
Vincent Crane, "From your previous reply, I gather that you regard all women not only as potential, but willing victims." Stephen Champion, "No, how can a woman be a victim if she's willing?"
Stella Crane, "Candid's sort of an unusual virtue." Stephen Champion, "Oh, even my virtues are unusual."
Stephen Champion, "Then let's be perfectly honest with each other." Stella Crane, "Oh, good heavens, no. No respectable person's ever quite honest." Champion, "Oh, and no honest person is ever quite respectable." Stella Crane, "If you're respectable, you'll stop talking to me and go on." Champion, "And if I'm honest, I'll stay. Which would you rather I were?"
Stephen Champion, "Yes, darling, you always say the right thing -- even if you say it in the wrong way."
