Mandarin Mystery Art Deco

Here's another little Republic program-filler loaded with Art Deco goodness:

 

I always cringe while watching films with titles like this, bracing myself for sudden appearances of racist depictions but the only Oriental appearance is on a stamp. Whew!

A very lovely demonstration of decorous lounging on an Art Deco chair (bias-cut silk evening gown required):

Oh golly, I want those sconces!

Out of respect for Franklin Pangborn, who faints repeatedly throughout the picture, I didn't include the great one but you can

watch it here for yourself.

The Mandarin Mystery (1936)

directed by Ralph Staub

cinematography by Jack Marta

frills over onyx

Wow, does that ever look like fun!
This is a great title sequence-
graceful, curvilinear, flowery,
and completely unlike the design of the film itself.
Just like Fred and Ginger with their
graceful steps and her frilled gowns gliding
over the hard flat Art Deco sets.
Its a contrasting platform that serves to highlight the art of the dance
of the hands and of the feet.

Carefree (1938)
directed by Mark Sandrich
art direction by Van Nest Polglase