The Single Standard

Plot

Arden Stuart Hewlett is a wealthy but bored socialite who rejects the conventional path of marriage to a suitable suitor. Instead, she embarks on a passionate affair with a dashing but poor artist named Packy Cannon. Their whirlwind romance takes them from the glamorous society of San Francisco to the exotic landscapes of the South Seas, where they attempt to live by their own rules. However, when Packy's artistic ambitions clash with their unconventional lifestyle, Arden must choose between her freedom and the traditional life she once scorned. The film explores the tension between personal fulfillment and societal expectations in the Jazz Age.

Historical Background

The Single Standard was produced and released during a pivotal moment in American cultural history - the height of the Jazz Age and the transition to sound cinema. The stock market crash of 1929 occurred just months after the film's release, marking the end of the Roaring Twenties. The film's themes of female independence and questioning of traditional values reflected the 'New Woman' phenomenon of the 1920s, when women were gaining greater social and economic freedom. The timing of its release during the sound revolution made it part of the last wave of major silent productions, representing the pinnacle of silent filmmaking artistry just before the format's decline.

Making Of

The production of 'The Single Standard' occurred during one of Hollywood's most turbulent periods - the transition from silent to sound films. Director John S. Robertson, a veteran of silent cinema, had to contend with studio executives who were debating whether to add dialogue to the film. Greta Garbo, whose Swedish accent was a concern for talkies, was initially hesitant about sound films. The production team used innovative techniques for the synchronized musical score, employing the Movietone system. The South Seas sequences, though filmed on Catalina Island, required extensive set construction and the use of painted backdrops to create the illusion of exotic locations. Garbo and Asther maintained their professional relationship despite rumors of off-screen tension, with both actors demanding multiple takes for key emotional scenes.

Visual Style

The cinematography by William H. Daniels employed sophisticated lighting techniques to enhance Garbo's famous screen presence, using soft focus and dramatic shadows to create her ethereal quality. The film featured innovative camera movements for its time, including tracking shots during the romantic sequences. The South Seas scenes utilized natural lighting and extensive location photography to create authentic exotic atmosphere. Daniels employed double exposure techniques for dream sequences and used high-contrast lighting to emphasize the emotional states of the characters.

Innovations

The film utilized the latest in silent film technology, including the Movietone system for synchronized sound. The production employed advanced matte painting techniques for the South Seas backgrounds. The film featured some of the most sophisticated makeup techniques of the era, particularly for Garbo's close-ups. The underwater sequences were filmed using specially designed waterproof camera housings, which were innovative for the time.

Music

The film featured a synchronized musical score composed by William Axt, using the Movietone system. The score included original compositions and popular songs of the era, with the title song 'The Single Standard' becoming a hit. The music was carefully synchronized to enhance emotional moments, with romantic themes for Arden and Packy's scenes and more dramatic motifs for conflict sequences. The soundtrack also included sound effects for the ocean scenes and crowd noises in the society sequences.

Memorable Scenes

• The opening society ball where Arden rejects her conventional suitor and meets Packy for the first time
• The passionate beach scene in the South Seas where Arden and Packy declare their love
• The climactic confrontation where Arden must choose between her freedom and Packy's artistic ambitions
• The final scene where Arden returns to society, changed by her experiences

What Critics Said

Contemporary critics praised the film's emotional depth and Garbo's performance, with Variety calling it 'a powerful drama of modern life' and highlighting Garbo's 'magnificent portrayal of complex emotions.' The New York Times noted the film's 'adult treatment of modern problems' and praised its visual beauty. Modern critics view the film as an exemplary late silent melodrama, with particular appreciation for its mature themes and Garbo's nuanced performance. Film historians consider it one of the most sophisticated romantic dramas of the silent era, noting its progressive attitude toward female sexuality and independence.

What Audiences Thought

The film was a commercial success, grossing over $1 million domestically despite being released during the chaotic transition to sound. Audiences were particularly drawn to Garbo's performance and the film's exotic South Seas sequences. The film's themes of romantic freedom and social rebellion resonated strongly with 1920s audiences, especially young women seeking alternatives to traditional roles. Contemporary reports indicate that the film played to packed houses in major cities and maintained strong runs well into 1930, proving that quality silent films could still compete with early talkies.

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