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Movie Info & Details
Release Year1934
Runtime1h 00m
LanguageEnglish
CertificationNR
GenresDrama
Votes1
DirectorGeorge Melford
WritersAlma Sioux Scarberry
TypeFeature Film
Rating8.0 out of 10
Cast7 credited
Also Known AsHired Wife
About Hired Wife
Kent Johns learns that he must be married within a certain timeframe to collect a significant fortune left by his late grandfather. Kent originally plans to marry his girlfriend, "Dovie" Jansen, but she calls off their wedding to marry a European count instead. Needing a wife quickly, Kent proposes a business-like marriage to Vivian "Vi" Matthews (Greta Nissen), his next-door neighbor who has long harbored feelings for him. The contract stipulates that after one year, they will divorce, and Vi will receive a $100,000 settlement. Encouraged by her friend Pat, Vi accepts the offer. During their honeymoon in New York City, Vi undergoes a physical transformation—aided by her personal maid, Celeste—evolving from a plain "homely matron" into a sophisticated and beautiful woman. While Kent remains preoccupied with business and often neglects his new wife, his artist friend Philip Marlowe (James Kirkwood) becomes deeply attracted to the "new" Vi, creating a romantic rivalry.
Directed by George Melford, Hired Wife leans on a strong ensemble — Greta Nissen, Weldon Heyburn, James Kirkwood — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.
The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 1934.
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