Home / Arts and Entertainment / 90 Years Later: Banned Joan Crawford Film Returns
90 Years Later: Banned Joan Crawford Film Returns
15 Apr
Summary
- Joan Crawford's controversial 1932 film 'Letty Lynton' is legally screened after 90 years.
- The film faced legal battles over plagiarism claims, leading to its removal from circulation.
- A famous dress from the film significantly influenced fashion trends in the 1930s.
Joan Crawford's controversial 1932 film, 'Letty Lynton,' will be legally screened for the first time in 90 years. The MGM drama, known for its risky themes, was pulled from circulation in January 1936 following plagiarism lawsuits. MGM had purchased the rights to 'Letty Lynton' for $3,500 after being deterred by the cost and censorship issues of a similar play.
Crawford embraced her role as a glamorous murderer, relishing the challenging script. The film's themes and Crawford's performance, particularly her dynamic with Nils Asther, caused considerable consternation for censors. The movie's success was undeniable, but its similarity to a play by Edward Sheldon and Margaret Ayer Barnes led to a protracted legal dispute.
Beyond its cinematic impact, 'Letty Lynton' revolutionized fashion. A white organdy dress designed by Adrian for Crawford, featuring oversized frilled sleeves, was widely replicated, causing a sensation in stores and popularizing the puffed sleeve trend. Costume designer Edith Head recognized it as cinema's biggest fashion influence.
Now, due to the efforts of Crawford's grandson, Casey LaLonde, and the expiration of copyright on December 31, 2025, the film has been legally cleared. Warner Bros. has restored the film in 4K, allowing for its premiere at the TCM film festival in Los Angeles and subsequent release on Blu-ray and DVD.
