Joan Crawford's Letty Lynton Returns After 90 Years

Joan Crawford's 1932 film *Letty Lynton*, a significant yet contentious entry in Hollywood's golden age, is set to screen legally for the first time in 90 years. The film, which tells the story of a Manhattan socialite entangled in a lethal love triangle, was withdrawn from circulation in 1937 following a plagiarism lawsuit from playwrights Edward Sheldon and Margaret Ayer Barnes. The film's provocative themes, including murder and betrayal, initially perplexed critics and audiences alike, raising questions about how MGM managed to navigate the stringent Hays Code censorship of the time.

The Guardian

*Letty Lynton* was adapted from Marie Belloc Lowndes' novel, which itself was inspired by the real-life case of Madeleine Smith, a Scottish socialite accused of poisoning her lover in 1857. MGM's decision to produce the film came after they abandoned plans to adapt Sheldon and Barnes' *Dishonored Lady*, which had been deemed unsuitable for film due to its explicit content. Instead, they acquired *Letty Lynton* for a fraction of the original asking price, setting the stage for a film that would become both a commercial success and a source of legal controversy.

The Guardian

Joan Crawford starred in the titular role, relishing the opportunity to portray a complex character. Directed by Clarence Brown, who had previously collaborated with Crawford on other projects, the film featured notable performances from Robert Montgomery and Nils Asther. Despite Crawford's mixed feelings about her leading man, her chemistry with Asther contributed to the film's memorable scenes, including a notorious moment where her character watches her ex-lover drink poisoned champagne.

The Guardian

Despite its withdrawal from theaters, *Letty Lynton* left a lasting impact on fashion. The film's art deco aesthetic and Crawford's iconic white organdy dress, designed by Adrian, sparked a trend that permeated the fashion world. British Vogue noted the widespread demand for similar styles, leading to a surge in sales of dresses inspired by Crawford's character. Costume designer Edith Head later recognized the dress as cinema's most significant fashion influence.

The Guardian

The revival of *Letty Lynton* is attributed to the efforts of Crawford's grandson, Casey LaLonde, who announced the film's restoration on social media. He expressed gratitude to Warner Bros and its library historian George Feltenstein for facilitating the film's return. LaLonde emphasized the importance of the film's legal screening at the TCM film festival in Los Angeles and its upcoming release on Blu-ray and DVD.

The Guardian

The film's first legal screening will take place at the TCM film festival, marking a significant moment for fans of classic cinema. With the expiration of the copyright on the original play, *Letty Lynton* is poised to re-enter the public consciousness, allowing new audiences to engage with this historically significant work.

The Guardian

• “I have been keeping this secret for months, so it is wonderful to share the news with Joan fans around the world.” — Casey LaLonde, Grandson of Joan Crawford

The Guardian

• “There’s a lot of bitch in every woman – a lot in every man.” — Joan Crawford

The Guardian

The return of *Letty Lynton* not only revives a piece of cinematic history but also invites reflection on the evolving standards of film and the enduring legacy of Joan Crawford.

The Guardian