The new motion picture Party Wire is probably not going to be one of the milestones in Jean Arthur’s career. But it’s a very moving story about vicious gossips in a small town, turned into a beautiful film.
Rockridge’s central communication system is the local party wire. Who ever uses a telephone, must be aware of nosy listeners — this small town’s most effective way to spread out rumors.
One beautiful, sunny day, Matthew Putnam (Victor Jory) returns to his old hometown Rockridge and discovers, the funny little daughter of his old friend Will Oliver has grown up to a charming young lady.
Marge Oliver (Jean Arthur) and Matthew grow very fond of each other, but the town has different plans: Every mother of a marriageable daughter knows the young man is a millionaire….
In spite of nasty rumors and vicious intrigues, Marge and Matthew plan their secret marriage in Springfield. But they have no idea how mean the users of Rockridge’s party wire can be….
This time miss Arthur really plays the leading part, and once more she is touchingly convincing. Her character Marge has reasons enough to spill desperate tears, but after all the moviegoer will leave smiling happily.
Clarissa Smith — April 27, 1935
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