Hosts Debbie and Janna discuss the 1933 pre-Code film Baby Face, directed by Alfred Green and starring Barbara Stanwyck with George Brent, Teresa Harris, and an early appearance by John Wayne.

They explain that pre-Code movies explored topics later censored by the Motion Picture Production Code and summarize the plot as an out-of-town woman who rises in a New York bank by using men and sex. Their debate centers on whether Stanwyck’s character is primarily intelligent and seeking opportunity or mainly motivated by money and luxury, with discussion of her abusive upbringing, mentorship that urged her to use men, and bringing along Harris’s character.

They note key scenes, Brent’s suicide and indictment amid a failing bank, and the character’s decision to give Brent money because she loved him. They invite viewers to comment and subscribe.

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00:00 Intro and Setup

00:41 Pre Code Context

01:15 Plot in a Nutshell

02:23 Back for Discussion

02:48 Brains or Body Debate

04:07 Mentor and Hard Origins

11:56 Stanwyck Spotlight

13:51 Love Money and Ending

16:12 Modern Parallels

18:56 Favorite Scenes

22:32 John Wayne Cameo

23:58 Wrap Up and Subscribe