Style is everything in Desire, a sophisticated, elegant little jewel of a film. Directed by Frank Borzage with a light touch that brings to mind the work of its producer, Ernst Lubitsch, Desire's story is thin and often predictable, but it's told with such assurance and delight (as well as more than its fair share of witty repartee) that the flaws in the screenplay are easily forgiven. Borzage knows just how to treat this material, emphasizing the opportunities it allows his stars and building upon the chemistry that they generate -- which is considerable. Gary Cooper brings his unique brand of American innocence to the role but displays a deft touch with both the comedy and the romance, demonstrating that in the right role and with the right director he could play sophisticated comedy as well as anyone. Marlene Dietrich, looking stunning in her Travis Banton outfits, delivers a sterling performance, full of sensuality, innuendo, and amusement. Keeping step with the stars in large supporting roles are a suave John Halliday and an unwitting Alan Mowbray, and Zeffie Tilbury impresses in the small part of Aunt Olga. Desire is a charming, if slight, little film that's a "must see" for fans of its stars.
