A novel by
Edna Ferber was the source for this Rod LaRocque vehicle. The story begins just before the outbreak of WWI, when Julia Gory (
Louise Dresser) wealthy widowed mother of hero Gideon Gory (LaRoque), marries socially prominent doctor Blagden (Cyril Chadwick). Interested only in Julia's money and connections, the doctor talks her out of returning to her provincial hometown, and in so doing destroys the budding romance between Gideon and his childhood sweetheart Mary (
Jobyna Ralston). During the Great War, Blagden thoroughly depletes Julia's bank account -- and breaks the old woman -- while Gideon is off fighting for his country. Penniless and disillusioned after the war, Gideon finds work as a gigolo in a seedy café, willing to forego his manhood and dignity for the sake of a quick buck. But at the last possible moment, he is saved from himself by the unexpected appearance of his beloved Mary, who has never forgotten him. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide