Search For Beauty (1934)

Two con artists (Robert Armstrong, Gertrude Michael) fresh out of prison join forces with a third (James Gleason) using an exercise and health magazine as a front for more nefarious activities. To this end, they lure two Olympic swimming champions (Ida Lupino, Buster Crabbe) to front for them. Based on a play by Schuyler E. Grey and Paul Milton and directed by Erle C. Kenton, this pre-code film isn't as saucy as some. Some bouncing braless bosoms, male nudity and a handful of double entendres. Lupino hadn't quite defined her persona yet but she's a spirited ingenue though Crabbe is hopelessly wooden but then I don't think he was hired for his acting. There's an international "search for beauty" health contest for the best specimens that is kind of creepy as everyone is distinctly Aryan in their look (nary a Spaniard or Italian in the bunch). There's a major production number with all the specimens marching and exercising while patriotic music plays and I couldn't help but be reminded of Leni Riefenstahl's TRIUMPH OF THE WILL. With Toby Wing and Bradley Page.