Mandalay (1934)

Abandoned without a penny in the exotic heart of Rangoon, Burma, the Russian refugee Tanya Borisoff is left to fend for herself when her lover, Tony Evans, accepts a shadowy arms deal from the unscrupulous nightclub owner, Nick. In an attempt to manipulate Tanya into becoming his leading "hostess", Nick masterminds the deal, causing Tanya to reluctantly step into the notorious persona of "Spot White." However, her tumultuous affairs soon lead to her deportation by the police commissioner, a man she cleverly blackmails with memories of a past liaison, extorting 10,000 rupees to start anew. Under the guise of Marjorie Lang, she embarks on a journey to Mandalay, Burma, aboard the Irrawadi River steamer. Here, her path intertwines with the tormented Dr. Gregory Burton, an alcoholic seeking redemption by offering his services in a region struck by a fatal epidemic. As their connection deepens, they find solace in their shared desire to leave their pasts behind. However, the ghost of her past reappears in the form of Tony, who is also travelling on the steamer, trying to rekindle their love. When a message from Nick reveals Tony's imminent arrest, he cunningly fakes his suicide, leaving behind a trail of suspicion that points towards Tanya. Driven by their faith in Tanya, Dr. Burton and the first mate manage to convince the captain of Tony's self-inflicted demise, freeing her from the shackles of accusation. Tony, hidden in the boat's hold, reemerges, attempting to lure Tanya back into her former life by proposing they open a club in Mandalay. Resolute in her decision to abandon that life, Tanya's eyes wander over to the poison left in the cabin as Tony asks her to prepare him a drink, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats as they await her decision.

Mandalay is a drama movie featuring Kay Francis.

Mandalay is currently streaming on DIRECTV.