The Flame Within (1935)

In the glimmering world of the wealthy, a desperate attempt at suicide by the affluent Lillian Belton sets the stage for a gripping tale of love, betrayal, and self-discovery. Lillian's drastic act prompts her physician, Gordon Phillips, to enlist the help of the resolute psychiatrist Mary White. As Lillian's emotional turmoil unravels in Mary's office, a forbidden love story begins to take shape. Jack Kerry, a nonchalant alcoholic indifferent to Lillian's deep affection for him, emerges as the key to Lillian's distress. Mary, with her unwavering dedication to her patients, convinces Jack to overcome his addiction through a rehabilitation program. Despite numerous setbacks, Jack emerges from the depths of his alcoholism after eight long months, but with a newfound attachment — Mary. While Lillian and Jack find fleeting happiness in matrimony, Mary finds herself at the center of two men's affections — Jack's newfound love, and Gordon's persistent proposals. Mary, however, is torn between her affection for Jack and her devotion to her practice. The tension reaches a crescendo at a glamorous costume ball, where declarations of love are overshadowed by accusations of betrayal. Lillian's jealousy flares when Jack confesses his love for Mary, leading to threats of a scandal-ridden divorce. Amid the ensuing chaos, Mary is forced to navigate her complicated feelings for Jack, urging him to honor his marital commitment to Lillian, all the while reassessing her own relationship with Gordon. "The Flame Within" is a captivating exploration of the human heart, its desires, and the sacrifices it makes in the name of love and duty.

The Flame Within is a drama movie featuring Eily Malyon and directed by Edmund Goulding.

The Flame Within is currently streaming on DIRECTV.