Smart Blonde

Smart Blonde is a 1937 American crime film directed by Frank McDonald and starring Glenda Farrell and Barton MacLane. The film is notable for being the first in a series of films featuring the character Torchy Blane, a fast-talking female reporter.

Plot[edit | edit source]

The story follows Torchy Blane, a sharp and resourceful newspaper reporter, who is determined to uncover the truth behind a series of crimes. With her quick wit and fearless attitude, Torchy navigates the dangerous world of crime and corruption, often outsmarting both the criminals and the police.

Cast[edit | edit source]

Glenda Farrell as Torchy Blane
Barton MacLane as Detective Steve McBride
Wini Shaw as Dolly Ireland
Addison Richards as Fitz Mularkey
Robert Paige as Tom Carney

Production[edit | edit source]

The film was produced by Warner Bros. and is based on the character created by Frederick Nebel. The success of Smart Blonde led to a series of nine films featuring Torchy Blane, with Glenda Farrell reprising her role in several of them.

Reception[edit | edit source]

Smart Blonde was well-received by audiences and critics alike for its fast-paced plot and the strong performance by Glenda Farrell. The film's success helped to establish the Torchy Blane series as a popular franchise during the late 1930s.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

The character of Torchy Blane is considered a precursor to later female reporters in film and television. Her portrayal as a competent and independent woman was groundbreaking for the time and has influenced many subsequent characters in the genre.