The Common Law is a 1931 American Pre-Code romantic drama film, directed by Paul L. Stein and produced by Charles R. Rogers. Based on Robert W. Chambers' 1911 novel, this was the third time the book was made into a film, and the first during the talking film era. The sexual drama stars Constance Bennett and Joel McCrea in the title roles. It was received well both at the box office and by film critics, becoming one of RKO's most financially successful films of the year. The novel, The Common Law, had been filmed before in 1923 with Corinne Griffith starring.Synopsis
Valerie West is a young American ex-patriot living with her wealthy lover, Dick Carmedon, in Paris. Tired of the relationship, she moves out, after which she meets another American ex-pat, struggling artist John Neville. She begins modeling for Neville, including some racy nude sittings. At first the relationship is purely business, but the two soon fall in love, and she moves in with him. The two begin to live an idyllic life, despite Carmedon's attempts to get Valerie Back.
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