Unashamed (DVD), Warner Archives, Drama

Helen Twelvetrees and Robert Young play a pair of siblings caught up in an honor killing in this eyebrow-raising pre-Code courtroom drama. Young Dick Ogden (Young) will do anything to protect his older sister, Joan (Twelvetrees). Unfortunately, Joan's judgment in men is lacking. Wooed by shiftless polo player Harry Swift (Monroe Owsley), who's only after her wealth, she's enticed into spending the night with Harry in a hotel. Having compromised Joan, Harry attempts to force her to the altar with the threat of scandal and shame. Dick has other ideas, and the two formerly inseparable siblings now face off from opposing sides in a murder trial. Dick faces an appointment with the electric chair, and Joan must face her own ruination if he is to be saved. Also starring MGM stalwarts Jean Hersholt and Lewis Stone.