Envy (1930)

A short early-talkie drama from Warner Bros. exploring restlessness, desire, and the temptation of swapping partners for a night.

Envy - Movie Information

  • Original Title: Envy
  • Release Year: 1930
  • Directed by: Arthur Hurley
  • Type: Movie
  • Genres: Drama, Romance
  • Runtime: 9m
  • Original Language: English
  • Spoken Languages: English
  • Release Date (Theatrical): December 1, 1930 (United States)
  • Alternative Titles: Vitaphone Varieties (1930-1931 Season): Envy (US)
  • Production Companies: Warner Bros. Pictures, The Vitaphone Corporation
  • Production Countries: United States of America

Envy - Plot

Two bored couples think they can find happiness if they exchange spouses for the evening.

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Envy - Cast & Crew

Director(s)

  • Arthur Hurley

Main Cast

  • Madge Evans
  • Eric Dressler
  • Romney Brent

Writers

  • Geoffrey Kerry

Envy - FAQs

What is Envy (1930) about?

Envy is a short 1930 drama in which two restless, bored couples convince themselves that swapping partners for an evening will reignite their happiness. The film explores themes of desire, dissatisfaction, and the grass-is-greener illusion within romantic relationships.

Who are the main actors in Envy (1930)?

The film stars Madge Evans as Helen, Eric Dressler as Jimmy, and Romney Brent as George Parker. Madge Evans was a prominent actress of the early sound era, known for her work in both stage productions and Hollywood films of the 1930s.

Who directed Envy (1930)?

Envy was directed by Arthur Hurley. The film was produced under the Vitaphone banner, a subsidiary of Warner Bros. Pictures that was particularly active in producing short sound films during the late 1920s and early 1930s.

When was Envy released in the United States?

Envy was released in the United States on December 1, 1930. It was distributed as part of the Vitaphone Varieties 1930–1931 season, a series of short theatrical films produced by Warner Bros. and The Vitaphone Corporation.

How long is the film Envy (1930)?

Envy has a runtime of approximately 9 minutes, making it a short film. It was typical of the Vitaphone Varieties format, which presented brief dramatic or comedic vignettes designed to accompany feature-length presentations in movie theaters of the era.

What genre is Envy (1930)?

Envy is classified as a Drama and Romance. The short film blends romantic tension with a dramatic premise, examining how envy and restlessness can lead couples to make impulsive decisions in search of excitement or emotional fulfillment.

What are similar movies to Envy (1930)?

Films with similar themes of couple swapping and relationship dynamics include Mixed Doubles (2006), The Big Swap (1998), Marriage Retreat (2011), Sister Swapping (2023), and Metamorphosis (2022). These films similarly explore the consequences of partners seeking novelty outside their relationships.

Who produced Envy (1930) and what studio made it?

Envy was produced by Warner Bros. Pictures and The Vitaphone Corporation. Vitaphone was Warner Bros.' short-film production unit, responsible for hundreds of brief sound films in the early talkie era. The screenplay was written by Geoffrey Kerry.

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