These Three (1936)

"These Three" (1936) presents a story of friendship and ambition amidst economic hardship. Karen and Martha, fresh out of college and broke, seize an opportunity when Karen inherits a dilapidated farmhouse. They envision transforming it into a school for girls, and with a little encouragement from the kind Dr. Joe Cardin, they take out a loan and begin to renovate. Success appears within their grasp, but their plans are threatened by a vindictive student who concocts a malicious scheme to exact revenge on the teachers, setting in motion a chain of events that could destroy everything they've built. Unlike its source material, "The Children's Hour," this film opts for a more hopeful conclusion and steers clear of the original's controversial themes, instead focusing on the dynamics of a romantic love triangle. This film's inclusion on a "Best William Wyler Movies" list is fully warranted. William Wyler was a master of cinematic storytelling, and "These Three" showcases his talent for crafting compelling narratives with nuanced characters and strong performances. Wyler excels in directing actors, evident in the strong portrayals of the leads and the complex emotions they convey. Moreover, his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to build suspense and atmosphere are also clearly on display, even within the constraints of the Production Code. His skillful direction transforms a potentially melodramatic plot into a well-crafted and engaging film, further solidifying his reputation as a director of exceptional talent.