The Scarlet Letter (1934) | Directed by Robert G. Vignola

This 1934 adaptation of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s classic 1850 novel tells the story of Hester Prynne, a woman in Puritan New England who bears an illegitimate child and is condemned by her community to wear a scarlet letter "A" as a symbol of her adultery. The film follows her struggle for dignity and redemption amid the oppressive moral codes of the time.

Genre: Drama / Romance

Director: Robert G. Vignola

Robert G. Vignola (1882–1953) was an Italian-born American film director, actor, and screenwriter who began his career in the silent era. He directed numerous films for major studios such as Paramount and Warner Bros., often focusing on romantic and historical dramas. Known for his craftsmanship and sensitivity to literary adaptations, Vignola’s work spanned over three decades in the industry.

Star Cast:

Colleen Moore as Hester Prynne

Hardie Albright as Arthur Dimmesdale

Alan Hale as Bartholomew Hockings

William Farnum as Governor Bellingham

Virginia Howell as Mistress Hibbins

Henry B. Walthall as Roger Chillingworth

The 1934 version of The Scarlet Letter received mixed to positive reviews upon its release. Audiences appreciated Colleen Moore’s emotional and restrained performance in a role that contrasted sharply with her earlier flapper characters from the silent era. Critics noted the film’s somber tone and moral weight, though some found it lacking in the raw power of Victor Sjöström’s 1926 silent adaptation starring Lillian Gish. Nonetheless, it was respected for its fidelity to the novel and its attempt to address moral hypocrisy in a conservative Hollywood environment.

Fun Facts:

The film marked Colleen Moore’s final screen appearance before retiring from acting.

MGM had previously released a more famous 1926 silent version, and comparisons between the two were inevitable.

The 1934 adaptation was made during a transitional period before the strict enforcement of the Hays Code, allowing for slightly more mature themes than later films would permit.

Robert G. Vignola had directed Colleen Moore in several earlier films, and she specifically requested him for this project.

Because of its subject matter, promotional materials for the film were carefully worded to avoid controversy with religious groups.

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