DOUGHNUTS AND SOCIETY

Cinemavixion Review

In "Doughnuts and Society," director Lewis D. Collins crafts a charming 1936 comedy that explores the dynamics of friendship and social mobility. Starring the effervescent Louise Fazenda as Kate Flannagan and Maude Eburne as Belle Dugan, the film centers on two feisty partners running a bustling coffee shop, whose days are filled with the simple pleasure of dispensing doughnuts and engaging in spirited, yet affectionate, banter. Their comfortable world is upended when Belle unexpectedly inherits a fortune, propelling her into high society and her daughter, Joan, into a debutante season. This sudden shift creates an unforeseen rift between the lifelong friends. Kate, proud and perhaps a bit stubborn, struggles to reconcile Belle's newfound wealth with their shared past, even as her own son, Jerry, finds himself falling for Joan. Fazenda and Eburne deliver delightful performances, embodying a friendship tested by changing fortunes. The film offers a gentle, nostalgic look at societal expectations and the enduring bonds of loyalty, making it a pleasant watch for those seeking a lighthearted cinematic escape from a bygone era. While not a grand spectacle, its warmth and character-driven narrative provide a satisfying experience, buoyed by the strong chemistry of its lead actresses.