Louise Brooks
Warner Bros. Publicity Photograph for GOD'S GIFT TO WOMEN
January 1931 · Hollywood, California

Judging by Louise's expression, one would be surprised to learn GOD'S GIFT TO WOMEN was a comedy. Despite a rather small role, Warner Brothers promoted Brooks generously with many stunning publicity photos such as this one. However, the change in coiffure and her melancholy countenance underscore a downturn in Louise's professional career. Declining William Wellman's offer for the role of Gwen in THE PUBLIC ENEMY shortly after making GOD'S GIFT, Louise would perform her most dramatic act of "snatching obscurity from the jaws of fame," as biographer Barry Paris fittingly described it.