In this sexually-charged pre-code film, Lily (Barbara Stanwyck) has been sexually exploited from a young age by her father. After his death, she seeks greater opportunities, and seduces her way into a job, sleeping with men to advance her career and for favors, and lacking remorse when she breaks up relationships and leads jealous men to murder and suicide. This film is a powerful portrayal of the affects desperate times (here, the Great Depression) and abuse can have on a young woman.