This text sees the year 1932 as a turning-point for Josef von Sternberg, Paramount Pictures and for America. In 1930, Sternberg had brought Marlene Dietrich to Hollywood, following their success in Germany with The Blue Angel. Three films later, Sternberg was suffering a crisis in his career, Paramount desperately needed a hit, and the Depression had led to economic misery across America. Could Sternberg fashion a film which would consolidate his own career and confront the nation's problems? The result was Blond Venus. In this study, the author examines this key film, from the points of view of the director, studio and society.