A Notorious Affair is a 1930 American pre-Code drama film, produced and released by First National Pictures.

It was directed by Lloyd Bacon, starred Billie Dove, and featured Basil Rathbone and Kay Francis.

Lady Patricia (Billie Dove), a London socialite engaged to another aristocrat, shocks her father and social class by marrying the poor Italian violinist Paul Gherardi (Basil Rathbone).

Countess Olga Balakireff (Kay Francis), a vamp who likes to fool around with men below her station, takes an interest in Gherardi, as well.

Unbeknownst to Patricia, Balakireff uses her influence to make Paul famous and, in return, ensnares him in an affair.

While Dr. Pomeroy ardently courts Patricia, Paul cohabits with Balakireff in the South of France, until she has had her fun and leaves him.

Leonard Maltin gives the film two out of four stars, commenting, “ Plush production can't save this stagy soap opera.”[3] Although Billie Dove was supposed to be the star, The New York Times reported that in spite of “lending a decorative presence, her speeches pale beside a performance of one so expert as Mr. Rathbone.