Cast
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Walter Huston
as Hon. Judson Hammond - The President of the United States
Karen Morley
as Pendola Molloy
Franchot Tone
as Hartley Beekman - Secretary to the President
Arthur Byron
as Jasper Brooks - Secretary of State
Dickie Moore
as Jimmy Vetter
C. Henry Gordon
as Nick Diamond
David Landau
as John Bronson
Samuel S. Hinds
as Dr. H.L. Eastman
William Pawley
as Borell
Jean Parker
as Alice Bronson
Claire Du Brey
as Nurse
B.F. Blinn
as Politician (uncredited)
Oscar Apfel
as German Delegate to Debt Conference (uncredited)
Mischa Auer
as Mr. Thieson (uncredited)
Brooks Benedict
as White House Press Correspondent (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Gregory La Cava
Producer
- William Randolph Hearst
- Walter Wanger
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Gabriel Over the White House examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Gregory La Cava brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1933, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Gabriel Over the White House took approximately 32 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 86 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 142 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 946 individual shots.
- The costume department created over 165 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1933, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Gabriel Over the White House shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Shanghai Express, which focuses more on action than character development, Gabriel Over the White House offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Scarface and Tabu: A Story of the South Seas explore similar territory, Gabriel Over the White House stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 31, 1933
- Runtime: 1h 26m
