Cast
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Richard Arlen
as Lt. Harry Faversham
Fay Wray
as Ethne Eustace
Clive Brook
as Lt. Jack Durrance
William Powell
as Capt. William Trench
Theodore von Eltz
as Lt. Castleton
Noah Beery
as Slave Trader
Zack Williams
as Idris
Noble Johnson
as Ahmed
Harold Hightower
as Ali
Philippe De Lacy
as Harry Faversham - age 10
E.J. Ratcliffe
as Col. Eustace
George Fawcett
as Col. Faversham
Augustin Symonds
as Col. Sutch
Rex Ingram
as Fuzzy Wuzzy Native
Crew
Director
- Ernest B. Schoedsack
- Lothar Mendes
- Merian C. Cooper
Producer
- Ernest B. Schoedsack
- Merian C. Cooper
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Four Feathers 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 Ernest B. Schoedsack 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 1929, 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 The Four Feathers took approximately 32 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 81 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 113 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 51 unique compositions.
- The film contains approximately 2106 individual shots.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1929, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- 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 The Four Feathers shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Four Feathers offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Lawrence of Arabia and Paths of Glory explore similar territory, The Four Feathers 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: June 1, 1929
- Runtime: 1h 21m
