Cast
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Joe E. Brown
as Happy Howard / Chuckles
Patricia Ellis
as Alice Madison
Dorothy Burgess
as Babe (aka Miss Mercedes)
Don Dillaway
as Jack
Harry Woods
as Ajax
Gordon Westcott
as Frank Madison
Ronnie Cosby
as Dickie Madison
Charles C. Wilson
as Sheldon
Ward Bond
as Spectator
Spencer Charters
as Kingsley
John Sheehan
as Moxley
Tom Dugan
as Mac (scenes deleted)
Earle Hodgins
as Circus Barker
Gordon Evans
as Undetermined Role
Ernest Clark
as Vaudeville Act
Crew
Director
- Ray Enright
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
The Circus Clown represents a fascinating example of Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Ray Enright 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1934, 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 Circus Clown took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 64 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 117 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1934, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Circus Clown shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Bingo: The King of the Mornings, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Circus Clown subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Well, Just You Wait! 12 and The Girl on the Bridge explore similar territory, The Circus Clown stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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 30, 1934
- Runtime: 1h 4m
