Cast
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Aline MacMahon
as Nurse Sarah Keate
Guy Kibbee
as Detective Lt. Lance O'Leary
Patricia Ellis
as March Federie, Richard's Granddaughter
Hobart Cavanaugh
as Eustace Federie
Dorothy Tree
as Mittie Federie
Robert Barrat
as Adolphe Federie
Helen Flint
as Isobel Federie - Adolphe's Wife
Lyle Talbot
as Ross Lonergan
Henry O'Neill
as Elihu Dimuck
Walter Walker
as Richard Federie
Allen Jenkins
as Police Sgt. Jim Jackson
Eddie Shubert
as Detective Muldoon
Russell Hicks
as Dr. Jay
Brandon Hurst
as Grondal - the Butler
Joseph E. Bernard
as 'Murph' Murphy - the Ballistics Expert (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Ray Enright
Reviews
CinemaSerf
Guy Kibbee ("O'Leary") and Aline MacMahon ("Nurse Sarah") are clearly having some fun in this amiably entertaining big house murder mystery. The story centres around a dying old millionaire who finds his grasping family assembling to see what they are going to get! When the butler is killed, everyone starts pointing fingers, and it falls to these two to, rarely in conjunction and frequently despite themselves, get to the bottom of things. It doesn't hang around, there is plenty of quick-witted dialogue and though the plot - there are twins involved, which is always a bit of a giveaway - is maybe not the most taxing, it does end quite quirkily and I rather enjoyed it.
Jun 19, 2022
Thematic Analysis
While the Patient Slept represents a fascinating example of Mystery 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 1935, 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 While the Patient Slept took approximately 31 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 66 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 116 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The musical score contains over 64 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1935, 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 While the Patient Slept shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Rashomon, which focuses more on action than character development, While the Patient Slept offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Rear Window and Silent Hill explore similar territory, While the Patient Slept stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 9, 1935
- Runtime: 1h 6m
