Cast
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Kathryn Grayson
as Magnolia Hawks
Ava Gardner
as Julie LaVerne
Howard Keel
as Gaylord Ravenal
Joe E. Brown
as Cap'n Andy Hawks
Marge Champion
as Ellie May Shipley
Gower Champion
as Frank Schultz
Robert Sterling
as Steven Baker
Agnes Moorehead
as Parthy Hawks
Leif Erickson
as Pete
William Warfield
as Joe
Linda Christian
as Chorus Girl (uncredited)
Bess Flowers
as Racetrack spectator (uncredited)
Adele Jergens
as Cameo McQueen (uncredited)
Anna Q. Nilsson
as Seamstress (uncredited)
Bert Roach
as Drunk (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- George Sidney
Producer
- Arthur Freed
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Show Boat 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 George Sidney 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 1951, 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 Show Boat took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $2.3 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 107 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 146 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1465 individual shots.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 61 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1951, when this film was released:
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Show Boat shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, which focuses more on action than character development, Show Boat subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Lili Marleen and Amadeus explore similar territory, Show Boat stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: July 19, 1951
- Runtime: 1h 47m
- Budget: $2,300,000
- Revenue: $11,000,000
