Cast
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Warner Baxter
as Jean Deucalion
Myrna Loy
as Eleanore
Noah Beery
as Thurman Machwurth
Gregory Gaye
as Dmitri Vologuine
George Cooper
as Harry A. Biloxi
Bela Lugosi
as The Marabout - Sheik Muhammed Halid
C. Henry Gordon
as Captain Mordiconi
Noah Beery Jr.
as Young Legionnaire (uncredited)
Maurice Black
as Cafe Manager (uncredited)
Colin Chase
as Sergeant Major Olson (uncredited)
Edwards Davis
as French Ambassador (uncredited)
Claire Du Brey
as Eleanore's Maid (uncredited)
Noble Johnson
as Youssef (uncredited)
Victor Jory
as Officer Belonge (uncredited)
Fred Kohler Jr.
as Young Legionnaire (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Victor Fleming
Writer
- Jules Furthman
Producer
- Victor Fleming
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Adventure film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Renegades distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Victor Fleming 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 1930, 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 Renegades took approximately 28 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 84 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 108 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1733 individual shots.
- The screenplay went through 10 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1930, when this film was released:
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Renegades shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Tabu: A Story of the South Seas, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Renegades subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Kismet and Under a Texas Moon explore similar territory, Renegades 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: October 26, 1930
- Runtime: 1h 24m
