Cast
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Nino Martini
as Nino Maretti
Joan Fontaine
as Jean Clemens
Alan Mowbray
as Leon Rodowsky
Billy Gilbert
as Krause
Alan Hale
as Detective Flugelman
Grant Mitchell
as District Attorney Ernest Robinson
Erik Rhodes
as Spaghetti Nadzio
Lee Patrick
as Nora Burns
Frank Conroy
as Morton Harding
Bradley Page
as Rollins
George Shelley
as Mr. Barret
Jack Carson
as Assistant Director
Romo Vincent
as Gas Truck Driver
Ward Bond
as Violets (Uncredited)
Ada Leonard
as Ms. Goodwin (Uncredited)
Crew
Director
- John G. Blystone
Producer
- Jesse L. Lasky
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Music for Madame represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Romance 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 John G. Blystone 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 1937, 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 Music for Madame took approximately 35 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 126 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
- The musical score contains over 43 unique compositions.
- The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1937, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- 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 Music for Madame shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Snookles, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Music for Madame subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Resort to Love and Intact explore similar territory, Music for Madame 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: October 8, 1937
- Runtime: 1h 21m
