Cast
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Vera Ralston
as Violet Barton
John Carroll
as Gregg Delaney
Walter Brennan
as Sheriff Bill Howard
Francis Lederer
as Henry Vaan
William Ching
as John Beauregard Hale
Maria Palmer
as Janet Barton
Jane Darwell
as Molly Hale
Roy Barcroft
as Deputy Gerard
Paul Fix
as Deputy Williams
Esther Dale
as Aunt May
Edward Norris
as Wilbur
Howland Chamberlain
as The Casino Manager
Norman Budd
as Carson - the Blackmailer
Nacho Galindo
as Gringo
Jeff York
as Canning
Crew
Director
- Allan Dwan
Producer
- Herbert J. Yates
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Surrender 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 Allan Dwan 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 1950, 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 Surrender took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 125 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 49 unique compositions.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1950, when this film was released:
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- 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 Surrender shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike I'll Be Your Killer This Morning, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Surrender offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like ExTerminators and The Reckoning explore similar territory, Surrender 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: September 15, 1950
- Runtime: 1h 30m
