Cast
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John Gilbert
as Jack
Wallace Beery
as Tripod
Jim Tully
as Ginger
Leila Hyams
as Joan
Polly Moran
as Polly
Doris Lloyd
as Flossy
Robert Adair
as Seaman Collecting Pay
Alice Belcher
as London Wharf Floozie
Daisy Belmore
as Canadian Queen Passenger
Herbert Evans
as Ship's Officer
John George
as (uncredited)
Tiny Jones
as Pub Customer
Sôjin Kamiyama
as Singapore Brothel Proprietor
Lena Malena
as Singapore Party Girl
Ray Milland
as Ship's Officer
Crew
Director
- Sam Wood
Writer
- W.L. River
- Laurence Stallings
Producer
- Irving Thalberg
- Sam Wood
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Way for a Sailor 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 Sam Wood 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 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 Way for a Sailor took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 85 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
- The costume department created over 287 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The film contains approximately 1230 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1930, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- 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 Way for a Sailor shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Uncommon Valor, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Way for a Sailor subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Once a Lady and Paris Bound explore similar territory, Way for a Sailor stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: November 1, 1930
- Runtime: 1h 25m
