Cast
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Dolores del Río
as Lenore Dixon
George Sanders
as Del Forbes
June Lang
as Joyce Parker
Dick Baldwin
as Wally Burton
Ruth Terry
as Vera Dale
John Carradine
as Murdock
Keye Luke
as Dr. Wong
Harold Huber
as Joseph Lang
Leon Ames
as Monte Silver
Pedro de Cordoba
as Maurice Zabello
Vangie Beilby
as English Woman
Nora Cecil
as English Woman
Russ Clark
as Officer
Hal K. Dawson
as Master of Ceremonies
Dick Elliott
as Ocean Liner Passenger
Crew
Director
- Eugene Forde
Writer
- Lou Breslow
- John Patrick
Producer
- Sol M. Wurtzel
- Darryl F. Zanuck
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
International Settlement represents a fascinating example of Adventure cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Eugene Forde 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 1938, 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 International Settlement took approximately 13 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 75 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 118 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 412 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The film contains approximately 2110 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1938, 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 International Settlement shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, International Settlement subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Hector and the Search for Happiness and Spies Like Us explore similar territory, International Settlement 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: February 4, 1938
- Runtime: 1h 15m
