Cast
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Phillip Huston
as Clark Jenkins
June Travis
as Margaret Anthony
James Gleason
as George Scott
Bruce Cabot
as Cal Calhoun
Andy Devine
as Pop Andrews
Guinn "Big Boy" Williams
as Pete Jenkins
John Arledge
as Spike Adams
C. Henry Gordon
as Brad Anthony
Ward Bond
as Gambler
Dick Elliott
as Lowell
Billy Gilbert
as Fisher
Barbara Pepper
as Lois
Jack Adair
as Charlie - Kidnap Henchman Answering Door
Wade Boteler
as Kidnap Henchman
Harry Bowen
as Gambler Betting $500
Crew
Director
- George Nichols Jr.
- Edward Killy
Producer
- Pandro S. Berman
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Big Game 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 George Nichols Jr. 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 1936, 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 The Big Game took approximately 15 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 74 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 97 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1521 individual shots.
- The costume department created over 374 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1936, 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 The Big Game shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike He Got Game, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Big Game offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Jerry Maguire and Gridiron Gang explore similar territory, The Big Game stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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 9, 1936
- Runtime: 1h 14m
