Cast
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William Gargan
as Marcus 'Mark' Farrell
Joy Hodges
as Gale Rodgers
Andy Devine
as 'Snoop' Lewis
Ruth Donnelly
as Grumpy
Samuel S. Hinds
as Alan Lemke
Frances Robinson
as June Reese
Florence Roberts
as Mrs. J. J. Farrell
Kay Linaker
as Flo Sampson
Matty Fain
as 'Slim' Logan
Selmer Jackson
as Blackmere
Louise Stanley
as Dixie Green
Jack Carr
as Jack Murphy
John Frazer
as Radio Announcer
Jack Gardner
as
William George
as
Crew
Director
- Otis Garrett
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Personal Secretary represents a fascinating example of Comedy 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 Otis Garrett 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 Personal Secretary took approximately 23 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 71 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 131 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 69 unique compositions.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1938, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and 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 Personal Secretary shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike La Dolce Vita, which focuses more on action than character development, Personal Secretary subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Scoop and It Happened Tomorrow explore similar territory, Personal Secretary stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: September 9, 1938
- Runtime: 1h 11m
