Cast
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Nova Pilbeam
as Erica Burgoyne
Derrick De Marney
as Robert Tisdall
Percy Marmont
as Col. Burgoyne
Edward Rigby
as Old Will
Mary Clare
as Erica's Aunt Margaret
John Longden
as Det. Insp. Kent
George Curzon
as Guy
Basil Radford
as Erica's Uncle Basil
Pamela Carme
as Christine Clay
George Merritt
as Det. Sgt. Miller
J.H. Roberts
as Solicitor Henry Briggs
Jerry Verno
as Lorry Driver
H.F. Maltby
as Police Sergeant
John Miller
as Police Constable
Pat Fitzpatrick
as Harold a Little Boy at Birthday Party (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Alfred Hitchcock
Producer
- Edward Black
Reviews
CinemaSerf
Now here's a question - whatever did happen to Nova Pilbeam? She is really good in this gentle little romantic thriller from Alfred Hitchcock. A film star is murdered by her estranged husband after he gets fed up with all her affairs. Her body is found on the beach by one of her beaux "Robert Tisdall" (Derrick de Marney). He goes to fetch the police but is seen running from the crime and soon it is he that the police are searching for. It's at this point that it all gets a little too slapstick; he is caught; then lots of mix-ups and police incompetence before he eventually embarks on a mission to prove his innocence with the help of the aforementioned 18-year-old Pilbeam. It's not one of Hitchcock's better films but is suspenseful and tense enough at times - if somewhat let down by the ending - enough to pass 80 minutes, at any rate.
Jun 20, 2022
Thematic Analysis
Young and Innocent represents a fascinating example of Thriller/Romance/Mystery 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 Alfred Hitchcock 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 1937, 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 Young and Innocent took approximately 26 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 83 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 104 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The film contains approximately 2491 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1937, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- 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 Young and Innocent shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike 2001: A Space Odyssey, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Young and Innocent subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like War of the Worlds and Memento explore similar territory, Young and Innocent 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: November 1, 1937
- Runtime: 1h 23m
Where to Watch
