Cast
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Lucile Gleason
as Officer Augusta Winthrop
Richard 'Skeets' Gallagher
as Anthony Desmond
Lona Andre
as Peggy
Warren Hymer
as John, a Sailor
Barbara Weeks
as Mary Sloan
Ruth Clifford
as Kate
Laura Treadwell
as Mrs. Eleanor Worthington
Jason Robards Sr.
as Big Bill Lewis
Dick Elliott
as Tom Brady
Erin LaBissomiere
as Gladys
Julie Kingdon
as Norma
Joyce Coad
as Evelyn
Ernie Adams
as Henchman
Eddie Phillips
as Jack
Crew
Director
- William J. Cowen
Producer
- Ken Goldsmith
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Woman Unafraid 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 William J. Cowen 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 1934, 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 Woman Unafraid took approximately 31 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 68 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 107 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 6 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 2469 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1934, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- 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 Woman Unafraid shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Funeral, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Woman Unafraid offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Gomorrah and Lorna's Silence explore similar territory, Woman Unafraid 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: March 27, 1934
- Runtime: 1h 8m
