Cast
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Eartha Kitt
as Eartha Kitt
Ronny Graham
as Ronny Graham
Robert Clary
as Robert Clary
Alice Ghostley
as Alice Ghostley
June Carroll
as June Carroll
Virginia Wilson
as Virginia de Luce Clayborn
Paul Lynde
as Paul Lynde
Bill Mullikin
as Bill Mullikin
Rosemary O'Reilly
as Rosemary O'Reilly
Allen Conroy
as Allen Conroy
Jimmy Russell
as Jimmy Russell
George Smiley
as George Smiley
Polly Ward
as Polly Ward
Carol Lawrence
as Carol Lawrence
Johnny Laverty
as Johnny Laverty
Crew
Director
- John Beal
- Harry Horner
Writer
- Luther Davis
- Ronny Graham
- Paul Lynde
- Mel Brooks
- John P. Cleveland
Producer
- Edward L. Alperson
- Berman Swarttz
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
New Faces represents a fascinating example of Music/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 John Beal 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 1954, 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 New Faces took approximately 23 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 65 unique compositions.
- The costume department created over 345 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1954, 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 New Faces shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Dream Kitchen, which focuses more on action than character development, New Faces subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Sweethearts and Wives and A Midsummer Night's Dream explore similar territory, New Faces 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 19, 1954
- Runtime: 1h 38m
Where to Watch
