Cast
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Sally Eilers
as Elizabeth Thomas
Paul Kelly
as Jim Barnes
Larry J. Blake
as Larry Craine
Maurice Murphy
as Danny Thomas
Morgan Conway
as Inspector Donohue
David Oliver
as Detective Branch
Lucile Gleason
as 'Ma' Hutchins
Peggy Bermer
as Smitty
James Blaine
as Detective Saunders
Ralph Brooks
as Cab Driver
Howard Christie
as Larkin
Dora Clement
as Reception Clerk
Franco Corsaro
as Headwaiter (uncredited)
Hal K. Dawson
as Tommy Tucker
John Dawson
as Cab Driver
Crew
Director
- S. Sylvan Simon
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
The Nurse from Brooklyn represents a fascinating example of Crime/Adventure 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 S. Sylvan Simon 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 The Nurse from Brooklyn took approximately 34 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 65 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 100 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
- The costume department created over 390 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1938, when this film was released:
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- 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 Nurse from Brooklyn shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike King Kong, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Nurse from Brooklyn subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Lonely Hearts and I Woke Up Early the Day I Died explore similar territory, The Nurse from Brooklyn 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: April 29, 1938
- Runtime: 1h 5m
