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Week-End Pass

Week-End Pass (1944)

Feb 14, 1944 1h 5m Romance Crime Music

A run-away socialite "Babs" Bradley (Martha O'Driscoll), using an alias, wants to join the WACs, finds romance with a shipyard worker, Johnny Adams (Noah Beery Jr.), while dodging sheriffs, policemen and others who are searching for her.

Directed by Jean Yarbrough

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Jean Yarbrough

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Thematic Analysis

Week-End Pass represents a fascinating example of Romance/Crime/Music 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 Jean Yarbrough 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 1944, 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 Week-End Pass took approximately 4 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 95 minutes long.
  • The musical score contains over 75 unique compositions.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
  • The film contains approximately 1017 individual shots.

Historical Context

  • In 1944, when this film was released:
  • The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
  • Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

While Week-End Pass 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 Philadelphia Story, which focuses more on action than character development, Week-End Pass subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like It Happened One Night and The Deadly Look of Love explore similar territory, Week-End Pass 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: February 14, 1944
  • Runtime: 1h 5m