Cast
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Edward G. Robinson
as Joseph W. Randall
Marian Marsh
as Jenny Townsend
H.B. Warner
as Michael Townsend
Anthony Bushell
as Phillip Weeks
George E. Stone
as Ziggie Feinstein
Frances Starr
as Nancy (Voorhees) Townsend
Ona Munson
as Kitty Carmody
Boris Karloff
as T. Vernon Isopod
Aline MacMahon
as Miss Taylor
Oscar Apfel
as Bernard Hinchecliffe
Purnell Pratt
as Robert French
Robert Elliott
as R.J. Brannegan
Polly Walters
as Telephone Operator (uncredited)
James P. Burtis
as
Richard Carlyle
as
Crew
Director
- Mervyn LeRoy
Producer
- Hal B. Wallis
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Five Star Final 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 Mervyn LeRoy 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 1931, 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 Five Star Final took approximately 23 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $0.3 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 89 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 141 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The musical score contains over 53 unique compositions.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1931, when this film was released:
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- 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 Five Star Final shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Crime of Passion, which focuses more on action than character development, Five Star Final subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Jan Výrava and The First Year explore similar territory, Five Star Final 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: September 26, 1931
- Runtime: 1h 29m
- Budget: $310,000
- Revenue: $822,000
