Cast
View All
Jeanette MacDonald
as Nina Maria
Allan Jones
as Don Diego
Warren William
as Major de Rouchemont
Billy Gilbert
as Innkeeper
Henry Daniell
as General Savary
Douglass Dumbrille
as Marquis de Melito
Leonard Penn
as Etienne
Tom Rutherford
as King Ferdinard
Belle Mitchell
as Lola
George Zucco
as Secret Service Chief
Corbet Morris
as Duval
Matthew Boulton
as Wellington
Stanley Price
as Joseph Bonaparte (uncredited)
Ian Wolfe
as Izquierdo (uncredited)
Brandon Hurst
as English General (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Robert Z. Leonard
Producer
- Hunt Stromberg
- Robert Z. Leonard
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Firefly 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 Robert Z. Leonard 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 1937, 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 Firefly took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 131 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 157 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 9 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The musical score contains over 64 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1937, 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 The Firefly shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Broken Threads, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Firefly offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Quills and The Adventures of Robin Hood explore similar territory, The Firefly stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: November 5, 1937
- Runtime: 2h 11m
