Cast
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C. V. France
as Mr. Hillcrist
Helen Haye
as Mrs. Hillcrist
Jill Esmond
as Jill Hillcrist
Edmund Gwenn
as Mr. Hornblower
John Longden
as Charles Hornblower
Phyllis Konstam
as Chloe Hornblower
Frank Lawton
as Rolf Hornblower
Edward Chapman
as Dawker
Dora Gregory
as Mrs. Jackman
George Bancroft
as Second Stranger
R.E. Jeffrey
as First Stranger
Herbert Ross
as Mr. Jackman
Ronald Frankau
as Auctioneer
Rodney Ackland
as Man at Auction (uncredited)
Ivor Barnard
as Man at Auction (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Alfred Hitchcock
Producer
- John Maxwell
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Skin Game 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 Alfred Hitchcock 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 The Skin Game took approximately 21 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 82 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 142 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 6 months to complete.
- The costume department created over 280 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1931, 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 Skin Game 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 Silence of the Lambs, which focuses more on action than character development, The Skin Game offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Apartment and High Noon explore similar territory, The Skin Game 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: February 26, 1931
- Runtime: 1h 22m
