Cast
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William Powell
as Emery Slade
Mark Stevens
as Bill Davis
Betsy Drake
as Julie Clarke
Adolphe Menjou
as Melville Crossman
Randy Stuart
as Rosalie Brooks
Lloyd Corrigan
as John Barker
Hope Emerson
as Mrs. Schlaghammer
Walter Catlett
as Joe Brooks
Don Beddoe
as Barney Bassett
Jean Hersholt
as Jean Hersholt
Bill Shirley
as Singer of Title Song Over Opening Credits
Robert Adler
as Studio Gate Guard
Erville Alderson
as Emery's Neighbor
Louis Bacigalupi
as Masseur
Joe Bautista
as Filipino Man
Crew
Director
- Irving Reis
Producer
- George Jessel
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Dancing in the Dark represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Romance 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 Irving Reis 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 1949, 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 Dancing in the Dark took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 92 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 130 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 2046 individual shots.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1949, 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 Dancing in the Dark shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Om Shanti Om, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Dancing in the Dark offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Meet the Feebles and Fontána pre Zuzanu 2 explore similar territory, Dancing in the Dark 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: December 2, 1949
- Runtime: 1h 32m
