Cast
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Charles Farrell
as Capt. Robert Lawrence
Julie Bishop
as Barbara Fiske
Hugh Sothern
as Doctor Harlan Fiske
Alexander D'Arcy
as Perez
Jason Robards Sr.
as Muller
Charles D. Brown
as Major Loy
Addison Richards
as Colonel King
Frederick Burton
as General Darrow
Selmer Jackson
as Jules Peabody
Reed Howes
as Roy Curran
James Millican
as Pilot
Vernon Steele
as Officer
Crew
Director
- Charles C. Coleman
Writer
- Michael L. Simmons
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a science fiction narrative, Flight to Fame explores potential technological and societal futures, raising important questions about humanity's place in the universe and our evolutionary trajectory. The film stands apart from other sci-fi works by presenting a vision that is both thought-provoking and visually distinctive.
Director Charles C. Coleman 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 1938, 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 Flight to Fame took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 67 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 96 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1938, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
Details
- Release Date: October 12, 1938
- Runtime: 1h 7m