Cast
View All
W.C. Fields
as T. Frothingill Bellows / S.B. Bellows
Martha Raye
as Martha Bellows
Dorothy Lamour
as Dorothy Wyndham
Bob Hope
as Buzz Fielding
Shirley Ross
as Cleo Fielding
Lynne Overman
as Scoop McPhail
Ben Blue
as Mike
Leif Erickson
as Bob Hayes
Rufe Davis
as Turnkey
Patricia Wilder
as Honey Chile
Grace Bradley
as Grace Fielding
Lionel Pape
as Lord Droopy
Virginia Vale
as Joan Fielding
Russell Hicks
as Capt. Stafford
Kirsten Flagstad
as Specialty: of the Metropolitan Opera Company
Crew
Director
- Mitchell Leisen
Producer
- Harlan Thompson
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
The Big Broadcast of 1938 represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Music/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 Mitchell Leisen 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 The Big Broadcast of 1938 took approximately 20 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $1.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 94 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 142 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 34 unique compositions.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1938, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- 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 Big Broadcast of 1938 shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Sawan Ko Aane Do, which focuses more on action than character development, The Big Broadcast of 1938 subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut and Schultze Gets the Blues explore similar territory, The Big Broadcast of 1938 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: February 11, 1938
- Runtime: 1h 34m
- Budget: $1,000,000
