Backdrop preview The Broken Gate backdrop
The Broken Gate

The Broken Gate

1927 1h 0.0/10 Drama

In the small farming community of Spring Valley, young Aurora Lane has caused a scandal by bearing a son by townsman Lucius Henderson, who refuses to marry her or even admit that he's the father. Shunned as a "sinful" woman by most of the town, she turns over her son, Don, to be raised by Miss Julia, the town librarian, who tells the boy that she's his "aunt". Don grows up and goes to college, and when he comes back home the town gossips begin a rumor-mongering campaign. When the town policeman tries to drive Aurora out of town he is found murdered, and Don is arrested for the crime.

Cast

Dorothy Phillips
Dorothy Phillips

Aurora Lane

William Collier Jr.
William Collier Jr.

Don Lane

Jean Arthur
Jean Arthur

Ruth Hale

Phillips Smalley
Phillips Smalley

Judge Lucius Henderson

Florence Turner
Florence Turner

Miss Julia

Gibson Gowland
Gibson Gowland

Ephraim Adamson

Charles A. Post
Charles A. Post

Johnny Adamson

Caroline Rankin
Caroline Rankin

Mrs. Ephraim Adamson

Vera Lewis
Vera Lewis

Invalid

Jack McDonald
Jack McDonald

Sheriff Dan Cummins

Charles Thurston

Constable Joe Tarbush

Adele Watson
Adele Watson

Gossip

Crew

Director
  • James C. McKay
Writer
  • Jack Natteford

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, The Broken Gate 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 James C. McKay 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 1927, 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 Broken Gate took approximately 13 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 60 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 92 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 8 weeks before filming began.
  • The costume department created over 175 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 1927, when this film was released:
  • The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
  • 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: February 15, 1927
  • Runtime: 1h

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