Cast
Lawrence Tierney
Johnny Christopher
Anne Jeffreys
Evelyn Smith
Lowell Gilmore
Von Dorn
Myrna Dell
Gretchen
Harry Harvey
Sen. Remmy
Addison Richards
James Blackton
Ray Walker
Agt. Jorgensen
Jason Robards Sr.
Bruckner
George Cleveland
Capt. Caleb Simpson
Bonnie Blair
Nurse
Lee Bonnell
Police Sgt. Roth
Robert Clarke
The Doctor
Hal Craig
Vice-Admiral
Ralph Dunn
Patrol Car Cop
Lee Elson
Judd
Crew
Director
- Phil Rosen
Writer
- Stuart Palmer
Reviews
CinemaSerf
Quite a far-fetched affair as Lawrence Tierney (rarely in the guise of a "good guy") bumps into Anne Jeffreys and together they get embroiled up in a Nazi plot in California. There's plenty of fisticuffs and pistol-whipping as Jeffreys discovers that her Senator boss is being spied upon - and they must stay ahead of pursuing Nazis and police alike. It does move along nippily for an hour, but the story is pretty predictable.
Jul 7, 2022
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Step by Step 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 Phil Rosen 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 1946, 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 Step by Step took approximately 26 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 62 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 98 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 8 weeks before filming began.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 53 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1946, when this film was released:
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular 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
While Step by Step shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Bangkok... One Way, which focuses more on action than character development, Step by Step subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Salt and Never Too Young to Die explore similar territory, Step by Step 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: August 23, 1946
- Runtime: 1h 2m
