Cast
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Douglas MacLean
as The Young Thief
Sue Carol
as The Girl
Richard Carle
as The Slave Dealer
Russ Powell
as The Fat Thief (as Russell Powell)
Frank Leigh
as The Lean Thief
Wade Boteler
as The Police Judge
Nigel De Brulier
as The Notary
Albert Prisco
as The Wazir
Boris Karloff
as The Chief Conspirator
Albert Gran
as The Sultan
Fred Kelsey
as The Police
Harry L. Fraser
as The Citizen (as Harry Jones)
Noble Johnson
as The Captain of the Guard
Crew
Director
- Edward F. Cline
Writer
- Frederick Chapin
- Wade Boteler
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Soft Cushions represents a fascinating example of Adventure/Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Edward F. Cline 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 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 Soft Cushions took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 70 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 97 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The film contains approximately 2392 individual shots.
- The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1927, 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 Soft Cushions shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Bud Abbott and Lou Costello in the Foreign Legion, which focuses more on action than character development, Soft Cushions offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Son of Ali Baba and The Pirate and the Slave Girl explore similar territory, Soft Cushions stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: August 27, 1927
- Runtime: 1h 10m
