Cast
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Mary Ainslee
as Marian Morgan
Betty Compson
as Lucy Morgan
Willy Castello
as Count DeHoven
Betty Atkinson
as Helen Johnson
Tommy Wonder
as Harry
Lorelei Readoux
as Beth
Margaret Fealy
as Helen's Grandmother
Donald Kerr
as Taxi Driver
Ray Hirsch
as Jitter Bug
Patti Lacey
as Jitter Bug
Eugene Taylor
as Jitter Bug
Aileen Morris
as Jitter Bug
Maxine Taylor
as Jitter Bug
Pearl Tolson
as Jitter Bug
Monte Collins
as Stewart - Singing Bridge Player
Crew
Director
- Melville Shyer
Writer
- Willis Kent
Reviews
CinemaSerf
To give this it's due, it does try to deal with some rather more grown up themes, but somehow the whole thing just falls a bit flat. In a sort of spin-off from "The Lady Refuses" (1931), this time "Lucy" (Betty Compson) - not averse to a gigolo or two of her own, takes umbrage when her daughter "Marian" (Mary Ainslee) falls for the "Count DeHoven" (Willy Castello), her mother's latest rent-a-beau who engages in his task with great gusto. As we all expect from the outset, he manages to fall for "Marian" and the ensuing conflict exposes the younger girl to the nefarious activities of a seedy vice operation. Will she be saved from this life of degradation? Will the "Count" grow a pair...? Some of the "entertainments" in the establishment in which she ends up working raise a smile or two - especially the torero with his canine "bull" - but for the most part it's a rather unremarkable menage-à-trois depiction of what could have been a more grittily presented exposé of the rather shallow lives of the nouveau riche of the time. There is little by way of chemistry on the screen from any quarter and the dialogue - aside form the odd one-liner from Ainslee, drags somewhat. It's OK. Nothing more.
Jun 23, 2022
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Mad Youth 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 Melville Shyer 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 1940, 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 Mad Youth took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 76 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 113 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 2410 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1940, 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
While Mad Youth shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Last Chance Harvey, which focuses more on action than character development, Mad Youth subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Hobson's Choice and Restless Souls explore similar territory, Mad Youth stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: May 5, 1940
- Runtime: 1h 16m
Where to Watch
