Cast
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Glenn Tryon
as Roy Lane
Evelyn Brent
as Pearl
Merna Kennedy
as Billie Moore
Thomas E. Jackson
as Dan McCorn
Otis Harlan
as 'Porky' Thomson
Robert Ellis
as Steve Crandall
Marion Lord
as Lil Rice
Fritz Feld
as Mose Levett
George Davis
as Joe
Paul Porcasi
as Nick Verdis
Leslie Fenton
as 'Scar' Edwards
Arthur Housman
as Dolph
Betty Francisco
as Mazie
Edythe Flynn
as Ruby
Florence Dudley
as Ann
Crew
Director
- Pál Fejős
Writer
- George Abbott
Producer
- Carl Laemmle Jr.
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Broadway represents a fascinating example of Music/Crime 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 Pál Fejős 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 1929, 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 Broadway took approximately 5 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 105 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 135 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 208 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 78 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1929, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Broadway shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Way of the Dragon, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Broadway offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Kung Fu Hustle and Menace II Society explore similar territory, Broadway 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: May 27, 1929
- Runtime: 1h 45m
- Budget: $1,000,000
