Cast
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Humphrey Bogart
as Mark Braden
Gale Page
as Sue Warren
Billy Halop
as Frank 'Frankie' Warren
Bobby Jordan
as Lester 'Squirt' Smith
Huntz Hall
as Richard 'Goofy' Slade
Leo Gorcey
as Charles 'Spike' Hawkins
Bernard Punsly
as George "Fats" Papadopolous
Gabriel Dell
as Timothy "Bugs" Burke
George Offerman, Jr.
as Red
Weldon Heyburn
as Cooper
Cy Kendall
as Morgan
Charles Trowbridge
as Judge Robert E. Clinton
Spencer Charters
as Old Doctor
Donald Briggs
as New Doctor
Frank Jaquet
as Commissioner
Crew
Director
- Lewis Seiler
- William Clemens
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Crime School 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 Lewis Seiler 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 1938, 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 Crime School took approximately 7 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 85 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 141 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 58 unique compositions.
- The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1938, when this film was released:
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- 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 Crime School shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Preparation for the Next Life, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Crime School subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Bad Boy and Welcome to Collinwood explore similar territory, Crime School 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: May 10, 1938
- Runtime: 1h 25m
Where to Watch
