Cast
Tallulah Bankhead
Carol Morgan
Robert Montgomery
William 'Bill' Wade
Hugh Herbert
Peter M. Blainey
Maurice Murphy
Anthony 'Tony' Wade
Louise Closser Hale
First Landlady
Anna Appel
Mrs. Mandel, Second Landlady
Lawrence Grant
Mr. Ledyard
Henry Kolker
Mr. Carter
Jack Baxley
Candy Store Proprietor
Jack Rube Clifford
Truck Driver
Jay Eaton
Chez Louise Manager
Theresa Harris
Amanda
Sterling Holloway
Photographer
Tenen Holtz
Diner Proprietor
Virginia Howell
Mrs. Blainey
Crew
Director
- Harry Beaumont
Reviews
Frank F
Faithless is a much better than average variation of the depression-era standard plot of "real men don't sponge off of rich wife."
Socialite Carol Morgan and Bill Wade are deeply in love, but Carol also loves her money and lifestyle and is confident that she will always have them. They part ways and the Great Depression finally wipes out Carol's fortune. What follows is Carol's increasing desperation to live, redeem herself and eventual re-establishment of a relationship with Bill. The path has many struggles.
Mar 26, 2018
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Faithless 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 Harry Beaumont 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 1932, 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 Faithless took approximately 9 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 77 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 5 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1932, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Faithless 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 Unholy Three, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Faithless subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Baby Face and Thunderbolt explore similar territory, Faithless 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: October 15, 1932
- Runtime: 1h 17m
