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New Faces

New Faces (1954)

Feb 19, 1954 1h 38m Music Comedy

New Faces was a musical revue with songs and comedy skits tied together by a quirky plot. It ran on Broadway for nearly a year in 1952 and was then made into a motion picture in 1954. It helped jump start the careers of several young performers including Paul Lynde, Alice Ghostley, Eartha Kitt, Carol Lawrence, performer/writer Mel Brooks (as Melvin Brooks), and lyricist Sheldon Harnick. The film was basically a reproduction of the stage revue with a thin plot added. The plot involved a producer and performer (Ronny Graham) in financial trouble and is trying to stave off an angry creditor long enough to open his show. A wealthy Texan offers to help out, on the condition that his daughter be in the show.

Directed by Harry Horner

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Harry Horner
  • John Beal
Writer
  • Ronny Graham
  • Mel Brooks
  • Paul Lynde
  • Luther Davis
  • John P. Cleveland
Producer
  • Edward L. Alperson
  • Berman Swarttz

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Thematic Analysis

New Faces represents a fascinating example of Music/Comedy 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 Harry Horner 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 1954, 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 New Faces took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 127 minutes long.
  • The screenplay went through 14 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • The costume department created over 458 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The musical score contains over 60 unique compositions.

Historical Context

  • In 1954, when this film was released:
  • The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
  • 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 New Faces shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Třetí zvonění, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, New Faces offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Kubo and Amadeus explore similar territory, New Faces 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: February 19, 1954
  • Runtime: 1h 38m

Where to Watch

Amazon Prime Video
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MGM+ Amazon Channel
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Philo
Cultpix
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