Prohibition is ending so bootlegger Bugs Ahearn decides to crack California society. He leases a house from down-on-her-luck Ruth and hires her as social secretary. He rescues Polly Cass from a horsefall and goes home to meet her dad who sells him some phony stock certificates. When he learns about this he sends to Chicago for mob help.
"The Little Giant," released in 1933, is a fascinating exploration of the shifting social dynamics in America during the tail end of Prohibition. The film's protagonist, Bugs Ahearn, embodies the archetype of the brash yet charming bootlegger who seeks to infiltrate the upper echelons of California society. This theme of class mobility is central to the narrative, reflecting the larger societal changes of the era, where the collapse of traditional social barriers allowed for characters like Bugs—once seen as social pariahs—to find acceptance in elite circles. This interplay between social status and personal ambition captures the zeitgeist of the early 1930s, as the nation grappled with both the consequences of Prohibition and the evolving definitions of success and respectability.
Cinematically, "The Little Giant" showcases the talents of director William A. Seiter, who expertly weaves comedy and drama to create a film that resonates on multiple levels. The film employs clever visual gags and sharp dialogue, hallmarks of the screwball comedy genre that was gaining popularity during this period. The cinematography, while not groundbreaking, effectively captures the contrast between the gritty underworld of bootlegging and the glamorous facade of high society, using lighting and framing to emphasize the characters’ often conflicting aspirations. This dynamic visual storytelling not only serves the plot but also mirrors the chaotic societal shifts occurring during the Great Depression.
The cultural impact of "The Little Giant" is also noteworthy, as it reflects the ambivalence towards crime and corruption that characterized American cinema in the early 1930s. While Bugs Ahearn is a criminal, he is portrayed with a certain level of charm and likability, which invites audiences to empathize with him. This duality highlights the moral ambiguity present in many films of the era, where protagonists often walk a fine line between heroism and villainy. The film thus serves as a lens through which audiences could engage with contemporary issues of legality, morality, and the American Dream, making it a significant cultural artifact of its time.
Finally, the production history of "The Little Giant" is emblematic of the transitional phase in Hollywood during the early 1930s, as studios began grappling with the advent of sound. The film features a strong ensemble cast, including the comedic talents of Edward G. Robinson, who deftly balances humor with a more serious undertone. The integration of sound into the storytelling not only enhanced comedic timing but also allowed for more nuanced character development. This transition period was crucial for the film industry, as it set the stage for the evolution of genres and storytelling techniques that would dominate Hollywood in the years to come. As a result, "The Little Giant" stands as an intriguing case study in the evolution of American cinema during a time of great social and economic upheaval.
