Those not understanding the extreme limitations that makers of film spectaculars had to endure in the early 30s won't understand the raves for this astounding production. American-born Harry B. Lachman, who in his early 20s emigrated to Paris and became a much-lauded impressionist painter (awarded the Légion d'Honneur by the French government) When he returned to America he was sought after as a set designer and director. For this picture, he was teamed with talented Hungarian- born cinematographer Rudolf Mate (Dodsworth '36 - who 12 years later would turn to directing). What these artists do with massive sets and models merged with eye-popping photography is little short of breathtaking.
Without the likes of CGI, they had to create and work with giant sets, with high numbers of extras working in dangerous situations, and come out looking as believable as the times would permit. The end result is quite exceptional. Sound was still in its early days so some levels were a challenge. Performances from a young Spencer Tracy and lovely Clair Trevor are very good considering the material they are working with (some of it based on fact) Veteran performer Henry Walthall (of D. W. Grifith fame) supplies fine support as Pop, the owner of the 'Inferno' sideshow attraction. Prolific veteran composer (sadly too often uncredited) Reginald Hazeltine Basset (David Copperfield '35) supplies the vast score, and Rita Hayworth dances spectacularly, uncredited!
This is one to enjoy for its inventive use of visuals and all the challenges that early filmmakers had to overcome. It's now a little-known vintage winner that should be seen by all motion picture devotees, even with a tacked on ending. It's the last film produced by the Fox Corporation before the merger with 20th Century and there are nice remastered discs available
Note: some content will be seen as politically incorrect nowdays.
Without the likes of CGI, they had to create and work with giant sets, with high numbers of extras working in dangerous situations, and come out looking as believable as the times would permit. The end result is quite exceptional. Sound was still in its early days so some levels were a challenge. Performances from a young Spencer Tracy and lovely Clair Trevor are very good considering the material they are working with (some of it based on fact) Veteran performer Henry Walthall (of D. W. Grifith fame) supplies fine support as Pop, the owner of the 'Inferno' sideshow attraction. Prolific veteran composer (sadly too often uncredited) Reginald Hazeltine Basset (David Copperfield '35) supplies the vast score, and Rita Hayworth dances spectacularly, uncredited!
This is one to enjoy for its inventive use of visuals and all the challenges that early filmmakers had to overcome. It's now a little-known vintage winner that should be seen by all motion picture devotees, even with a tacked on ending. It's the last film produced by the Fox Corporation before the merger with 20th Century and there are nice remastered discs available
Note: some content will be seen as politically incorrect nowdays.