SCHOOL'S OUT(1930) Matthew 'Stymie' Beard, Norman 'Chubby' Chaney & Jackie Cooper | Comedy | B&W
School's Out is a 1930 Our Gang short comedy film directed by Robert F. McGowan. Produced by Hal Roach and released to theaters by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, it was the 102nd Our Gang short to be released.
SYNOPSIS
The morning ride to school in Miss Crabtree's roadster was always an adventure for the gang. They had grown fond of their teacher, and their minds were occupied with two pressing concerns: the looming threat of summer break and the mistaken identity of Miss Crabtree's brother.
As they settled into the car, whispers and hushed conversations ensued among the kids. Jackie, ever the proactive leader, was busy drafting a petition to keep the school open during the summer. He feared losing Miss Crabtree's guidance and warmth during the break, not to mention the possibility of her getting married and leaving them for good.
Meanwhile, the rest of the gang exchanged worried glances, convinced that Miss Crabtree's brother, whom they knew as "Jack," was actually a potential suitor. Determined to discourage him, they plotted elaborate schemes to scare him away. Little did they know, their misidentification would lead to comical chaos later in the day.
Their fears escalated when, during lunchtime, a man named "Jack" arrived at the school looking for Miss Crabtree. Assuming him to be a suitor, the kids panicked and spun wild tales about their teacher to dissuade him. Outlandish lies filled the air: "She has two false sets of teeth and one wooden leg!" one exclaimed. "She's got seven husbands!" another chimed in, "And twenty-one kids!"
Meanwhile, Jackie, Farina, and Chubby decided to take matters into their own hands. They followed "Jack" to the nearby lake, where he went for a swim. In a desperate attempt to keep him away from Miss Crabtree, they stole his clothes, leaving him to wander around dressed in leaves and branches.
The day was filled with chaos and confusion, as the gang's efforts to protect their beloved teacher led to a series of misadventures. But through it all, their bond grew stronger, and their determination to keep Miss Crabtree at their side remained unwavering.
CAST & CREW
Jackie Cooper as Jackie Cooper
Norman Chaney as Chubby Chaney
Matthew Beard as Hercules
Dorothy DeBorba as Echo
Allen Hoskins as Farina
Bobby Hutchins as Wheezer
Mary Ann Jackson as Mary Ann Jackson
Donald Haines as Donald Haines
Buddy McDonald as Buddy O'Donnell
Bobby Young as Robert 'Bonedust'
Pete the Pup as himself
Douglas Greer as Douglas Greer
Bobby Mallon as Bobby Mallon
June Marlowe as Miss Crabtree
Creighton Hale as Jack Crabtree
Lyle Tayo as Woman on path
Mildred Kornman as Classroom extra
Barbara Roach as Classroom extra
Beverly and Betty Mae Crane as the title readers
Directed by: Robert F. McGowan
Written by: H. M. Walker
Produced by: Hal Roach
Cinematography: Art Lloyd
Edited by: Richard C. Currier
Music by: Leroy Shield, Marvin Hatley
Distributed by: MGM
Release date: November 22, 1930
Running time: 20 minutes, 38 seconds
Country: United
NOTES
A sequel to Teacher's Pet, School's Out was the second of six Our Gang shorts to feature June Marlowe as Miss Crabtree. This was also Bobby Young's first talkie short in Our Gang. When shown on television as part of King World's The Little Rascals package beginning in the 1970s, School's Out was edited to remove racial humor and stereotypes relating to African-Americans.
The kids lost their last teacher, Miss Magillicuddy, when she got married. In the 1930s, female teachers were usually not allowed to continue their profession after marriage.
School's Out is one of four sound Our Gang shorts that fell into the public domain after the copyright lapsed in the 1960s (the other three being Bear Shooters, Our Gang Follies of 1938 and Waldo's Last Stand). As such, these films frequently appear on inexpensive video and/or DVD compilations.
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BEAR SHOOTERS (1930) Norman 'Chubby' Chaney, Jackie Cooper & Mary Ann Jackson | Comedy, Family | COLORIZED
Bear Shooters is a 1930 Our Gang short comedy film directed by Robert F. McGowan. It was the 98th Our Gang short to be released.
SYNOPSIS
On a camping trip, Spud reluctantly brings along his little brother Wheezer, who needs regular chest ointment due to the croup. Despite Spud's initial plan to stay home and care for Wheezer, he decides to join the camping expedition with Wheezer and his sister Mary Ann. They all set off in a rickety wagon pulled by Dinah the Mule, with Jackie, Chubby, and Farina in tow.
Initially, their journey is uneventful until they encounter hidden bootleggers who try to scare them away by disguising one of them in a gorilla suit. Despite the fright, the gang manages to capture the fake gorilla. However, their adventure is cut short when a skunk, not the bootlegger in disguise, forces them to abandon their campsite due to a pungent spray.
CAST & CREW
Norman Chaney as Chubby
Jackie Cooper as Jackie
Allen Hoskins as Farina
Bobby Hutchins as Wheezer
Mary Ann Jackson as Mary Ann
Leon Janney as Donald 'Spud'
Pete the Pup as himself
Dinah the Mule as herself
Fay Holderness as Spud's mother
Charlie Hall as Charlie (Bootlegger #2)
Bob Kortman as Bob (Bootlegger #1)
Charles Gemora as Charlie (in gorilla suit)
Director: Robert F. McGowan
Producers: Robert F. McGowan, Hal Roach
Starring: Bobby Hutchins, Allen Hoskins, Jackie Cooper, Mary Ann Jackson, Norman Chaney, Leon Janney, Pete the Pup
Cinematography: Len Powers
Editing: Richard C. Currier
Music: Ray Henderson
Distributed by: MGM
Release Date: May 17, 1930
Running Time: 20 minutes, 16 seconds
Country: United States
Language: English
NOTES
Bear Shooters is a remake of the 1924 silent entry It's a Bear. Allen Hoskins appeared in both films.
Bear Shooters is one of four sound Our Gang shorts that fell into the public domain after the copyright lapsed in the 1960s (the other three being School's Out, Our Gang Follies of 1938 and Waldo's Last Stand). As such, these films frequently appear on inexpensive video and/or DVD compilations.
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OUR GANG FOLLIES (1938) George McFarland, Carl Switzer, Darla Hood | Comedy | COLORIZED
Our Gang Follies of 1938 (later reissued as simply Follies of 1938) is a 1937 American musical short subject, the 161st short subject entry in Hal Roach's Our Gang (Little Rascals) series.[3] Directed by Gordon Douglas as a sequel to 1935's Our Gang Follies of 1936, the two-reel short was released to theaters on December 18, 1937, by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer.
SYNOPSIS
The story begins with the gang, led by Spanky, excitedly preparing for their latest neighborhood show in Spanky's cellar. Alfalfa, known as the "King of the Crooners," is slated to be the star attraction. However, much to everyone's surprise, Alfalfa abruptly announces that he's done with crooning and wants to pursue a career in opera. This decision throws a wrench into the gang's plans, leaving them scrambling to figure out how to salvage the show.
After Alfalfa takes a nap backstage, he dreams of a grand future in opera where he envisions himself as a celebrated star. Yet, his dream takes a dark turn when he's heckled offstage and ends up destitute on the streets of New York. This unsettling dream prompts Alfalfa to reconsider his aspirations.
Meanwhile, Spanky, now imagining himself as a future Broadway producer, confronts Alfalfa about his operatic ambitions, warning him that he'll end up begging on the streets. Undeterred, Alfalfa remains convinced of his operatic destiny.
Things come to a head when Alfalfa awakens to find himself back in Spanky's cellar during the show, with the audience chanting for him to perform. Moved by the encouragement and fed up with opera, Alfalfa tears up his imagined contract and decides to join his friends onstage.
Alfalfa's return marks a turning point as he enthusiastically belts out Bing Crosby's "Learn to Croon" for the show's finale, showcasing his renewed passion for popular music. Ultimately, the gang's journey highlights the importance of staying true to oneself and embracing what truly makes one happy, even amidst dreams of grandeur. Alfalfa's realization underscores the significance of friendship and the joy found in shared experiences, culminating in a heartwarming and entertaining conclusion to their neighborhood spectacle.
CAST & CREW
Carl Switzer as Alfalfa
Darla Hood as Darla
Eugene Lee as Porky
George McFarland as Spanky
Billie Thomas as Buckwheat
Annabelle Logan as Girl singing "The Bonnie Banks o' Loch Lomond"
Georgia Jean LaRue as Girl singing
Philip MacMahon as Boy singing
Ada Lynn as Blues singer (scenes deleted)
Gloria Brown as Hula girl/Chorus girl/Bowery girl
Jana Ekelund as Check room girl
Betsy Gay as Eccentric girl
Gloria Hurst as Hula girl/Dancer in nightclub
Sylvia Johnson as Porky's girlfriend
Dickie Jones as Dickie
Henry Lee as Spike
Gloria Mackey as Eccentric girl
Patsy May as Check room girl
Tommy McFarland as Tommy
Trina Morris as Eccentric girl
Clifford Severn, Jr. as Richard
Harold Switzer as Harold
Laura June Williams as Hula girl
The Ben Carter Kids as Orchestra members
The Bud Murray Kids as Dancers
Henry Brandon as "Barnaby", opera impresario
Gino Corrado as Opera singer
Wilma Cox as Miss Jones, Barnaby's secretary
Doodles Weaver as Piano player
Directed by: Gordon Douglas
Written by: Hal Law, Robert A. McGowan, Norman Blackburn, Charles Rogers
Produced by: Hal Roach
Cinematography: Art Lloyd
Edited by: William H. Ziegler
Music by: Marvin Hatley, Gioacchino Rossini, Arthur Johnston, Sam Coslow
Production Company: Hal Roach Studios
Distributed by: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Release Date: December 18, 1937
Running Time: 21 minutes and 16 seconds
Country: United States
Language: English
Budget: $58,815
NOTES
"Our Gang Follies of 1938" spoofs Broadway Melody films and other musicals of the era. Alfalfa (Carl Switzer) quits Spanky's (George McFarland) pop music revue to pursue opera, comically singing "The Barber of Seville." The film centers on a dream sequence where Alfalfa envisions his future as a failed opera singer while Spanky owns a glamorous Broadway nightclub.
"Our Gang Follies of 1938" is celebrated as one of the best entries in the series, featuring a return to the original two-reel format after shorter films. This special production, with lavish MGM-style design, was financed partially by MGM, evident in its opening credits. Costing $58,000, it was the most expensive Our Gang short ever made. The cast included over one hundred child actors, with almost all roles played by children except for Henry Brandon's "Barnaby" character, repurposed from "Babes in Toyland." Notably, Annabelle Logan, who sang in the film, later became jazz singer and actress Annie Ross.
Our Gang Follies of 1938 is one of four sound Our Gang shorts that fell into the public domain after the copyright lapsed in the 1960s (the other three being School's Out, Bear Shooters, and Waldo's Last Stand).
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OUR GANG FOLLIES (1938) George 'Spanky' McFarland, Carl 'Alfalfa' Switzer, Darla Hood | Comedy | B&W
Our Gang Follies of 1938 (later reissued as simply Follies of 1938) is a 1937 American musical short subject, the 161st short subject entry in Hal Roach's Our Gang (Little Rascals) series.[3] Directed by Gordon Douglas as a sequel to 1935's Our Gang Follies of 1936, the two-reel short was released to theaters on December 18, 1937, by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer.
SYNOPSIS
The story begins with the gang, led by Spanky, excitedly preparing for their latest neighborhood show in Spanky's cellar. Alfalfa, known as the "King of the Crooners," is slated to be the star attraction. However, much to everyone's surprise, Alfalfa abruptly announces that he's done with crooning and wants to pursue a career in opera. This decision throws a wrench into the gang's plans, leaving them scrambling to figure out how to salvage the show.
After Alfalfa takes a nap backstage, he dreams of a grand future in opera where he envisions himself as a celebrated star. Yet, his dream takes a dark turn when he's heckled offstage and ends up destitute on the streets of New York. This unsettling dream prompts Alfalfa to reconsider his aspirations.
Meanwhile, Spanky, now imagining himself as a future Broadway producer, confronts Alfalfa about his operatic ambitions, warning him that he'll end up begging on the streets. Undeterred, Alfalfa remains convinced of his operatic destiny.
Things come to a head when Alfalfa awakens to find himself back in Spanky's cellar during the show, with the audience chanting for him to perform. Moved by the encouragement and fed up with opera, Alfalfa tears up his imagined contract and decides to join his friends onstage.
Alfalfa's return marks a turning point as he enthusiastically belts out Bing Crosby's "Learn to Croon" for the show's finale, showcasing his renewed passion for popular music. Ultimately, the gang's journey highlights the importance of staying true to oneself and embracing what truly makes one happy, even amidst dreams of grandeur. Alfalfa's realization underscores the significance of friendship and the joy found in shared experiences, culminating in a heartwarming and entertaining conclusion to their neighborhood spectacle.
CAST & CREW
Carl Switzer as Alfalfa
Darla Hood as Darla
Eugene Lee as Porky
George McFarland as Spanky
Billie Thomas as Buckwheat
Annabelle Logan as Girl singing "The Bonnie Banks o' Loch Lomond"
Georgia Jean LaRue as Girl singing
Philip MacMahon as Boy singing
Ada Lynn as Blues singer (scenes deleted)
Gloria Brown as Hula girl/Chorus girl/Bowery girl
Jana Ekelund as Check room girl
Betsy Gay as Eccentric girl
Gloria Hurst as Hula girl/Dancer in nightclub
Sylvia Johnson as Porky's girlfriend
Dickie Jones as Dickie
Henry Lee as Spike
Gloria Mackey as Eccentric girl
Patsy May as Check room girl
Tommy McFarland as Tommy
Trina Morris as Eccentric girl
Clifford Severn, Jr. as Richard
Harold Switzer as Harold
Laura June Williams as Hula girl
The Ben Carter Kids as Orchestra members
The Bud Murray Kids as Dancers
Henry Brandon as "Barnaby", opera impresario
Gino Corrado as Opera singer
Wilma Cox as Miss Jones, Barnaby's secretary
Doodles Weaver as Piano player
Directed by: Gordon Douglas
Written by: Hal Law, Robert A. McGowan, Norman Blackburn, Charles Rogers
Produced by: Hal Roach
Cinematography: Art Lloyd
Edited by: William H. Ziegler
Music by: Marvin Hatley, Gioacchino Rossini, Arthur Johnston, Sam Coslow
Production Company: Hal Roach Studios
Distributed by: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Release Date: December 18, 1937
Running Time: 21 minutes and 16 seconds
Country: United States
Language: English
Budget: $58,815
NOTES
"Our Gang Follies of 1938" spoofs Broadway Melody films and other musicals of the era. Alfalfa (Carl Switzer) quits Spanky's (George McFarland) pop music revue to pursue opera, comically singing "The Barber of Seville." The film centers on a dream sequence where Alfalfa envisions his future as a failed opera singer while Spanky owns a glamorous Broadway nightclub.
"Our Gang Follies of 1938" is celebrated as one of the best entries in the series, featuring a return to the original two-reel format after shorter films. This special production, with lavish MGM-style design, was financed partially by MGM, evident in its opening credits. Costing $58,000, it was the most expensive Our Gang short ever made. The cast included over one hundred child actors, with almost all roles played by children except for Henry Brandon's "Barnaby" character, repurposed from "Babes in Toyland." Notably, Annabelle Logan, who sang in the film, later became jazz singer and actress Annie Ross.
Our Gang Follies of 1938 is one of four sound Our Gang shorts that fell into the public domain after the copyright lapsed in the 1960s (the other three being School's Out, Bear Shooters, and Waldo's Last Stand).
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ASK A POLICEMAN (1939) Will Hay, Graham Moffatt & Glennis Lorimer | Adventure, Comedy | B&W
Ask a Policeman is a 1939 British comedy film directed by Marcel Varnel and starring Will Hay, Moore Marriott and Graham Moffatt.
SYNPOSIS
The mirthful adventures of Police-Sergeant Samuel Dudfoot and his two constables, Albert Brown and Jeremiah Harbottle, who stage a fabricated crime-wave to save their jobs, then find themselves involved in the real thing. Will Hay stars as Sergeant Dudfoot in a plot that sees the Turnbotham Round police force on the verge of disbandment due to its lack of arrests. To avoid closure, Dudfoot and his team orchestrate fake crimes, but they stumble upon genuine smugglers in the process. The title is derived from the popular music hall song "Ask a P'liceman."
In Turnbotham Round, Sergeant Dudfoot recounts his policing experiences during a radio broadcast, interrupted by his bumbling constables, Albert and Harbottle. The following day, Dudfoot receives a letter from the Chief Constable, signaling an impending investigation due to the force's lack of arrests. Determined to keep their jobs, they hatch a plan to fabricate an arrest. Setting up a speed trap, they inadvertently apprehend the Chief Constable himself, leading to a series of comical mishaps.
Desperate to prove their worth, Dudfoot, Albert, and Harbottle concoct schemes to catch criminals, inadvertently crossing paths with real smugglers. Amidst confusion and chaos, they encounter a Headless Horseman, a warning note from the smugglers, and ticking pocket watches. Unraveling clues, they uncover the Devil's Cave, ultimately discovering they've stumbled into their own cellar filled with contraband.
Confronted by the Squire, who is revealed as the smuggling ringleader, a chaotic chase ensues, culminating in the trio's arrest warrant. Dudfoot, refusing to go quietly, punches the Chief Constable, and the trio dashes off, evading capture amidst a frantic pursuit.
CAST & CREW
Will Hay - Sergeant Samuel Dudfoot
Graham Moffatt - Albert Brown
Moore Marriott - Jerry Harbottle/Harbottle Senior
Glennis Lorimer - Emily Martin
Peter Gawthorne - Chief Constable
Charles Oliver - The Squire
Herbert Lomas - The Coastguard
Dave O'Toole - Dudfoot's witness
Noel Dainton - Revenue Officer
Brian Worth - Broadcasting Engineer
Patrick Aherne - First motorist
Directed by: Marcel Varnel
Written by: Marriott Edgar, Sidney Gilliat (story), Val Guest, J. O. C. Orton
Produced by: Edward Black
Cinematography: Derick Williams
Edited by: R. E. Dearing
Music by: Louis Levy
Production company: Gainsborough Pictures
Distributed by: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (United States)
Release date: 28 August 1939
Running time: 83 minutes
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English
NOTES
In 1982, comedy duo Cannon and Ball filmed a loose remake of Ask A Policeman, titled The Boys in Blue, which was directed by Val Guest, one of the screenwriters of Ask A Policeman. Though not a remake, 2007's Hot Fuzz borrowed the plot device of policemen uncovering organised crime in a sleepy area of rural England. The makers of the Indian film Naalu Policeum Nalla Irundha Oorum (2015) have acknowledged Ask a Policeman as an influence on it.
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ACROSS THE PLAINS (1939) Jack Randall, Frank Yaconelli & Joyce Bryant | Drama, Western | B&W
Across the Plains is a 1939 American Western film directed by Spencer Gordon Bennet and starring Addison Randall, Frank Yaconelli, and Joyce Bryant. Written by Robert Emmett Tansey, the film is about two brothers who are separated when they are young and who meet again as adults, one good and one bad.
SYNOPSIS
Two brothers, Jack and Jimmy, were separated when young after a gang of outlaws attacked a wagon train. Jack was adopted by an Indian tribe, while Jimmy, now known as the "Kansas Kid," joined the outlaws. As adults, Jack, now protecting a gold shipment, finds himself pitted against Jimmy and his outlaw gang, who are attempting to steal it. In the midst of the showdown, they discover their true relationship when Buckskin, the old wagon train master, reveals their shared past. Shocked by the revelation, Jimmy learns that their parents were murdered by one of the outlaws, leading him to switch sides. A thrilling shootout ensues between the brothers and the outlaws, resulting in Jimmy's death. Before passing away, Jimmy expresses regret to Jack about his past actions.
CAST & CREW
Addison Randall as Jack Winters, aka Cherokee
Frank Yaconelli as Lopez
Joyce Bryant as Mary Masters
Hal Price as Buckskin
Dennis Moore as Jimmy Winters, aka The Kansas Kid
Glenn Strange as Jeff Masters
Bob Card as Buff Gordon
Bud Osborne as Henchman Lex
Monte Rawlins as Henchman Rip
Wylie Grant as Henchman Rawhide
Directed by: Spencer Gordon Bennet
Written by: Robert Emmett Tansey
Produced by: Robert Emmett Tansey
Cinematography: Bert Longenecker
Edited by: Robert Golden
Production Company: Monogram Pictures
Release Date: June 1, 1939
Running Time: 59 minutes
Country: United States
Language: English
NOTES
Robert Emmett Tansey also wrote the screenplay for the first Republic Pictures feature film Westward Ho (1935 film) (1935) starring John Wayne. The Plot of that movie strongly resembles this one and much of the dialogue is the same.
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THE ARIZONA KID (1939) Roy Rogers, George 'Gabby' Hayes & Sally March | Drama, Western | COLORIZED
The Arizona Kid is a 1939 American Western film directed by Joseph Kane under the Republic Pictures banner. The film stars Roy Rogers as a Confederate officer in Missouri during the American Civil War.
SYNOPSIS
Roy, a Confederate officer stationed in Missouri during the Civil War, is tasked with ending the activities of outlaw gangs operating under the guise of serving the Confederacy. Alongside his comrade Gabby, also a Confederate scout, Roy faces the challenge of confronting one such gang led by the ruthless Val McBride, known for his disregard for rules and authority.
When Roy encounters McBride's gang in a saloon, tensions escalate, especially after a reunion with his childhood friend Dave Allen, who has joined McBride's force despite Roy's warnings. McBride's defiance of Confederate orders leads to his expulsion from the army, prompting Roy and Gabby to embark on a mission to track down and eliminate McBride and his men.
Their pursuit takes a dangerous turn when McBride attacks a gold shipment escorted by Roy and Gabby, leaving Gabby injured and Roy barely escaping with his life. Despite this setback, Roy remains determined to apprehend McBride, setting out again after recovering from their injuries.
After a prolonged and perilous search, Roy and Gabby finally corner McBride's men, with Dave among them. Though McBride manages to evade capture, Roy ultimately confronts him in a showdown at a local saloon. In a tense exchange of gunfire, Roy emerges victorious, bringing an end to McBride's reign of terror.
CAST & CREW
Roy Rogers as Roy Rogers
George "Gabby" Hayes as "Gabby" Whittaker
Sally March as Laura Radford
Stuart Hamblen as Val McBride
Dorothy Sebastian as Bess Warren
Robert Middlemass as General Stark
Earl Dwire as Dr. Jason Radford
David Kerwin as Dave Allen
Peter Fargo as Henchman Sheldon
Fred Burns as Melton – Volunteer
Lisa Ann as Mother of Roy Rogers
Directed by: Joseph Kane
Written by: Luci Ward, Gerald Geraghty
Produced by: Joseph Kane
Cinematography: William Nobles, Edgar Lyons
Edited by: Lester Orlebeck
Music by: Floyd Morgan
Production Company: Republic Pictures
Distributed by: Republic Pictures
Release Date: September 29, 1939
Running Time: 61 minutes (original), 54 minutes (re-release)
Country: United States
Language: English
149
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THE ARIZONA KID (1939) Roy Rogers, George 'Gabby' Hayes & Sally March | Drama, Western | B&W
The Arizona Kid is a 1939 American Western film directed by Joseph Kane under the Republic Pictures banner. The film stars Roy Rogers as a Confederate officer in Missouri during the American Civil War.
SYNOPSIS
Roy, a Confederate officer stationed in Missouri during the Civil War, is tasked with ending the activities of outlaw gangs operating under the guise of serving the Confederacy. Alongside his comrade Gabby, also a Confederate scout, Roy faces the challenge of confronting one such gang led by the ruthless Val McBride, known for his disregard for rules and authority.
When Roy encounters McBride's gang in a saloon, tensions escalate, especially after a reunion with his childhood friend Dave Allen, who has joined McBride's force despite Roy's warnings. McBride's defiance of Confederate orders leads to his expulsion from the army, prompting Roy and Gabby to embark on a mission to track down and eliminate McBride and his men.
Their pursuit takes a dangerous turn when McBride attacks a gold shipment escorted by Roy and Gabby, leaving Gabby injured and Roy barely escaping with his life. Despite this setback, Roy remains determined to apprehend McBride, setting out again after recovering from their injuries.
After a prolonged and perilous search, Roy and Gabby finally corner McBride's men, with Dave among them. Though McBride manages to evade capture, Roy ultimately confronts him in a showdown at a local saloon. In a tense exchange of gunfire, Roy emerges victorious, bringing an end to McBride's reign of terror.
CAST & CREW
Roy Rogers as Roy Rogers
George "Gabby" Hayes as "Gabby" Whittaker
Sally March as Laura Radford
Stuart Hamblen as Val McBride
Dorothy Sebastian as Bess Warren
Robert Middlemass as General Stark
Earl Dwire as Dr. Jason Radford
David Kerwin as Dave Allen
Peter Fargo as Henchman Sheldon
Fred Burns as Melton – Volunteer
Lisa Ann as Mother of Roy Rogers
Directed by: Joseph Kane
Written by: Luci Ward, Gerald Geraghty
Produced by: Joseph Kane
Cinematography: William Nobles, Edgar Lyons
Edited by: Lester Orlebeck
Music by: Floyd Morgan
Production Company: Republic Pictures
Distributed by: Republic Pictures
Release Date: September 29, 1939
Running Time: 61 minutes (original), 54 minutes (re-release)
Country: United States
Language: English
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ASK A POLICEMAN (1939) Will Hay, Graham Moffatt & Glennis Lorimer | Adventure, Comedy | COLORIZED
Ask a Policeman is a 1939 British comedy film directed by Marcel Varnel and starring Will Hay, Moore Marriott and Graham Moffatt.
SYNPOSIS
The mirthful adventures of Police-Sergeant Samuel Dudfoot and his two constables, Albert Brown and Jeremiah Harbottle, who stage a fabricated crime-wave to save their jobs, then find themselves involved in the real thing. Will Hay stars as Sergeant Dudfoot in a plot that sees the Turnbotham Round police force on the verge of disbandment due to its lack of arrests. To avoid closure, Dudfoot and his team orchestrate fake crimes, but they stumble upon genuine smugglers in the process. The title is derived from the popular music hall song "Ask a P'liceman."
In Turnbotham Round, Sergeant Dudfoot recounts his policing experiences during a radio broadcast, interrupted by his bumbling constables, Albert and Harbottle. The following day, Dudfoot receives a letter from the Chief Constable, signaling an impending investigation due to the force's lack of arrests. Determined to keep their jobs, they hatch a plan to fabricate an arrest. Setting up a speed trap, they inadvertently apprehend the Chief Constable himself, leading to a series of comical mishaps.
Desperate to prove their worth, Dudfoot, Albert, and Harbottle concoct schemes to catch criminals, inadvertently crossing paths with real smugglers. Amidst confusion and chaos, they encounter a Headless Horseman, a warning note from the smugglers, and ticking pocket watches. Unraveling clues, they uncover the Devil's Cave, ultimately discovering they've stumbled into their own cellar filled with contraband.
Confronted by the Squire, who is revealed as the smuggling ringleader, a chaotic chase ensues, culminating in the trio's arrest warrant. Dudfoot, refusing to go quietly, punches the Chief Constable, and the trio dashes off, evading capture amidst a frantic pursuit.
CAST & CREW
Will Hay - Sergeant Samuel Dudfoot
Graham Moffatt - Albert Brown
Moore Marriott - Jerry Harbottle/Harbottle Senior
Glennis Lorimer - Emily Martin
Peter Gawthorne - Chief Constable
Charles Oliver - The Squire
Herbert Lomas - The Coastguard
Dave O'Toole - Dudfoot's witness
Noel Dainton - Revenue Officer
Brian Worth - Broadcasting Engineer
Patrick Aherne - First motorist
Directed by: Marcel Varnel
Written by: Marriott Edgar, Sidney Gilliat (story), Val Guest, J. O. C. Orton
Produced by: Edward Black
Cinematography: Derick Williams
Edited by: R. E. Dearing
Music by: Louis Levy
Production company: Gainsborough Pictures
Distributed by: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (United States)
Release date: 28 August 1939
Running time: 83 minutes
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English
NOTES
In 1982, comedy duo Cannon and Ball filmed a loose remake of Ask A Policeman, titled The Boys in Blue, which was directed by Val Guest, one of the screenwriters of Ask A Policeman. Though not a remake, 2007's Hot Fuzz borrowed the plot device of policemen uncovering organised crime in a sleepy area of rural England. The makers of the Indian film Naalu Policeum Nalla Irundha Oorum (2015) have acknowledged Ask a Policeman as an influence on it.
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BACK DOOR TO HEAVEN (1939) Wallace Ford, Patricia Ellis & Stuart Erwin | Crime, Drama | B&W
Back Door to Heaven is a 1939 American crime drama film directed by William K. Howard and starring Wallace Ford, Aline MacMahon, Stuart Erwin and Patricia Ellis.
SYNOPSIS
The narrative delves into the complexities of Frankie's life, portraying the harsh realities he faces growing up in poverty with an alcoholic father and a struggling mother. His act of stealing a harmonica, while a desperate attempt to participate in a school event, sets off a chain of events that ultimately leads to his incarceration. Despite his troubled circumstances, Frankie finds solace in his relationship with his teacher, Miss Williams, who sees the good in him and believes in his potential.
As Frankie navigates the challenges of reform school and later prison, the story explores themes of resilience, friendship, and the enduring impact of education and mentorship. Through the lens of Frankie's experiences, the film sheds light on the flaws within the justice system and the struggles faced by individuals trying to rebuild their lives after serving time.
The portrayal of Frankie's reunion with his classmates and teacher serves as a poignant moment of reflection, highlighting the bonds of camaraderie and the nostalgia of returning to familiar surroundings. Despite the hope for redemption and a fresh start, Frankie's involvement in a tragic incident shatters his aspirations, leading to a heartbreaking conclusion that underscores the harsh realities of societal injustice and the fragility of human existence.
CAST & CREW
Wallace Ford as Francis ("Frankie") Rogers, as an adult
Aline MacMahon as Miss Williams
Stuart Erwin as Jud Mason
Patricia Ellis as Carol Evans, as an adult
Bert Frohman as Bert "Mouse" Gatto
Jimmy Lydon as Frankie Rogers, as a child
Anita Magee as Carol Evans, as a child
Raymond Roe as John Shelley, as a child
William Redfield as Charley Smith, as a child
Kenneth LeRoy as Bob Hale, as a child
David Johnson as Wallace Kischler, as a child
William Harrigan as Frankie's Father
Jane Seymour as Frankie's Mother
Alfred Webster as Sheriff Alvin Kramer
Robert John Wildhack as Rudolph Herzing
Kent Smith as John Shelley - as Adult (replaced by Van Heflin)
Van Heflin as John Shelley, as an adult
Douglas McMullen as Wallace Kischler, as an adult
George J. Lewis as Bob Hale, as an adult
Bruce A. Evans as Charley Smith, as an adult
Georgette Harvey as Mrs. Hamilton
Helen Christian as Mrs. Gladys Smith
Iris Adrian as Sugar, Burlesque Dancer
Directed by: William K. Howard
Written by: John Bright, Robert Tasker
Story by: William K. Howard (based on "Picket Fence")
Produced by: William K. Howard
Cinematography: Hal Mohr
Edited by: Jack Murray
Music by: Maurice Baron
Production companies: Vernon Steele Productions, Odessco Productions
Distributed by: Paramount Pictures
Release date: April 19, 1939 (New York City)
Running time: 85 minutes
Country: United States
Language: English
Budget: $350,000
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BAD BOY (1939) Johnny Downs, Rosalind Keith & Helen MacKellar | Drama, Crime | B&W
Bad Boy is a 1939 American film directed by Herbert Meyer written by Richard C. Kahn, edited by Roy Luby produced by gateway production, John H. Greenhalgh Jr. Cinematographer and music by Paul Marquardt. Bad Boy was released on 10 July 1939. The film is also known as Perilous Journey in the United Kingdom.
SYNOPSIS
Johnny Fraser leaves his small hometown to seek fortune in the city, landing a job with an architecture firm. Encouraged by a coworker, Steve Carson, Johnny begins gambling on horse races, leading to heavy losses. Desperate, he embezzles money from the firm, which results in his dismissal and imprisonment. Despite his mother's support upon release, Johnny struggles to find employment. Eventually, he falls into a shady business led by Steve, unaware of his deceitful intentions. Complicating matters, Johnny marries a gold-digging nightclub singer, Madelon Kirby, further entangling himself in a web of betrayal and deception orchestrated by Steve.
CAST & CREW
Johnny Downs as John Fraser
Rosalind Keith as Madelon Kirby
Helen MacKellar as Mrs. Fraser
Spencer Williams as Terry
Archie Robbins as Steve Carson
Holmes Herbert as Mr. McNeil
Richard Cramer as George
Harry E. Lang as Vanetti
Crane Whitley as Henchman
Directed by: Herbert Meyer
Written by: Richard C. Kahn (original screenplay)
Cinematography: Jack Greenhalgh
Edited by: S. Roy Luby
Music by: Paul Marquardt
Distributed by: Monogram Pictures
Release Date: July 10, 1939
Running Time: 65 minutes
Country: United States
Language: English
88
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BAD BOY (1939) Johnny Downs, Rosalind Keith & Helen MacKellar | Drama, Crime | B&W
Bad Boy is a 1939 American film directed by Herbert Meyer written by Richard C. Kahn, edited by Roy Luby produced by gateway production, John H. Greenhalgh Jr. Cinematographer and music by Paul Marquardt. Bad Boy was released on 10 July 1939. The film is also known as Perilous Journey in the United Kingdom.
SYNOPSIS
Johnny Fraser leaves his small hometown to seek fortune in the city, landing a job with an architecture firm. Encouraged by a coworker, Steve Carson, Johnny begins gambling on horse races, leading to heavy losses. Desperate, he embezzles money from the firm, which results in his dismissal and imprisonment. Despite his mother's support upon release, Johnny struggles to find employment. Eventually, he falls into a shady business led by Steve, unaware of his deceitful intentions. Complicating matters, Johnny marries a gold-digging nightclub singer, Madelon Kirby, further entangling himself in a web of betrayal and deception orchestrated by Steve.
CAST & CREW
Johnny Downs as John Fraser
Rosalind Keith as Madelon Kirby
Helen MacKellar as Mrs. Fraser
Spencer Williams as Terry
Archie Robbins as Steve Carson
Holmes Herbert as Mr. McNeil
Richard Cramer as George
Harry E. Lang as Vanetti
Crane Whitley as Henchman
Directed by: Herbert Meyer
Written by: Richard C. Kahn (original screenplay)
Cinematography: Jack Greenhalgh
Edited by: S. Roy Luby
Music by: Paul Marquardt
Distributed by: Monogram Pictures
Release Date: July 10, 1939
Running Time: 65 minutes
Country: United States
Language: English
79
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THE BRONZE BUCKAROO (1939) Herb Jeffries, Lucius Brooks & Artie Young | Western, Black Cinema | B&W
The Bronze Buckaroo is a 1939 American Western race film directed by Richard C. Kahn. The Bronze Buckaroo stars Black cowboy singer Herb Jeffries, here billed as Herbert Jeffrey.
SYNOPSIS
Cowboy Bob Blake and his friends journey to Arizona to aid Betty Jackson, whose brother Joe has vanished. Upon arriving at Jackson's ranch, they find Betty, who reveals Joe's three-week absence. Meanwhile, the ranch hand learns ventriloquism and attempts to sell a talking mule to Dusty. Blake uncovers that Joe is held by Buck Thorne, a land-grabbing rancher seeking gold on the Jackson land. Blake devises a plan to rescue Joe, encountering difficulties. When Betty is captured by Thorne, Blake's men rush to the saloon for backup. As Dusty summons the sheriff, Blake tracks Betty's horse. A shootout erupts, and with the sheriff's timely arrival, the villains are apprehended. Blake rides off into the sunset with Betty.
CAST & CREW
Herb Jeffries as Bob Blake
Artie Young as Betty Jackson
Rollie Hardin as Joe Jackson
Clarence Brooks as Buck Thorne
F. E. Miller as Slim Perkins
Lucius Brooks as Dusty
Spencer Williams as Pete
Lee Calmes as Lee
Earle Morris as Bartender
The Four Tones as Singing Quartet
Directed by: Richard C. Kahn
Written by: Richard C. Kahn (original story, screenplay)
Produced by: Richard C. Kahn, Jed Buell
Cinematography: Roland Price, Clark Ramsey
Music by: Lew Porter
Production Company: Hollywood Productions
Distributed by: Sack Amusements
Release Date: January 1, 1939
Running Time: 58 minutes
Country: United States
Language: English
100
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BULLDOG DRUMMOND'S SECRET POLICE (1939) John Howard & Heather Angel | Crime, Mystery, Romance | B&W
Bulldog Drummond's Secret Police is a 1939 English Castle murder mystery film directed by James P. Hogan, based on the H. C. McNeile novel Temple Tower. It is one of many films featuring the British sleuth and adventurer Bulldog Drummond. In 1930, Fox produced Temple Tower, directed by Donald Gallaher and starring Kenneth MacKenna and Marceline Day, which was also based on the McNeile book.
SYNOPSIS
Captain Drummond and his girlfriend, eager to marry, face complications when they discover a hidden treasure in the house they intend to celebrate their marriage in. Meanwhile, absent-minded Professor Downie pays a visit to Capt. Hugh "Bulldog" Drummond as he plans his long-awaited wedding to Phyllis Claverling in Temple Tower. The professor reveals the existence of a buried fortune on Drummond's estate, along with a codebook to locate it. However, their plans are disrupted when the codebook is stolen, Professor Downie is murdered, and Phyllis is kidnapped by someone also seeking the riches, dragging Drummond into the dangerous plot once again.
CAST & CREW
Heather Angel as Phyllis Clavering
John Howard as Captain Hugh C. "Bulldog" Drummond
H.B. Warner as Colonel Nielson
Reginald Denny as Algy Longworth
E.E. Clive as Tenny
Elizabeth Patterson as Aunt Blanche
Leo G. Carroll as Henry Seaton/Andrew Boulton
Forrester Harvey as Professor Downie
Clyde Cook as Constable Hawkins
David Clyde as Constable Jenkins
Neil Fitzgerald as Station Master
Elspeth Dudgeon as Housekeeper
Directed by: James P. Hogan
Screenplay by: Garnett Weston
Based on: "Temple Tower," a 1929 novel by H. C. McNeile
Produced by: Stuart Walker
Cinematography: Merritt B. Gerstad
Edited by: Arthur P. Schmidt
Music by: Boris Morros
Production Company: Paramount Pictures
Distributed by: Paramount Pictures
Release Date: April 14, 1939
Running Time: 56 minutes
Country: United States
Language: English
NOTES
The story is set 28 miles outside London in Rockingham, as a sign on the railroad station states.
The film uses flashbacks from previous Drummond films and dream sequences extensively, which has led some to criticize it as tiresome. Oddly, despite the phrase "secret police" in the title, there is nothing relating to any secret police in the plot except Col. Neilsen's quip when several of the characters are together. The production values are high as the sets are of high quality, but the script has not received much acclaim.
116
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4
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BOYS REFORMATORY (1939) Frankie Darro, Grant Withers & Lillian Elliott | Drama | B&W
Boys' Reformatory is a 1939 American crime film directed by Howard Bretherton and produced by Lindsley Parsons for Monogram Pictures. The screenplay was written by Wellyn Totman and Ray Trampe based on a story by Ray Trampe and Norman S. Hall.
SYNOPSIS
A tough street kid takes the rap for a burglary committed by the son of his foster family and is sent to a boys reformatory, where the inmates are under the thumb of corrupt guards and a brutal prison doctor.
CAST & CREW
Frankie Darro as Tommy Ryan
Lillian Elliott as Mrs. O'Meara
Frank Coghlan, Jr. as Eddie O'Meara
Ben Welden as Mike Hearn
David Durand as 'Knuckles' Malone
William P. Carleton as Superior Judge Robert A. Scott
Grant Withers as Dr. Owens, a physician at the State Industrial School
John St. Polis as Superintendent Keene of the State Industrial School
Pat Flaherty as Barnes, a guard at the State Industrial School
George Offerman, Jr. as Joey, an inmate at the State Industrial School
Directed by: Howard Bretherton
Written by: Screenplay - Ray Trampe, Wellyn Totman
Story - Ray Trampe, Norman S. Hall
Produced by: Lindsley Parsons
Cinematography: Harry Neumann
Edited by: Russell Schoengarth
Music by: Edward Kay
Distributed by: Monogram Pictures Corporation
Release Date: May 1, 1939
Running Time: 62 minutes
Country: United States
Language: English
77
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BULLDOG DRUMMOND'S BRIDE (1939) John Howard & Heather Angel | Action, Adventure, Drama | B&W
Bulldog Drummond's Bride is an American crime comedy thriller film produced in 1939. It was the last film of Paramount Pictures' Bulldog Drummond film series.
SYNOPSIS
A bank robbery in London disrupts Bulldog Drummond's wedding plans with his girlfriend once again. However, this time, when the criminals are apprehended, the wedding celebrations can finally proceed. Meanwhile, in London, a master criminal hides his loot in a radio set in Bulldog Drummond's new flat, leading to a series of events including murder, punch-ups, and an expedition to France. In a race against time to reach Bulldog's fiancée, Phyllis, the adventure culminates in a rooftop fight, bringing an explosive finale to Bulldog's bachelorhood as he finally ties the knot with Phyllis in France.
CAST & CREW
John Howard as Captain Hugh Chesterton 'Bulldog' Drummond
Heather Angel as Phyllis Clavering
H.B. Warner as Col. J.A. Nielson
Reginald Denny as Algy Longworth
E.E. Clive as "Tenny" Tennison
Elizabeth Patterson as Aunt Blanche Clavering
Eduardo Ciannelli as Henri Armides
Gerald Hamer as Garvey (Armides' Henchman)
John Sutton as Inspector Tredennis
Neil Fitzgerald as Evan Barrows
Louis Mercier as Mayor Jean Philippe Napoleon Dupres
Adia Kuznetzoff as Gaston
Adrienne D'Ambricourt as Theresa
Clyde Cook as Constable Sacker
Directed by: James P. Hogan
Screenplay by: Stuart Palmer, Garnett Weston
Based on: "The Oriental Mind," a 1937 story in Strand Magazine by H.C. McNeile
Produced by: William LeBaron, Stuart Walker
Cinematography: Harry Fischbeck
Edited by: Chandler House
Music by: John Leipold
Production Company: Paramount Pictures
Release Date: July 12, 1939
Running Time: 56 minutes
Country: United States
Language: English
65
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ARREST BULLDOG DRUMMOND (1939) John Howard & Heather Angel | Adventure, Crime, Mystery | B&W
Arrest Bulldog Drummond is a 1938 American crime thriller film directed by James P. Hogan. It was the last of eight B-pictures featuring the character produced by Paramount Pictures in the late 1930s. All but the first starred John Howard as Drummond.
SYNOPSIS
The invention of an atomic weapon, a long-range ray capable of detonating explosions, prompts Scotland Yard and Captain Drummond into action. Amidst preparations for Bulldog's wedding in London, he and Algy Longworth are summoned to eccentric scientist Richard Gannett's house. There, they find Gannett murdered, with his last words warning of "The Stinger." Reporting the crime to Scotland Yard, Bulldog becomes a suspect after a dock-yard altercation. Following clues, Bulldog discovers the missing death ray near flickering lights. He uncovers The Stinger's identity as spy Rolf Alferson and foils his plot to sell the weapon. With Phyllis's help, Bulldog apprehends Alferson, ensuring justice prevails.
CAST & CREW
John Howard as Capt. Hugh Chesterton "Bulldog" Drummond
Heather Angel as Phyllis Clavering
H.B. Warner as Col. J.A. Nielson
Reginald Denny as Algernon "Algy" Longworth
E.E. Clive as "Tenny" Tennison
Jean Fenwick as Lady Beryl Ledyard
Zeffie Tilbury as Aunt Meg
George Zucco as Rolf Alferson
Leonard Mudie as Richard Gannett
Evan Thomas as John Smith
Clyde Cook as Short, Mustachio'd Constable (Sacker)
David Clyde as Tall, Cleanshaven Constable (McThane)
George Regas as Soongh, Lady Beryl's man
Neil Fitzgerald as Sir Malcolm McLeonard
Claud Allister as Sir Basil Leghorne
Forrester Harvey as Constable Severn
John Sutton as Inspector Tredennis
Directed by: James P. Hogan
Written by: Herman C. McNeile (based on the book "The Final Count"), Stuart Palmer
Produced by: William LeBaron (executive producer), Stuart Walker
Cinematography: Ted Tetzlaff
Edited by: Stuart Gilmore
Music by: Gerard Carbonara
Production Company: Paramount Pictures
Distributed by: Paramount Pictures
Release Dates: November 25, 1938 (US), November 29, 1938 (London)
Running Time: 57 minutes
Country: United States
Language: English
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BURIED ALIVE (1939) Beverly Roberts, Robert Wilcox & Paul McVey | Drama, Thriller | COLORIZED
Buried Alive is a 1939 film directed by Victor Halperin.
SYNOPSIS
A prison trustee rescues a despondent executioner from a bar-room brawl, and is blamed for the fight by a tabloid reporter who actually started it, and loses parole, becomes embittered, and gets blamed for murder of guard.
CAST & CREW
Beverly Roberts as Joan Wright
Robert Wilcox as Johnny Martin
Paul McVey as Jim Henderson
Ted Osborne as Ira Hanes (as Ted Osborn)
George Pembroke as Ernie Matthews (as Geo. Pembroke)
Stephen Chase as Dr. Robert Lee (as Alden Chase)
George Lynn as Gus Barth (as Peter Lynn)
Wheeler Oakman as Manning
Norman Budd as The Kid
Ben Alexander as Riley
Boyd Irwin as Rutledge
Edward Earle as Charlie Blake
Dave O'Brien as Carson
Robert McKenzie as Al Garrity (as Bob McKenzie)
Don Rowan as Big Billy
Directed by: Victor Halperin
Screenplay by: George Bricker
Story by: William A. Ullman Jr.
Produced by: Ben N. Judell
Cinematography: Jack Greenhalgh
Edited by: Holbrook Todd
Production Company: Producers Pictures Corp.
Distributed by: Producers Pictures Corp.
Release Date: November 6, 1939
Running Time: 62 minutes
Country: United States
NOTES
After finishing Torture Ship, director Victor Halperin started production on his next film Buried Alive. The film began shooting in the first half of October 1939 for Producer's Pictures Corporation.
Actor Clem Wilenchick (aka Crane Whitley) was scheduled to play the character of Manning, but as the shooting began he was replaced by Wheeler Oakman. The Call Bureau Cast Service initially mentioned that Archie Twitchell would portray Carson, and was replaced by Dave O'Brien.
The Film Daily found the film "falls short of being a convincing drama. It will probably be okay as program material in the smalle nabe houses" but found Halperin's direction merely "O.K." Variety declared the film "Inferior all the way, particularly in its direction and playing, outside of Beverly Roberts".
A critic from The New York Post declared the film "so bad it seems almost like a new experience. Judging from the quality of most of the acting and direction, I should guess that it was a quickie film originally scheduled for six days' shooting but shortened to four" and concluded that "Buried Alive heads the January mustn't list."
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BURIED ALIVE (1939) Beverly Roberts, Robert Wilcox & Paul McVey | Drama, Thriller | B&W
Buried Alive is a 1939 film directed by Victor Halperin.
SYNOPSIS
A prison trustee rescues a despondent executioner from a bar-room brawl, and is blamed for the fight by a tabloid reporter who actually started it, and loses parole, becomes embittered, and gets blamed for murder of guard.
CAST & CREW
Beverly Roberts as Joan Wright
Robert Wilcox as Johnny Martin
Paul McVey as Jim Henderson
Ted Osborne as Ira Hanes (as Ted Osborn)
George Pembroke as Ernie Matthews (as Geo. Pembroke)
Stephen Chase as Dr. Robert Lee (as Alden Chase)
George Lynn as Gus Barth (as Peter Lynn)
Wheeler Oakman as Manning
Norman Budd as The Kid
Ben Alexander as Riley
Boyd Irwin as Rutledge
Edward Earle as Charlie Blake
Dave O'Brien as Carson
Robert McKenzie as Al Garrity (as Bob McKenzie)
Don Rowan as Big Billy
Directed by: Victor Halperin
Screenplay by: George Bricker
Story by: William A. Ullman Jr.
Produced by: Ben N. Judell
Cinematography: Jack Greenhalgh
Edited by: Holbrook Todd
Production Company: Producers Pictures Corp.
Distributed by: Producers Pictures Corp.
Release Date: November 6, 1939
Running Time: 62 minutes
Country: United States
NOTES
After finishing Torture Ship, director Victor Halperin started production on his next film Buried Alive. The film began shooting in the first half of October 1939 for Producer's Pictures Corporation.
Actor Clem Wilenchick (aka Crane Whitley) was scheduled to play the character of Manning, but as the shooting began he was replaced by Wheeler Oakman. The Call Bureau Cast Service initially mentioned that Archie Twitchell would portray Carson, and was replaced by Dave O'Brien.
The Film Daily found the film "falls short of being a convincing drama. It will probably be okay as program material in the smalle nabe houses" but found Halperin's direction merely "O.K." Variety declared the film "Inferior all the way, particularly in its direction and playing, outside of Beverly Roberts".
A critic from The New York Post declared the film "so bad it seems almost like a new experience. Judging from the quality of most of the acting and direction, I should guess that it was a quickie film originally scheduled for six days' shooting but shortened to four" and concluded that "Buried Alive heads the January mustn't list."
122
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CODE OF THE CACTUS (1939) Tim McCoy, Dorothy Short & Ben Corbett | Western | COLORIZED
Code of the Cactus is a 1939 American Western film directed by Sam Newfield.
SYNOPSIS
When Blackton outbids Bill Carson. Bill suspects he will have to rustle cattle to fulfill the contract. So Bill arrives posing as an Mexican. When he rustles the cattle from the rustlers, it gets him into the gang. Hoping to bring them all to justice, he is in trouble when his true identity is revealed.
CAST & CREW
Tim McCoy as "Lightning" Bill Carson / Miguel
Ben Corbett as Magpie
Dorothy Short as Joan
Ted Adams as Thurston
Stephen Chase as Foreman James
Dave O'Brien as Bob Swane
Forrest Taylor as Blackton
Bob Terry as Lefty, gang truck driver
Slim Whitaker as Sheriff Burton
Frank Wayne as Jake, gang truck shotgun
Director: Sam Newfield
Writer: Edward Halperin (original story and screenplay)
Producer: Sam Katzman
Cinematography: Marcel Le Picard
Editing: Holbrook N. Todd
Release Date: February 25, 1939
Running Time: 56 minutes
Country: United States
Language: English
77
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CODE OF THE CACTUS (1939) Tim McCoy, Dorothy Short & Ben Corbett | Western | B&W
Code of the Cactus is a 1939 American Western film directed by Sam Newfield.
SYNOPSIS
When Blackton outbids Bill Carson. Bill suspects he will have to rustle cattle to fulfill the contract. So Bill arrives posing as an Mexican. When he rustles the cattle from the rustlers, it gets him into the gang. Hoping to bring them all to justice, he is in trouble when his true identity is revealed.
CAST & CREW
Tim McCoy as "Lightning" Bill Carson / Miguel
Ben Corbett as Magpie
Dorothy Short as Joan
Ted Adams as Thurston
Stephen Chase as Foreman James
Dave O'Brien as Bob Swane
Forrest Taylor as Blackton
Bob Terry as Lefty, gang truck driver
Slim Whitaker as Sheriff Burton
Frank Wayne as Jake, gang truck shotgun
Director: Sam Newfield
Writer: Edward Halperin (original story and screenplay)
Producer: Sam Katzman
Cinematography: Marcel Le Picard
Editing: Holbrook N. Todd
Release Date: February 25, 1939
Running Time: 56 minutes
Country: United States
Language: English
72
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CODE OF THE FEARLESS (1939) Fred Scott, Claire Rochelle & John Merton | Romance, Western | B&W
Code of the Fearless is a 1939 American Western film directed by Raymond K. Johnson and written by Fred Myton. The film stars Fred Scott, Claire Rochelle, John Merton, Walter McGrail, George Sherwood and Harry Harvey Sr. The film was released on January 5, 1939, by Spectrum Pictures.
SYNOPSIS
When it appears that Fred Jamison is a member of Red's gang, he is kicked out of the Rangers. Unbeknownst to others, this action is part of a clandestine plan concocted between Fred and the Ranger Captain. Fred's expulsion from the Rangers marks the beginning of his undercover mission to infiltrate Red Kane and Jim Davis' gang from within, aiming to dismantle it from the inside out while maintaining the guise of an outlaw.
CAST & CREW
Fred Scott as Fred Jamison
Claire Rochelle as Jean Morrison
John Merton as Red Kane
Walter McGrail as Captain Rawlins
George Sherwood as Jim Davis
Harry Harvey Sr. as Old Timer
William Woods as Li Hung Lo
Donald Gallaher as Pete Howard
Director: Raymond K. Johnson
Screenplay: Fred Myton
Producer: C.C. Burr
Cinematography: Elmer Dyer
Editing: Charles Henkel Jr.
Production Company: C.C. Burr Productions
Distributed by: Spectrum Pictures
Release Date: January 5, 1939
Running Time: 56 minutes
Country: United States
Language: English
67
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CONVICT'S CODE (1939) Robert Kent, Anne Nagel & Sidney Blackmer | Drama, Crime | COLORIZED
Convict's Code is a 1939 American film directed by Lambert Hillyer.
SYNOPSIS
After spending three years in prison for a crime he didn't commit, former football player, Jake, is finally released on limited parole. Determined to clear his name and find the true culprits, he starts investigating the case on his own. However, his quest takes an unexpected turn when he crosses paths with his former teammate, Mark, who had framed him for the crime in the first place. Now, Jake must navigate the dangerous game of uncovering the truth while facing off against the very person who put him behind bars.
CAST & CREW
Robert Kent as Dave Tyler
Anne Nagel as Julie Warren
Sidney Blackmer as Gregory Warren
Victor Kilian as Bennett
Norman Willis as Russell
Maude Eburne as Mrs. Magruder
Ben Alexander as Jeff Palmer
Pat Flaherty as Sniffy
Carleton Young as Pete Jennings
Howard C. Hickman as Warden
Joan Barclay as Elaine
Harry Strang as Tom Lynch
Director: Lambert Hillyer
Writer: John W. Krafft
Producers: E.B. Derr
Cinematography: Arthur Martinelli
Editing: Russell F. Schoengarth
Music: Abe Meyer
Production Company: Monogram Pictures
Release Date: January 18, 1939
Running Time: 62 minutes
Country: United States
Language: English
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COSSACKS IN EXILE aka Запорожець за Дунаєм (1939) Maria Sokil & F. Braznick | Drama, Musical | B&W
The film is based on the comic opera Zaporožech' za Dunajem (Запорожець за Дунаєм, "A Zaporogo beyond the Danube") by the Ukrainian composer Semen Stepanovyč Hulak-Artemovs'kyj (1813-1873), who also wrote the related libretto . The producer and screenwriter Vasile Avramenko, director of a Ukrainian dance company had in the past also produced Ulmer's Natalka Poltavka.
SYNOPSIS
This musical comedy tells the tale of the resilient Cossack refugees, exiled to the Ottoman Empire after their fortress was razed to the ground by Tsarist Russia. Led by the indomitable Ivan Karas, the Cossacks defiantly refuse to submit to the Tsar's demands, clinging to their cherished autonomy.
As they seek refuge in the Danube Delta under Ottoman rule, they encounter unexpected twists and turns. Ivan, determined to protect his people, disguises himself and ventures into the heart of the Ottoman court. There, he crosses paths with the Turkish sultan and finds an unlikely ally in him.
Meanwhile, amidst the chaos of displacement, romance blossoms between Oxana, the sultan's adopted daughter, and Andrey, a brave Cossack. But their love faces peril as they are accused of espionage, facing the threat of execution.
Through a lively blend of music, humor, and heart, "Cossack Chronicles: Refugees of the Danube" celebrates the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. With spirited performances and toe-tapping tunes, this musical extravaganza delivers a tale of love, courage, and the triumph of the human will against all odds.
CAST & CREW
Maria Sokil as Odarka
L. Biberowich as Catherine II
F. BraznickOld as Cossack
Dimitri Creona as Kobzar
Jean Harasymyk as Hassan
Nicholas Harlash as Sultan
V. Kikevitch as Kalnyshewsky (as General V. Kikevitch)
N. Mandryka as Gen. Tekely
S. Mostowy as Prokip
Anna Mushinsky as Neboha
Helen Orlenco as Pxana
Stepan Shagaida as Stepan's grandfather
Michael Shvetz as Ivan Karas
Alexis Tcherkasshy as Andrey
William Yacyna as Solo dancer
Vladimir Zelitsky as Selih-Agha
Screenplay: Vasile Avramenko
Director: Edgar G. Ulmer
Producers: MJ Gann, Vasile Avramenko
Cinematography: W. Miller, Leo Lipp
Editor: Jack Kemp
Music: Semen Stepanovič Hulak-Artemovs'kyj, Anthony Riudnicky
Production Company: Avramenko Film Company
Country of Production: United States of America
Year: 1939
Language: English, Ukrainian
NOTES
Cossacks in Exile was filmed in New Jersey on the grounds of a Catholic monastery , with an estimated budget of $75,000
77
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CONVICT'S CODE (1939) Robert Kent, Anne Nagel & Sidney Blackmer | Drama, Crime, Film-Noir | B&W
Convict's Code is a 1939 American film directed by Lambert Hillyer.
SYNOPSIS
After spending three years in prison for a crime he didn't commit, former football player, Jake, is finally released on limited parole. Determined to clear his name and find the true culprits, he starts investigating the case on his own. However, his quest takes an unexpected turn when he crosses paths with his former teammate, Mark, who had framed him for the crime in the first place. Now, Jake must navigate the dangerous game of uncovering the truth while facing off against the very person who put him behind bars.
CAST & CREW
Robert Kent as Dave Tyler
Anne Nagel as Julie Warren
Sidney Blackmer as Gregory Warren
Victor Kilian as Bennett
Norman Willis as Russell
Maude Eburne as Mrs. Magruder
Ben Alexander as Jeff Palmer
Pat Flaherty as Sniffy
Carleton Young as Pete Jennings
Howard C. Hickman as Warden
Joan Barclay as Elaine
Harry Strang as Tom Lynch
Director: Lambert Hillyer
Writer: John W. Krafft
Producers: E.B. Derr
Cinematography: Arthur Martinelli
Editing: Russell F. Schoengarth
Music: Abe Meyer
Production Company: Monogram Pictures
Release Date: January 18, 1939
Running Time: 62 minutes
Country: United States
Language: English
56
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5
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