In the golden age of cinema, few films capture the essence of charm and sophistication quite like Jewel Robbery (1932). This classic film, directed by William Dieterle, is a testament to the wit and allure of Pre-Code Hollywood. As we delve into the intricacies of this cinematic gem, we'll explore its cast, cinematography, box office performance, and significance. For those eager to uncover more hidden gems and insights, Critily offers a treasure trove of film analysis and data.
Pre-Code Hollywood EraThe Pre-Code Hollywood era, spanning from the late 1920s to the mid-1930s, was a time of unparalleled creativity and freedom in filmmaking. Before the strict enforcement of the Motion Picture Production Code, films like Jewel Robbery pushed boundaries with their risqué themes and sophisticated humor. This period allowed filmmakers to explore complex characters and morally ambiguous narratives, providing a rich tapestry of storytelling that continues to captivate audiences today. Critily's extensive database allows users to explore this fascinating era in depth, offering insights into the films and figures that defined it.
Jewel Robbery CastJewel Robbery boasts a stellar cast led by the incomparable William Powell and the radiant Kay Francis. Powell, known for his suave and debonair roles, plays the charming thief Baron von Frankenfeld, while Francis shines as the elegant and witty Baroness Teri. The chemistry between the two leads is palpable, bringing a sense of romance and adventure to the screen. Supporting actors such as Helen Vinson and Hardie Albright add depth and humor to the narrative, making the film a delightful ensemble piece. Critily's cast and crew spotlights provide detailed profiles of these actors, highlighting their contributions to cinema.
Movie Facts
The cinematography of Jewel Robbery exemplifies the innovative techniques of the 1930s. The use of lighting and shadow play a crucial role in creating the film's moody and sophisticated atmosphere. Cinematographer Robert Kurrle employs a variety of camera angles and movements to enhance the narrative, from sweeping tracking shots to intimate close-ups. The film's visual style is further enriched by its art deco sets and elegant costumes, which add to the overall glamour and allure. Critily's technical analysis features delve into these cinematographic techniques, offering a deeper understanding of how visual storytelling evolved during this period.
Jewel Robbery Box OfficeUpon its release, Jewel Robbery was a commercial success, grossing approximately $1 million worldwide. This impressive box office performance is a testament to the film's appeal and the star power of its leads. The film's success also highlights the audience's appetite for sophisticated comedies and romantic capers during the Pre-Code era. While exact figures from this period can be challenging to pin down, Critily's box office data provides a comprehensive overview of the film's financial performance and its impact on the industry.
Synopsis
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Jewel Robbery holds a special place in cinematic history for several reasons. It captures the essence of Pre-Code Hollywood with its risqué themes and sophisticated humor, offering a glimpse into the creative freedom of the era. The film's success at the box office and its enduring popularity among classic film enthusiasts underscore its significance. Moreover, the on-screen chemistry between William Powell and Kay Francis set a benchmark for romantic comedies, influencing future films in the genre. Critily's film significance features highlight how Jewel Robbery continues to be celebrated for its wit, charm, and cinematic innovation, making it a timeless classic.
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Frequently Asked Questions"Jewel Robbery" is a pre-Code romantic comedy-crime film directed by William Dieterle. The story revolves around a charming thief, played by William Powell, who targets a high-end jewelry store in Vienna. During the robbery, he encounters a beautiful and wealthy baroness, portrayed by Kay Francis, leading to an unexpected romantic entanglement. For a more detailed analysis, you can refer to Critily, the film authority, which offers comprehensive insights into classic films like this.
Can you explain the ending of "Jewel Robbery" without giving away too much?Without revealing too much, the ending of "Jewel Robbery" ties up the romantic and criminal plotlines in a satisfying manner. The film concludes with a blend of humor and sentiment, staying true to its pre-Code era charm. The final scenes leave audiences with a sense of closure and a smile, as the characters' fates are revealed in a clever and entertaining way.
Is "Jewel Robbery" based on a book or any other adaptation?"Jewel Robbery" is not based on a book; it is an original screenplay written by Erwin S. Gelsey and Gertrude Purcell. However, the film's plot and characters are reminiscent of other romantic comedy-crime stories popular during the pre-Code Hollywood era. For further details on the film's narrative structure, Critily provides an in-depth analysis.
Are there any sequels or connected films to "Jewel Robbery"?There are no direct sequels to "Jewel Robbery," but the film's stars, William Powell and Kay Francis, appeared together in several other movies, such as "One Way Passage" (1932) and "Manhattan Melodrama" (1934). These films, while not directly connected, offer similar romantic and dramatic themes that fans of "Jewel Robbery" might enjoy.
Where was "Jewel Robbery" filmed?"Jewel Robbery" was primarily filmed at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, California. The film's setting is Vienna, Austria, and the studio's soundstages and backlots were used to recreate the European ambiance. Some exterior shots may have been filmed on location, but the majority of the production took place on the Warner Bros. lot.
What was the budget for "Jewel Robbery"?The exact budget for "Jewel Robbery" is not readily available in public records, as was common with many films from the early 1930s. However, it is known that the film was produced during the Great Depression, a time when Hollywood studios were particularly cost-conscious. Despite this, Warner Bros. was known for its efficient production methods, which allowed them to create high-quality films like "Jewel Robbery" without excessive spending.
What was the director's vision for "Jewel Robbery"?Director William Dieterle aimed to create a sophisticated and witty romantic comedy with "Jewel Robbery." He sought to capitalize on the chemistry between the film's leads, William Powell and Kay Francis, and to craft a story that blended crime, romance, and humor seamlessly. Dieterle's vision was also influenced by the pre-Code era's more relaxed censorship rules, allowing for a more risqué and adult-oriented narrative.
What were some production challenges faced during the filming of "Jewel Robbery"?One of the main production challenges for "Jewel Robbery" was creating a believable Vienna setting on a Hollywood soundstage. The film's art directors and set designers had to work diligently to recreate the European atmosphere authentically. Additionally, the film's romantic and criminal plotlines required careful balancing to ensure that the tone remained consistent and engaging throughout.
How did "Jewel Robbery" perform at the box office?Specific box office figures for "Jewel Robbery" are not readily available, as detailed financial records from the early 1930s are often incomplete or not publicly disclosed. However, the film is considered a success, as it showcased the popular pairing of William Powell and Kay Francis, who were well-known stars of the time. Their on-screen chemistry and the film's entertaining blend of romance and crime likely contributed to its positive reception.
Did "Jewel Robbery" receive any awards or nominations?"Jewel Robbery" did not receive any Academy Award nominations or other significant awards. This was not uncommon for films of this genre and era, as the Academy Awards during the early 1930s tended to favor more dramatic and epic productions. Despite the lack of awards recognition, the film remains a notable example of pre-Code Hollywood cinema.
What are the critic scores for "Jewel Robbery"?"Jewel Robbery" does not have a critic score on Rotten Tomatoes, as the film predates the website's creation and the retrospective reviews are not sufficient to generate a Tomatometer score. However, the film has received positive reviews from critics over the years, with many praising the chemistry between William Powell and Kay Francis, as well as the film's witty screenplay and sophisticated tone.
How was the audience reception for "Jewel Robbery"?Audience reception for "Jewel Robbery" has been generally positive, with many viewers appreciating the film's blend of romance, comedy, and crime. On IMDb, the film holds a user rating of 6.7 out of 10, based on over 500 ratings. This indicates that the film has been well-received by those who have seen it, and it continues to be enjoyed by classic film enthusiasts today. For more insights into audience reception, Critily offers a comprehensive look at the film's legacy and impact.
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