The Front Page

The Front Page

Year: 1931

Runtime: 101 min

Language: English

Director: Lewis Milestone

Comedy

A seasoned reporter, Hildy Johnson, decides to leave his career to marry Peggy Grant. However, his editor, Walter Burns, isn't ready to let him go, and concocts a scheme to keep him on board for one last story. Hildy finds himself embroiled in the pursuit of Earl Williams, an escaped convict whose guilt or innocence remains a mystery. The pursuit leads to humorous clashes and a race against time as Hildy grapples with his personal happiness and the lure of a major news story.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – The Front Page (1931)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Front Page (1931). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Location

Chicago's Criminal Courts Building, Cook County Jail

The film is set in the gritty atmosphere of Chicago's Criminal Courts Building, a hub of legal and political maneuvering. Overlooking the notorious Cook County Jail, this location is vital for the unfolding drama, as it symbolizes the intersection of justice and corruption in the city.

🏛️ Building 🏙️ City

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:25

Main Characters – The Front Page (1931)

Meet the key characters of The Front Page (1931), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Hildy Johnson

Hildy Johnson is the charismatic star reporter of the Examiner, known for his bold personality and sharp wit. Torn between his desire for a more stable life and the lure of a groundbreaking story, he embodies the conflict between personal ambition and moral responsibility.

📰 Reporter 💔 Torn

Walter Burns

Walter Burns is the cunning managing editor of the Examiner, a man who embodies the cutthroat nature of journalism. His manipulative tactics keep Hildy entangled in the world of reporting, highlighting the ruthless side of the newspaper business.

📋 Editor 😈 Manipulative

Earl Williams

Earl Williams is a central figure in the narrative, portrayed as a misunderstood man caught in a web of political deceit. His claim of innocence raises questions about guilt, innocence, and the price of being a scapegoat.

🤔 Innocent 💔 Victim

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:25

Major Themes – The Front Page (1931)

Explore the central themes of The Front Page (1931), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

📰 Journalism

The movie explores the world of journalism, showcasing the ethical dilemmas and moral conflicts faced by reporters. Hildy Johnson's journey illustrates the challenges of pursuing truth in a profession often clouded by deception and sensationalism.

⚖️ Justice

At its core, the film critiques the justice system, highlighting the manipulation of truth for political gain. The character of Earl Williams serves as a reflection of how innocence can be overshadowed by corruption and the urgent need for a just society.

💔 Sacrifice

The theme of sacrifice is evident as Hildy grapples with his career ambitions and personal relationships. His decision to help Earl Williams speaks to the larger question of what one is willing to risk for the sake of truth and integrity.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:25

Unlock the Full Story of The Front Page

Don't stop at just watching — explore The Front Page in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what The Front Page is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The Front Page Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Front Page, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

The Front Page Summary

The Front Page Timeline

Track the full timeline of The Front Page with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

The Front Page Timeline

More About The Front Page

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Front Page: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About The Front Page

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