The Front Page

The Front Page

Year: 1931

Runtime: 101 min

Language: English

Director: Lewis Milestone

Comedy

In this sidesplitting comedy, ace reporter Hildy Johnson trades in his typewriter for a wedding veil when he falls for Peggy Grant. But editor Walter Burns won't let him slip away so easily, orchestrating one last desperate attempt to snag the scoop of a lifetime - the escaped Earl Williams, notorious convict or innocent man?

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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

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