I have seen this film twice now - I think its really terrific. Gregory Peck - ah ;-)
What I was wondering is - how much of an impact did this film have when it was first released? It may seem a little dated now, but there was some eye opening stuff, which I would think, would have had some people reflecting on how they behaved etc.
Any ideas?
"Everything in this room is eatable. Even I'm eatable. But that’s called cannibalism."
Well at the time it was obviously critically acclaimed (it won the Oscar for best picture). However, it isn't talked much about today when lists of "Great All Time Movies" come up. I'm not saying that's good or bad but it seems to be regarded as another one of those early Best Picture winners that were good in their time but don't hold up as all time greats like Citizen Kane, Casablanca, etc.
As to the public's response I have no idea, sorry can't help you there. I'm sure it was talked about though since WWII just ended and was the defining even of American social culture up until the 60s.
I can't tell you what impact the movie had when it was released. But I CAN tell you this: the actual town Laura Z. Hobson was writing about was Darien, Connecticut. I'm a former resident, and a gentleman's agreement most definitely still exists. Alas, some things never change.
sharein my opinion it didnt had good critism back then because the racism for jews was extreme (they didnt let jews go to the beach), but racism for jews still exist all over the world and if the movie was out today it could be much much better and im sure it could be in the best 100 list (maybe even 10).
im sure jews will think its a great movie while others will probably deny because they dont want to feel bad (back then and now).
1. It's not an opinion weather it had good or bad criticism, it either did or it didn't.
2. You can not be a racist against a religion. That would be prejudice.
3. The movie is out today.
4. What are others denying?
5. Please type so people can understand what you are saying. You know, like punctuation and spelling?
The movie had a slight impact on America, while most other major producers during this time period were Jewish and would have nothing to do with this film, Twentieth Century Fox decided to grab it anyway.
The major theme of antisemitism really pushed the limits in this time period. Most everyone in Hollywood, wanted to brush off the hatred against Jews, but this movie made it known loud and clear.
Many people disregarded the film and hated it moral conflicts, it's a bit extreme to say, but this movie helped or atleast helped start a little known era called the Civil Rights Movement. I don't want to be misquoted saying this movie started it all, of course there were many many other factors, but it helped in some ways.
Also many of the A-Lister's involved with this film were blacklisted and had trouble finding work after this.
So yes this movie did have an impact.
Let's not forget what happened the year after this movie was released--Israel was established. I couldn't help but wonder if the popularity of this movie contributed to the strong US support for its establishment.