42nd Street - 1933
back| Released by | Warner Bros. |
| Director | Lloyd Bacon |
| Producer | Darryl F. Zanuck |
| Script | Based on the novel by Bradford Ropes Screenplay by Rian James and James Seymour |
| Cinematography | Sol Polito |
| Music by | Songs by Harry Warren (music) and Al Dubin (lyrics) - Background score by Leo F. Forbstein |
| Running time | 89 minutes |
| Film budget | $439,000 |
| Box office sales | $2 million |
| Main cast | Warner Baxter - Ruby Keeler - Bebe Dniels - George Brent - Una Merkel - Ginger Rogers |
42nd Street
An Electrifying Musical that Celebrates Ambition and the Transformative Magic of Broadway
42nd Street is a classic pre-Code backstage musical that became a cultural landmark, showcasing dazzling choreography by Busby Berkeley and launching the career of Ruby Keeler. The film is celebrated for its vibrant musical numbers and its depiction of the hardships and triumphs of the theatrical world during the Great Depression.
42nd Street – 1933
Summary
42nd Street begins in Depression-era New York City, where veteran Broadway director Julian Marsh (Warner Baxter) is struggling to stage a new musical production, Pretty Lady. Despite being a well-known and respected director, Marsh’s career is marred by ill health and financial troubles brought on by the stock market crash. Determined to make Pretty Lady a hit, Marsh is relentless in pushing the cast and crew to their limits.
The production is bankrolled by a wealthy but lecherous businessman, Abner Dillon (Guy Kibbee), who is romantically involved with Dorothy Brock (Bebe Daniels), the star of the show. However, Dorothy is secretly in love with her former vaudeville partner, Pat Denning (George Brent). This love triangle creates tension on and off the stage, as Abner grows jealous and threatens to pull his funding when he learns about Dorothy’s divided affections.
Among the chorus girls is Peggy Sawyer (Ruby Keeler), a wide-eyed newcomer to the Broadway scene. Peggy arrives late to her audition and is initially overlooked, but her talent and charm eventually secure her a place in the chorus. She quickly befriends two seasoned chorus girls, the wisecracking Ann Lowell (Ginger Rogers) and the flirtatious Lorraine Fleming (Una Merkel), who help her navigate the challenges of life on stage.
During rehearsals, Dorothy’s personal dramas begin to interfere with her performance. When Abner discovers her ongoing relationship with Pat, he has Pat beaten up and orders Dorothy to sever ties with him. Despite the chaos, Marsh manages to keep the production afloat, driven by his singular obsession with staging a successful show.
Disaster strikes on the eve of the premiere when Dorothy twists her ankle during a rehearsal. With the lead incapacitated, Marsh must find a replacement on short notice. Peggy is reluctantly thrust into the starring role. Initially hesitant and overwhelmed, Peggy rises to the occasion with encouragement from Marsh, who delivers the now-famous pep talk:
"You're going out there a youngster, but you've got to come back a star!"
On opening night, Peggy dazzles the audience with her performance, and Pretty Lady is a resounding success. The film concludes with a jubilant crowd and Marsh quietly reflecting on his achievement, knowing that while the show has brought him acclaim, his health and well-being have been further sacrificed for the art he loves.
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Analysis
42nd Street is not just a backstage musical; it’s a cultural artifact that reflects the hopes, struggles, and aspirations of Depression-era America. The film’s central themes of perseverance, ambition, and redemption resonate deeply with audiences of its time and remain timeless.
Character Dynamics
• Julian Marsh embodies the tortured genius archetype. His obsession with his work highlights the sacrifices that artists often make for their craft. Marsh’s complex personality — both tyrannical and compassionate — drives the tension and urgency of the narrative.
• Peggy Sawyer represents the quintessential underdog. Her transformation from an inexperienced chorus girl to a shining star is the heart of the story, symbolizing the promise of the American Dream even in hard times.
• The supporting cast, particularly Ann Lowell and Lorraine Fleming, adds humor and humanity to the story, providing a glimpse into the camaraderie and challenges of showbiz life.
Social Context
The film was released during the Great Depression, and its narrative reflects the economic struggles of the time. The characters’ dedication to their work despite financial insecurity mirrors the resilience of the American spirit. Additionally, the film’s depiction of Broadway as a cutthroat yet magical world provides an escapist fantasy for audiences dealing with harsh realities.
Busby Berkeley’s Choreography
The musical numbers, choreographed by Busby Berkeley, are the film’s most iconic element. Berkeley’s innovative use of geometric patterns, overhead camera angles, and elaborate staging transformed the musical genre. The numbers, especially the titular 42nd Street sequence, are visually stunning and remain influential in cinema history.
Themes
• The Show Must Go On: This adage is embodied in every aspect of the story, from Marsh’s relentless pursuit of perfection to Peggy’s last-minute ascension to stardom.
• Ambition and Sacrifice: Both Marsh and Peggy sacrifice their well-being for the sake of the production, highlighting the costs of pursuing greatness.
• Love vs. Duty: Dorothy’s personal conflicts illustrate the tension between personal desires and professional obligations.
Cultural Impact
42nd Street redefined the movie musical by integrating song-and-dance numbers into the narrative rather than treating them as standalone performances. Its success paved the way for subsequent Warner Bros. musicals and solidified Busby Berkeley’s legacy as a groundbreaking choreographer.
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Conclusion
42nd Street is a landmark film that transcends its genre. While it entertains with its lavish musical sequences and sharp humor, it also offers a poignant exploration of human ambition and resilience. The film remains a testament to the enduring allure of the Broadway stage and the universal appeal of a well-told underdog story.
Classic Trailer 42nd Street
Full Cast
• Warner Baxter as Julian Marsh
• Bebe Daniels as Dorothy Brock
• George Brent as Pat Denning
• Ruby Keeler as Peggy Sawyer
• Una Merkel as Lorraine Fleming
• Ginger Rogers as Ann "Anytime Annie" Lowell
• Dick Powell as Billy Lawler
• Guy Kibbee as Abner Dillon
• Ned Sparks as Barry (stage manager)
• Edward J. Nugent as Terry
• Robert McWade as Jones
• George E. Stone as Andy Lee
• Allen Jenkins as Mac Elroy
• Toby Wing as Blonde in "Young and Healthy" Number
• Lyle Talbot as Stage Actor (uncredited)
Analysis of Lloyd Bacon’s Direction
Balancing Realism with Escapism
Bacon’s greatest achievement lies in his ability to ground the film’s larger-than-life elements in emotional realism. The backstage story of 42nd Street is steeped in the struggles of the Great Depression — financial insecurity, health crises, and the relentless pursuit of success. Bacon effectively captures the human drama of these moments, such as Julian Marsh’s deteriorating health and Peggy Sawyer’s vulnerability as a newcomer. At the same time, he allows the film’s musical numbers to serve as a form of escapism, offering audiences dazzling entertainment amidst the grittier aspects of the plot.
Character-Centric Approach
Bacon ensures that the film’s characters remain its emotional core. The relationships between Julian Marsh, Peggy Sawyer, Dorothy Brock, and the ensemble are developed with subtlety and care. For instance:
• Marsh’s authoritarian yet empathetic leadership is depicted through both his interactions with the cast and his private moments of vulnerability.
• Peggy’s rise to stardom is portrayed not as a sudden transformation but as the result of her perseverance and latent talent, making her arc feel authentic.
• Dorothy’s conflicted emotions between her professional obligations and personal desires are presented with nuance, giving her depth beyond being a stereotypical diva.
Bacon’s sensitivity to the emotional arcs of his characters ensures that audiences remain invested in the story, even as the plot transitions into the more fantastical musical sequences.
Pacing and Narrative Flow
Bacon’s direction ensures a tight and engaging pace throughout the film. The story transitions smoothly between dramatic rehearsals, interpersonal conflicts, and the climactic performance. The buildup to Peggy’s moment in the spotlight is particularly well-handled, creating tension and anticipation that pay off with her triumphant debut.
By maintaining a brisk pace, Bacon keeps the audience engaged without lingering too long on any single subplot. This economy of storytelling was a hallmark of Warner Bros. films of the era and reflects Bacon’s skill in delivering a film that feels lean yet complete.
Collaboration with Busby Berkeley
One of the most remarkable aspects of 42nd Street is the seamless integration of Lloyd Bacon’s grounded direction with Busby Berkeley’s innovative choreography. While Berkeley’s musical numbers are spectacles of geometric precision and visual creativity, Bacon’s direction provides the connective tissue that gives these sequences context and emotional weight. For example:
• The “Shuffle Off to Buffalo” and “Young and Healthy” numbers are not only visually stunning but also feel like natural extensions of the story, thanks to Bacon’s framing of the performers and their interactions.
• The titular “42nd Street” sequence is the culmination of the narrative, and Bacon ensures that its grandeur feels earned by showing the labor and effort behind its creation.
This collaborative synergy is a testament to Bacon’s ability to direct within the studio system, respecting the contributions of his collaborators while maintaining a unified vision.
Visual Storytelling
While Busby Berkeley is often credited with the film’s most striking visuals, Bacon also demonstrates an eye for effective staging and framing:
• The rehearsal scenes are shot with an emphasis on movement and energy, capturing the chaos and camaraderie of putting on a Broadway show.
• Close-ups and medium shots are used strategically to highlight the characters’ emotions, such as Julian Marsh’s intensity or Peggy Sawyer’s nervous determination.
• The backstage settings are rendered with a sense of authenticity, reflecting the hard work and grit behind the glamour of Broadway.
Thematic Depth
Bacon’s direction reinforces the film’s central themes of ambition, sacrifice, and resilience. By focusing on the human cost of putting on a Broadway production, Bacon elevates the story beyond a simple musical comedy. Julian Marsh’s obsessive drive and Peggy Sawyer’s breakthrough moment are both depicted with a rawness that underscores the high stakes of show business. This thematic depth gives the film a resonance that extends beyond its era.
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Conclusion
Lloyd Bacon’s direction of 42nd Street is a masterclass in storytelling that balances character-driven drama with spectacular entertainment. His ability to ground the film’s dazzling musical numbers in a relatable narrative ensures that the audience remains emotionally invested from start to finish. While Busby Berkeley’s choreography provides the visual dazzle, it is Bacon’s steady and thoughtful direction that transforms 42nd Street into a timeless classic, seamlessly blending artifice and authenticity.
Analysis of Warner Baxter’s Performance
Authoritative Presence
Baxter establishes Julian Marsh as a man of uncompromising authority from his very first appearance. His body language — upright, deliberate, and purposeful — exudes the confidence and intensity of a director who commands respect. Whether he’s giving instructions to the cast, reprimanding a crew member, or rallying the team, Baxter’s firm tone and sharp delivery convey Marsh’s unyielding determination to produce a successful show.
Key moments, such as his infamous line “We’re putting on a show, not a picnic!”, underline his ability to assert control while maintaining an undercurrent of desperation, hinting at the immense pressure he’s under.
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Vulnerability Beneath the Tough Exterior
While Baxter’s Julian Marsh is often brusque and domineering, he infuses the character with subtle vulnerability, allowing the audience to empathize with his struggles. This duality makes Marsh a fully realized character rather than a mere caricature of a demanding director.
• Physicality: Baxter’s portrayal of Marsh’s failing health is particularly poignant. From the moments when he coughs or leans wearily against a table, Baxter uses physical cues to show that Marsh’s obsessive commitment to his craft comes at a personal cost.
• Emotional Layers: Marsh’s private moments of reflection — such as when he looks out at the empty theater, contemplating his legacy — reveal the depth of his internal conflict. Baxter’s expressions convey a mixture of pride, regret, and exhaustion, adding complexity to the character.
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Charismatic Leadership
One of Baxter’s greatest strengths in the role is his ability to make Julian Marsh both fearsome and inspiring. Despite Marsh’s tough exterior, Baxter imbues him with a magnetic charisma that draws the cast and crew to follow his lead. This is most evident in the iconic pep talk before Peggy’s big debut, where Baxter delivers the rousing line:
"You’re going out there a youngster, but you’ve got to come back a star!"
Baxter’s delivery in this scene is a masterclass in modulation. His voice is firm but encouraging, his intensity unwavering, and his confidence contagious. This moment solidifies Marsh not just as a demanding director but as a mentor who genuinely believes in Peggy’s potential.
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Embodiment of Sacrifice
Baxter portrays Julian Marsh as a man consumed by his work, embodying the theme of sacrifice that runs throughout the film. Marsh’s obsession with making Pretty Lady a success is driven not only by his financial struggles but also by his desire to prove himself one last time. Baxter captures this relentless drive through his restless energy and moments of self-doubt, making Marsh’s triumph at the end feel both bittersweet and earned.
The final scene, where Marsh quietly leaves the theater as the audience applauds Peggy’s performance, is particularly poignant. Baxter’s subdued exit speaks volumes about Marsh’s character — a man who has given everything to the production but remains in the shadows, his work complete.
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Contrast to Supporting Characters
Baxter’s performance is further highlighted by the contrast between Julian Marsh and the other characters. While Peggy Sawyer (Ruby Keeler) represents youthful optimism and Dorothy Brock (Bebe Daniels) embodies the diva archetype, Baxter’s Marsh is the seasoned veteran whose experience and weariness ground the story. This contrast emphasizes the stakes and gravitas of Marsh’s role in the production, as well as his unique perspective on the sacrifices required for success.
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Conclusion
Warner Baxter’s portrayal of Julian Marsh is a cornerstone of 42nd Street, offering a blend of authority, vulnerability, and charisma that elevates the character to iconic status. His ability to balance the character’s toughness with subtle emotional depth makes Marsh a compelling and relatable figure. Baxter’s performance not only drives the film’s narrative but also serves as a poignant exploration of ambition, sacrifice, and the human cost of artistic greatness. It remains one of the standout performances of his career and a defining element of the film’s enduring appeal.
Notable Film Quotes
Julian Marsh (Warner Baxter)
• "Sawyer, you’re going out a youngster, but you’ve got to come back a star!"
o Perhaps the most iconic line in the film, this pep talk encapsulates the high stakes and emotional intensity of the theater world. Julian Marsh delivers it to Peggy Sawyer just before her big debut.
• "The two most beautiful words in the English language: 'musical comedy'!"
o This line reflects Marsh’s passion for the theater and his belief in the magic of musicals.
• "We're putting on a show, not a picnic!"
o A classic example of Marsh's no-nonsense approach to directing, emphasizing the discipline required to create a successful production.
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Peggy Sawyer (Ruby Keeler)
• "I can't do it, Mr. Marsh! I’ll just let everyone down!"
o Peggy’s self-doubt before her breakthrough moment highlights her vulnerability and sets the stage for her transformation.
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Ann "Anytime Annie" Lowell (Ginger Rogers)
• "It must have been hard on your mother, not having any children!"
o A witty and sharp retort, showcasing Annie’s quick humor and personality.
• "She only said 'no' once, and then she didn’t hear the question!"
o Annie delivers this cheeky line in reference to herself, adding a touch of comic relief.
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Dorothy Brock (Bebe Daniels)
• "You're not going to get anywhere in this business unless you know the right people!"
o Dorothy’s reflection on the harsh realities of show business and the importance of connections in the entertainment world.
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Julian Marsh to the Cast
• "Now listen, Sawyer, and listen hard. Two hundred people, 200 jobs, $200,000, five weeks of grind, and blood and sweat depend on you. It’s the lives of all these people who have worked with you. You've got to go on and you've got to give and give and give. They’ve all got to like you, understand you, and believe you."
o A powerful monologue by Marsh, emphasizing the stakes of the performance and the responsibility placed on Peggy’s shoulders.
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Lorraine Fleming (Una Merkel)
• "I'll take vanilla."
o Lorraine humorously responds to Annie's joking suggestion that she should "take your pick," showing the playful camaraderie among the chorus girls.
Classic Scenes from 42nd Street
Peggy Sawyer’s Arrival and First Audition
Peggy Sawyer (Ruby Keeler) enters the chaotic world of Broadway as a timid newcomer. Her late arrival at the audition immediately sets her apart as an underdog. The scene establishes her character’s vulnerability and determination, and the camaraderie between the chorus girls begins to emerge. This moment highlights Peggy’s innocence and sets the stage for her eventual transformation.
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“Shuffle Off to Buffalo” Musical Number
This playful and cheeky sequence is one of the film’s standout moments. The song features Lorraine Fleming (Una Merkel) and her comedic delivery alongside the ensemble cast. The number is a witty commentary on honeymoon culture, complete with Busby Berkeley’s intricate choreography. Overhead camera shots and synchronized movements elevate the scene to visual art, showcasing Berkeley’s pioneering style.
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Julian Marsh’s Pep Talk
One of the film’s most emotionally charged scenes occurs when Julian Marsh (Warner Baxter) delivers his famous pep talk to Peggy Sawyer before her big debut. Marsh tells Peggy:
"Sawyer, you’re going out a youngster, but you’ve got to come back a star!"
This scene is the dramatic heart of the film, encapsulating the stakes of Broadway life. Warner Baxter’s commanding performance emphasizes the pressure, excitement, and emotional weight of show business.
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The “Young and Healthy” Musical Number
This sequence is an exuberant showcase of youth and vitality, with Dick Powell and a dazzling chorus taking center stage. Busby Berkeley’s signature kaleidoscopic patterns and camera angles create a mesmerizing visual spectacle. The song celebrates romance and energy, reflecting the optimism and escapism that audiences sought during the Great Depression.
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The Titular “42nd Street” Finale
The climactic performance of 42nd Street is a masterwork of choreography and visual storytelling. The scene begins with the bustling chaos of the New York streets and transitions into a stunning Broadway production. Peggy Sawyer, in her first starring role, captivates the audience with her dancing and charm. Berkeley’s dynamic use of cinematic techniques—overhead shots, fluid camera movement, and synchronized formations—brings the entire stage to life.
The number’s depiction of city life, with its complexity and vibrancy, serves as both a celebration and critique of the Broadway machine. It is a fitting finale that ties together the film’s themes of ambition and artistry.
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Julian Marsh’s Silent Exit
After the success of Pretty Lady, Julian Marsh slips away from the applause and celebration. This understated scene is a poignant moment for Marsh, as it reflects the toll his obsessive dedication has taken on his health and spirit. Baxter’s quiet performance here emphasizes the sacrifices of a life devoted to the theater, leaving a bittersweet impression on the audience.
Awards and Recognition
Academy Awards (1934):
• Nominated for Best Picture.
• Nominated for Best Sound Recording (Nathan Levinson, sound director).
National Film Preservation Board, USA:
• In 1998, the film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress for being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant."
Online Film & Television Association:
• In 2024, 42nd Street was inducted into the OFTA Film Hall of Fame in the Motion Picture category.