A story of disconnection between a Jewish social-climbing son and his Old World parents. Adapted from a play by Fannie Hurst called It Is to Laugh. Starring Jean Hersholt, Lina Basquette, Ricardo Cortez.
This is one of Frank Capra’s first films, and it is has his trademark stamp on it: connecting into the hearts of his characters. A son distances himself from his family, putting more value in money and success, only to learn a valuable lesson in the end that has nothing to do with wealth. Capra’s first talkie film, it flows between silent film and sound segments. Fascinating to watch for both its historical value and the its message, this film is worth a watch.