The American Hobo: History of the Railriding Worker
The American Hobo: History of the Railriding Worker

Movie spotlight

The American Hobo: History of the Railriding Worker

2003
Movie
54 min
English

Ernest Borgnine, star of the classic train movie Emperor of the North, hosts and narrates this remarkable examination of the uniquely American Hobo.

Insights

IMDb7.5/10
Director: Arthur RosenfeldGenres: Documentary

Plot Summary

This documentary explores the rich history of the American hobo, examining their journeys, their role in American labor history, and the culture that developed around railriding. It delves into the reasons why individuals took to the rails, from economic hardship to a desire for freedom. The film features interviews with former hobos, historians, and archival footage to paint a vivid picture of this unique subculture.

Critical Reception

The documentary was generally well-received by critics for its thorough exploration of a often-overlooked aspect of American history. It was praised for its informative content and for giving a voice to a marginalized group. While not a mainstream blockbuster, it found an appreciative audience among documentary enthusiasts and those interested in social history.

What Reviewers Say

  • An insightful and comprehensive look into the lives of American hobos.

  • Successfully captures the spirit and struggles of railriding workers.

  • An important historical document that gives voice to the voiceless.

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Fun Fact

The documentary draws heavily on oral histories and archival materials, bringing to life the personal stories and societal context of the hobo phenomenon in America.

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