Movie spotlight
The Great Dawn
In 1917, the people of the Russian Empire are no longer willing to fight Germany, but the bourgeois government of Alexander Kerensky is unwilling to defy its imperialist allies and stop the war. Only Vladimir Lenin's Bolshevik Party is resolute in calling for peace. In the front, the soldiers of one battalion elect three delegates to travel to St. Petersburg with donations the troops collected for the Pravda newspaper: Gudushauri, Panasiuk and Ershov. The three arrive in the capital and describe the horrendous conditions in which the soldiers live to Joseph Stalin, Lenin's trusted aid and colleague. They join the Bolsheviks and take part in the storming of the Winter Palace, led by Stalin and Lenin. Stalin announces that the great dawn of revolution has broken.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young woman from a rural background travels to New York City to seek her fortune and escape her past. She falls in love with a struggling artist, but their relationship is tested by societal pressures and her own ambition. The film explores themes of love, loss, and the pursuit of dreams in a rapidly changing urban landscape.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, 'The Great Dawn' received mixed to positive reviews, with critics often praising the performances of its lead actors, particularly Dolores del Río. While some found the narrative somewhat conventional for its time, many appreciated its romantic elements and visual style. Audience reception was generally favorable, though it did not become a major box office success.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for the compelling performances of Dolores del Río and Henry Fonda.
Noted for its visually appealing cinematography and romantic undertones.
Some critics found the plot predictable, but overall appreciated the emotional depth.
Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews from 1938 is not available.
Fun Fact
The film was originally intended to be a vehicle for another studio's leading lady before Dolores del Río was cast, bringing her distinctive international appeal to the role.
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