The Front Page
The Front Page

The Front Page

1931Movie101 minEnglish

Hildy Johnson is an investigative reporter looking for a bigger paycheck. When an accused murderer escapes from custody, Hildy sees an opportunity for the story of a lifetime. But when he finds the criminal, he learns that the man may not be guilty. With the help of his editor, Hildy attempts to hide the convict, uncover the conspiracy and write the scoop of his career.

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IMDb7.3/10
Director: Lewis MilestoneGenres: Comedy, Drama, Crime

Plot Summary

In the bustling newsroom of the Chicago Herald-Examiner, ace reporter Hildy Johnson is ready to quit the newspaper business and settle down. However, his manipulative editor, Walter Burns, conspires to keep him on the job by fabricating a sensational story and framing an innocent man for a murder. Hildy finds himself drawn back into the thrilling, chaotic world of journalism as he attempts to uncover the truth and escape Burns's schemes.

Critical Reception

The 1931 film adaptation of 'The Front Page' was a critical success, praised for its fast-paced dialogue, sharp wit, and energetic performances. It captured the cynical yet exciting atmosphere of newspaper reporting in the early 20th century. Critics lauded its faithfulness to the acclaimed stage play and its efficient direction.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its sharp, witty dialogue and rapid-fire pacing.
  • The film is celebrated for its energetic portrayal of the cutthroat world of newspaper journalism.
  • Performances, particularly from Adolphe Menjou and Pat O'Brien, were frequently highlighted as strong.

Google audience: Information not available for this early film.

Fun Fact

The film was adapted from the highly successful 1928 Broadway play of the same name, written by Ben Hecht and Charles MacArthur, who were themselves former newspapermen.

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CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

Newspaper man "Hildy" (Pat O'Brien) is heading to New York with his fiancée "Peggy" (Mary Brian) to take a better paid job in the advertising world. His editor "Burns" (Adolphe Menjou) has one last story for him to cover and has to play qui...