Movie spotlight
Lest We Forget
MGM hosts a salute to Will Rogers (1875-1935) shortly after his death. After a few words from Gary Cooper and Harry Carey, a look at Rogers' fatal trip with Wiley Post, clips from Rogers' movies, a proclamation from Oklahoma's governor, and a cowboy ballad sung at sunset. Robert Taylor asks the studio audience to contribute to the Will Rogers Memorial Hospital in Saranac Lake, NY, where those in the entertainment industry could go for treatment. This Sanatorium already exists as the National Vaudeville Artist Lodge and then was renamed after Will Rogers timely death. The screen goes black while ushers collect donations.
Insights
Plot Summary
This Swiss film, set during World War I, follows the lives of several individuals caught in the turmoil of war. It explores themes of duty, sacrifice, and the human cost of conflict, focusing on the personal struggles and moral dilemmas faced by ordinary people in extraordinary times. The narrative weaves together different perspectives to paint a somber picture of wartime existence.
Critical Reception
While specific critical reviews from 1937 are scarce, 'Lest We Forget' is recognized as a significant early anti-war film from Switzerland. It was noted for its serious tone and its attempt to grapple with the recent horrors of World War I, resonating with audiences who had experienced the conflict firsthand. Its reception was generally thoughtful, focusing on its thematic weight rather than sensationalism.
What Reviewers Say
A somber and thought-provoking depiction of the impact of World War I.
Explores the personal sacrifices and moral complexities of wartime.
Recognized for its earnest anti-war message in its era.
Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for this 1937 film is not readily available.
Fun Fact
Although produced in Switzerland, 'Lest We Forget' was screened in Germany and Austria, and its anti-war themes were considered noteworthy for its time, particularly given the political climate leading up to World War II.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources