Big Trouble in Big Town is a classic film noir that tells the story of a small-town reporter who comes to the big city and gets caught up in a web of crime and corruption. The film is a gripping thriller with a strong cast and a memorable script.
The film follows the story of Steve Wilson, a young reporter who comes to New York City looking for a job. He soon finds himself working for a small-time newspaper, but he quickly gets in over his head when he starts investigating a story about a corrupt politician.
Synopsis of ‘Big Trouble in Big Town’
Big Trouble in Big Town(1932) is a classic screwball comedy directed by Roy Del Ruth and starring Harold Lloyd. The film follows Jerry Grayson (Lloyd), a small-town clerk who travels to New York City to win back his girlfriend, Sally (Alice White), who has fallen for a wealthy playboy.
Jerry soon finds himself caught up in a series of misadventures, including a kidnapping, a stolen diamond, and a mistaken identity.
Key Events and Conflicts
- Jerry arrives in New York City and immediately gets involved in a car accident with wealthy playboy, Gordon Miller (Guy Kibbee).
- Jerry is mistaken for Miller and kidnapped by a gang of criminals who believe he has a stolen diamond.
- Sally, believing Jerry has left her, agrees to marry Miller.
- Jerry escapes from the kidnappers and tries to clear his name, but is constantly mistaken for Miller.
- In a series of hilarious mishaps, Jerry eventually recovers the stolen diamond and exposes Miller’s true nature.
Themes and Motifs
The Importance of Identity
Big Trouble in Big Townexplores the theme of identity through Jerry’s mistaken identity as Gordon Miller. Jerry’s struggles to prove his true identity highlight the importance of being recognized for who you are, not who others perceive you to be.
The Power of Love
The film also explores the power of love. Jerry’s love for Sally drives him to overcome the many obstacles he faces in New York City. Ultimately, it is his love for her that saves him and helps him to clear his name.
Motifs of Chaos and Confusion
The film uses motifs of chaos and confusion to create a sense of humor and absurdity. Jerry’s constant misadventures and mistaken identities create a whirlwind of events that keep the audience laughing.
Character Analysis
Jerry Grayson
Jerry is a kind-hearted and well-intentioned man who is often underestimated by others. He is determined to win back Sally and prove himself worthy of her love. Throughout the film, Jerry learns to stand up for himself and fight for what he believes in.
Sally
Sally is a strong-willed and independent woman who is torn between her love for Jerry and her desire for a more glamorous life. She eventually realizes that Jerry is the one who truly loves her and accepts his marriage proposal.
Gordon Miller
Miller is a wealthy and arrogant playboy who is used to getting what he wants. He sees Jerry as a threat and tries to eliminate him. However, Jerry’s resourcefulness and determination ultimately outsmart Miller.
Setting and Atmosphere: Big Trouble In Big Town
New York City
The film is set in New York City, which is depicted as a bustling and chaotic metropolis. The city’s fast-paced atmosphere and crowded streets contribute to the sense of confusion and misadventure that Jerry experiences.
Cinematography and Lighting
The film uses a variety of cinematography and lighting techniques to create a specific atmosphere. The use of quick cuts and close-ups adds to the sense of chaos and confusion. The film also uses chiaroscuro lighting to create a sense of mystery and intrigue.
Sound Design
The film’s sound design is used to create a sense of humor and absurdity. The use of exaggerated sound effects and music helps to emphasize the comedic moments in the film.
Genre and Style
Screwball Comedy
Big Trouble in Big Townis a classic example of the screwball comedy genre. The film features fast-paced dialogue, witty banter, and a series of increasingly absurd situations.
Roy Del Ruth’s Style
Roy Del Ruth’s directing style is characterized by its use of physical comedy and slapstick. The film is full of pratfalls, chases, and other physical gags that keep the audience laughing.
Subversion of Genre Conventions
While the film generally conforms to the conventions of the screwball comedy genre, it also subverts some of these conventions. For example, the film’s protagonist, Jerry, is not a typical screwball hero. He is not wealthy, sophisticated, or particularly charming.
However, his resourcefulness and determination make him an endearing and relatable character.
Social and Historical Context
The Great Depression
Big Trouble in Big Townwas released in 1932, during the Great Depression. The film’s depiction of New York City as a chaotic and confusing place reflects the economic and social turmoil of the time.
The Rise of the Screwball Comedy, Big trouble in big town
The screwball comedy genre emerged in the early 1930s as a way to escape the economic and social problems of the time. Big Trouble in Big Townis a prime example of this genre, offering audiences a chance to laugh and forget their troubles.
The Legacy of Harold Lloyd
Harold Lloyd was one of the most popular comedians of the silent film era. Big Trouble in Big Townis one of his most famous films and helped to solidify his status as a comedy legend.
Top FAQs
Who directed Big Trouble in Big Town?
Roy Rowland
Who wrote the screenplay for Big Trouble in Big Town?
Robert Pirosh
Who starred in Big Trouble in Big Town?
Edward G. Robinson, Claire Trevor, and Richard Conte