Origin: This was a film released in 1934. According to the Internet Movie Database, it was directed and written by King Vidor. The film is filmed and set during the Great Depression It tells the story of a couple who are from the city who move to the farm, and discusses their transition into farm life. The couple sets up a communal farm group with other farmers, where food and money are shared. this film is a "talkie"meaning it uses dialogue in the plotline.
Purpose: the film is meant to show the struggle of people during the Depression. In addition to providing some comic relief to the Depression, it also provides insight to the communal farms that may have been organized. Also it was a very popular film, with a great plot and actors. This is because during the Depression, movie theater attendance decreased dramatically. So a good film was needed to attract people who viewed it more worthwhile to spend their limited income.
Value: The film really shows the struggle of the time period. It highlights the economic distress of the protagonists and other characters, and shows how people were forced to try to make income off of farming. It also implies some socialist ideals, through the communal farm society. It also shows how the depression affected everyone, from directors to the homeless, showing unity in the nation. Also, a few of the characters (and he actors who play them ) have progressive ideas, which shows the balance between views at the time.
Limitations: The film doesn't highlight the issues leading to the depression, such as the stock market crash, and president Hoovers unwillingness to help. It also doesn't tell about the economic struggle of those in other professions. Additionally, it doesn't show the negative views towards communism. According to John Greco, a film analyst, many reactions to the film called it and its director "pinko" meaning that they felt that it supported communist ideals in a negative way.
Overall, this film was a great depiction of its time period. It discussed the struggle during the depression and showed how people tried to deal with it. It is viewed so highly that according to turner Classic Movies, it received an honorary Oscar in 1979.
Sources:
http://www.pictureshowman.com/timeline_1930_1939.cfmhttp://www.imdb.com/title/tt0025610/
http://www.indiana.edu/~libsalc/newdeal/depressionfilms.html
http://www.tcm.com/this-month/article/151878%7C0/Our-Daily-Bread.html
http://twentyfourframes.wordpress.com/2009/06/12/our-daily-bread-1934-king-vidor/
I really like how much this connects to what we were learning in class. It's interesting how the film captures the hardships of the time. The struggle is real.
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