We're in the Money: Depression America and It's Films

At a desperate time when Americans had no money for necessities, how did the movie industry turn its own luxury status into a vital part of the country's social and economic recovery? Bergman's look at the themes and ideas expressed in over 100 Depression-era films (gangster movies, comedies, Broadway revues, musicals, serious dramas) is more of a broad overview than an in-depth examination, but he does a good job explaining the industry's role in overcoming the country's deepening crisis. At the same time the industry itself was facing opposition from "moral guardians" to emphasize all-American values, Hollywood's expansive gloss on the American dream reassured uncertain and nervous audiences. The basic values expressed in many 1930s films (hard work overcomes all obsticles for the itinerant and the socialite alike, issues of class aside) reflected a basic trust in the American political and social system, which was being threatened from abroad as well as from within. Although Bergman's slim book is not essential reading, it is entertaining, and good historical background for many lesser-viewed (and lesser-known) films.

This book explores the movies of the 30's in great detail. It covers some of the best movies ever made. If you are a fan of the movies you will be a fan of this too.