Will and Robert put their finishing thoughts on the 6 movies they drafter from the year 1930 by sharing their picks for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor/Actress & Best Supporting Actor/Actress. They also breakdown 1931 in America/Hollywood and draft an unprecedented

SEVEN movies for this year. Stick around to find out WHICH ONES THEY WILL BE!!!!

1930 Episode 5 - "Morocco" Directed By: Josef Von Sternberg. Release Date November 14th, 1930.

Our last movie of the year 1930 is "Morocco.” A pre-Code romantic drama directed by Josef von Sternberg and starring Marlene Dietrich, Gary Cooper, and Adolphe Menjou. The film is set against the exotic backdrop of North Africa and tells the story of Amy Jolly, a disillusioned nightclub singer who arrives in Morocco seeking a fresh start. Her path crosses with that of Tom Brown (Cooper), a disillusioned soldier in the French Foreign Legion, and the two embark on a rather heated romance. The film is notable for its lush cinematography, evocative of Sternberg's signature style, and for Dietrich's captivating performance, which includes a groundbreaking scene where she performs in a tuxedo and kisses another woman. "Morocco" is also remembered for its exploration of themes such as love, desire, and the complexities of human relationships. The film's atmospheric visuals and haunting score complement the narrative, creating a poignant and enduring piece of cinema. "Morocco" earned several Academy Award nominations and solidified Marlene Dietrich's status as a major Hollywood star, marking the beginning of a long and successful collaboration between her and von Sternberg. Ladies and Gentlemen, this is Morocco!

1930 Episode 4 - "Animal Crackers" Directed by: Victor Heerman.

"Animal Crackers," released in 1930, is a seminal film in the annals of American comedy, marking the second cinematic outing for the legendary Marx Brothers. Adapted from their successful Broadway musical of the same name, the film captures the anarchic humor and rapid-fire wit that would become the Marx Brothers' trademark. Directed by Victor Heerman and produced by Paramount Pictures, "Animal Crackers" showcases the brothers' unique comedic talents, particularly Groucho's razor-sharp dialogue, Harpo's silent antics, Chico's linguistic playfulness, and Zeppo's straight-man charm.

Set during a lavish party at the mansion of wealthy socialite Mrs. Rittenhouse the plot revolves around the chaotic events that ensue following the theft of a valuable painting. Groucho stars as the eccentric Captain Spaulding, a renowned African explorer whose arrival is celebrated with much fanfare. The film's blend of satirical commentary on high society, coupled with the Marx Brothers' trademark slapstick and clever wordplay, ensures "Animal Crackers" remains a timeless classic, reflecting the innovative spirit of early 20th-century American cinema. Ladies and Gentleman, join us as we meet the Marx Brothers for the first time in our journey, this, is Animal Crackers!

1930 Episode 3 - DOUBLE FEATURE!

1930 saw the release of two groundbreaking war films, "Hell's Angels" and "All Quiet on the Western Front", each offering a distinct perspective on the brutal realities of World War I. "Hell's Angels," directed by Howard Hughes, is an American epic known for its spectacular aerial combat scenes and technical innovation. Its production was marked by Hughes' relentless pursuit of realism, leading to costly and dangerous filming techniques that pushed the boundaries of early cinema. In contrast, "All Quiet on the Western Front," directed by Lewis Milestone, offers a harrowing depiction of trench warfare from the German perspective. The film tells the story of Paul Bäumer, a young German soldier whose initial enthusiasm for battle is shattered by the grim reality of the front lines. Renowned for its stark anti-war message, the film captures the futility and devastation of war, emphasizing the shared humanity of soldiers on all sides. Both films, through their innovative storytelling and powerful visual narratives, significantly influenced the war genre and left a lasting impact on audiences worldwide. Ladies and Gentleman! Welcome to our double feature of All Quiet on the Western front and Hells Angels!

1930 Episode 2 - "The Divorcee" by Robert Z. Leonard released on April 30th, 1930.

Our second film of 1930 is none other than Robert Z. Leonard’s  "The Divorcee." This groundbreaking film, starring the mesmerizing Norma Shearer, delves into the complexities of marriage and infidelity with an unflinching boldness rarely seen in its time. "The Divorcee" challenges societal norms and showcases Shearer's unforgettable performance, which earned her an Academy Award. Initially considered to be too wholesome for the role of Jerry Martin, Norma Shearer set off to prove she could handle the film's daring themes. Competing with the likes of Greta Garbo and Jean Harlow, Norma had to impress the producer of the film by doing a racy and daring photoshoot that ultimately convinced the producer that she was perfect for the part. That producer that needed convincing was none other than her husband at the time. So step into this pre-Code Hollywood masterclass of a performance and one of one film, and prepare to be captivated by a story of passion, heartbreak, and resilience that continues to resonate even today. Ladies and Gentleman, This is, “The Divorcee.”

1930 Episode 1 - "City Girl" by: F.W. Murnau February 16th, 1930

WE KICK OFF THE THIRTIES WITH Genius behind Nosferatu and his swing at romance. We're talking F.W Murnau and his movie City Girl. 

"City Girl" is a poignant and visually stunning film that explores the clash between rural simplicity and urban complexity. At the heart of the story is Lem Tustine, a young farmer who travels to Chicago to sell his family’s wheat crop. There, he meets and falls in love with Kate, a spirited waitress. Their whirlwind romance leads to marriage, but the couple faces unexpected challenges when they return to Lem’s family farm. As they navigate the disapproval of Lem’s stern father and the harsh realities of farm life, their love and resilience are put to the test. Join us as we discuss the film’s rich themes, Murnau’s masterful direction, and the enduring relevance of this tale of love, conflict, and perseverance. Stay tuned as we journey back to 1930 and uncover the brilliance of "City Girl.”

Will and Robert are back with season 2 of Cinema 100 as we turn the chapter to a new decade. It all starts with the year 1930. Will and Robert discuss the current state of film industry, as pre-code films become more and more of the past as well as the studio systems completely changing the game by owning everyone and everything. What films will we draft as a part of the 1930 draft class. Listen and find out!!!!

Will and Robert made their selections for the big 6 Academy Awards categories of the movies they drafted from 1929: Supporting Actor and Actress, Best Actor and Actress, Best Director and Best Picture of that year. Will and Robert also reveal their Top 5 movies from the movies drafted in the Decade as well as their bottom 2.

1929 - Episode 6 - "Escape from Dartmoor" October 1st

Our last film from the 1929 class and our last film from the 1920's decade.

"Welcome, my friends, to a story that dances on the edge of darkness and redemption. In the annals of cinematic history, there exists a gem from the year 1929, a film that dared to explore the depths of human resilience and the longing for freedom. 'Escape from Dartmoor' is not merely a movie; it's a journey into the heart of confinement and the undying spirit that yearns for liberty."More than a mere jailbreak; it's a symphony of human struggle, betrayal, and the unyielding pursuit of hope." "Directed by the visionary Anthony Asquity, this film stands as a testament to the power of storytelling, captivating audiences with its raw emotion and unrelenting tension. As the characters navigate treacherous terrain and face insurmountable odds, 'Escape from Dartmoor' becomes a metaphor for our own battles against the confines of fate and circumstance."So, my dear friends, Let 'Escape from Dartmoor' be your guide, as we unravel the mysteries of confinement and the enduring quest for freedom. Welcome to a world where every frame pulses with the heartbeat of defiance. Welcome to 'Escape from Dartmoor.'"

1929 - Episode 5 - "Diary of a Lost Girl" September 12th, 1929

In 1929, a film emerged from the silent era, capturing hearts and challenging societal norms. "Diary of a Lost Girl" delves into the complexities of morality, sexuality, and redemption with a rawness that was daring for its time. Directed by the visionary G.W. Pabst and starring the captivating Louise Brooks, this cinematic masterpiece navigates the journey of Thymian, a young woman cast into a world of darkness after being betrayed by those closest to her. As she grapples with the consequences of society's judgments and her own desires, Thymian's diary becomes a sanctuary where her innermost thoughts and struggles are laid bare. Through evocative cinematography and Brooks' mesmerizing performance, "Diary of a Lost Girl" challenges audiences to confront the hypocrisy of societal norms and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Join us on a journey through the shadows of the human psyche, where innocence is lost, but hope remains eternal.