Top 20 Fan-Favorite Movies of 1931: A Nostalgic Cinematic Journey

Roll out the red carpet and dust off your vintage popcorn machine, because we’re about to take a glamorous trip back in time. Welcome to the golden age of Hollywood, where the stars shone brighter, the dialogue was snappier, and the silver screen was truly silver. The year is 1931, a time when the Great Depression was in full swing, but the magic of cinema offered a much-needed escape. This was a year that gifted us with cinematic gems that still sparkle in the annals of film history. So, grab your top hat or feather boa, and prepare to be transported back to an era of unforgettable performances and timeless narratives. We’re about to unveil the top 20 fan-favorite movies of 1931, a nostalgic cinematic journey that will remind you why these classics continue to captivate audiences, nearly a century later. Ready? Lights, camera, action!
City Lights

City Lights

Release Date: 1931-02-01

Genres: Comedy, Romance, Drama

“City Lights” is a heartwarming and unique movie from 1931 that tells the story of a tramp who falls head over heels for a beautiful blind flower seller. Despite being a silent film in the sound era, it manages to captivate audiences with its touching tale. Starring the talented Charlie Chaplin and Virginia Cherrill, this romantic comedy is definitely one of the best movies of its time.

Cast: Charlie Chaplin (Tramp) , Virginia Cherrill (A Blind Girl) , Harry Myers (An Eccentric Millionaire) , Al Ernest Garcia (The Millionaire’s Butler James) , Hank Mann (A Prizefighter) , Albert Austin (Street Sweeper / Burglar (uncredited)) , Eddie Baker (Boxing Fight Referee (uncredited)) , Henry Bergman (Mayor / Blind Girl’s Downstairs Neighbor (uncredited)) , Buster Brodie (Bald Party Guest (uncredited)) , Jeanne Carpenter (Extra in Restaurant Scene (uncredited)) , Tom Dempsey (Boxer (uncredited)) , James Donnelly (Steet Sweepers’ Foreman (uncredited)) , Ray Erlenborn (Newsboy (uncredited)) , Robert Graves (Police Officer (uncredited)) , Charles Hammond (Extra in Street Scene (uncredited)) , Joseph Herrick (Extra in Boxing Scene (uncredited)) , Austen Jewell (Newsboy (uncredited)) , Willie Keeler (Boxer (uncredited)) , Robert Parrish (Newsboy (uncredited)) , John Rand (Tramp Who Dives for Cigar (uncredited)) , W.C. Robinson (Man Who Throws Away Cigar (uncredited)) , Cy Slocum (Extra in Boxing Scene (uncredited)) , Tony Stabenau (Victorious Boxer – Later Knocked Out (uncredited)) , Mark Strong (Man in Restaurant (uncredited)) , Tiny Ward (Man in Elevator in Front of the Art Shop (uncredited))

Directors: Charlie Chaplin

Writers: Charlie Chaplin, Harry Crocker, Harry Clive

Tags: suicide attempt, operation, blindness and impaired vision, love of one’s life, eye operation, flower shop, flower girl, tramp, love, black and white, millionaire, silent film, blind girl, little tramp

M

M

Release Date: 1931-05-11

Genres: Drama, Thriller, Crime

“M” is a gripping German thriller from 1931 that follows the intense manhunt for Hans Beckert, a serial killer who targets children. As both the police and the criminal underworld close in on him, Beckert finds himself in a desperate race to escape justice. With a stellar cast including Peter Lorre and Ellen Widmann, this movie will keep you on the edge of your seat as you witness the chilling cat-and-mouse game unfold in the streets of Berlin.”

Cast: Peter Lorre (Hans Beckert) , Ellen Widmann (Frau Beckmann) , Inge Landgut (Elsie Beckmann) , Otto Wernicke (Inspector Karl Lohmann) , Theodor Loos (Inspector Groeber) , Gustaf Gründgens (Schränker) , Friedrich Gnaß (Franz) , Fritz Odemar (The Cheater) , Paul Kemp (Pickpocket with Six Watches) , Theo Lingen (Bauernfänger) , Rudolf Blümner (Becker’s ‘Attorney’) , Georg John (Blind Panhandler) , Franz Stein (Minister) , Ernst Stahl-Nachbaur (Police Chief) , Gerhard Bienert (Criminal Secretary) , Karl Platen (Damowitz) , Rosa Valetti (Bartender) , Hertha von Walther (Prostitute) , Carl Ballhaus (Leeser) , Paul Mederow (Staatsanwalt) , Hadrian Maria Netto (Polizeihauptmann) , Lucie Rhoden (Sekretärin im Polizeiarchiv) , Karl Hannemann (Kriminalbeamter)

Directors: Fritz Lang

Writers: Fritz Lang, Thea von Harbou, Egon Jacobson

Tags: germany, berlin, germany, child murder, detective inspector, investigation, psychopath, organized crime, black and white, criminal, child killer, pre-code, psycho, expressionism, german expressionism

Frankenstein

Frankenstein

Release Date: 1931-11-19

Genres: Drama, Horror, Science Fiction

“Hey, have you heard of the movie ‘Frankenstein’? It’s one of the best voted movies of 1931! The story follows Dr. Henry Frankenstein as he brings a creature to life using body parts from the deceased. But things go awry when the monster escapes and wreaks havoc, leading Frankenstein on a quest to find and confront his tormented creation. With a talented cast including Colin Clive, Mae Clarke, and Boris Karloff, this classic film is a must-watch from the early 1930s!”

Cast: Colin Clive (Dr. Henry Frankenstein) , Mae Clarke (Elizabeth) , John Boles (Victor Moritz) , Boris Karloff (The Monster) , Edward Van Sloan (Dr. Waldman) , Frederick Kerr (Baron Frankenstein) , Dwight Frye (Fritz) , Lionel Belmore (Herr Vogel, the Burgomaster) , Marilyn Harris (Maria) , Ted Billings (Villager (uncredited)) , Mae Bruce (Screaming Maid (uncredited)) , Jack Curtis (Villager (uncredited)) , Arletta Duncan (Bridesmaid (uncredited)) , William Dyer (Gravedigger (uncredited)) , Francis Ford (Hans (uncredited)) , Soledad Jiménez (Mourner (uncredited)) , Carmencita Johnson (Little Girl (uncredited)) , Seessel Anne Johnson (Little Girl (uncredited)) , Margaret Mann (Mourner (uncredited)) , Michael Mark (Ludwig (uncredited)) , Pauline Moore (Bridesmaid (uncredited)) , Inez Palange (Villager (uncredited)) , Paul Panzer (Mourner (uncredited)) , Cecilia Parker (Maid (uncredited)) , Rose Plumer (Villager (uncredited))

Directors: James Whale

Writers: John L. Balderston, Mary Shelley, Peggy Webling, Francis Edward Faragoh, Garrett Fort, Robert Florey, John Russell, Richard Schayer

Tags: fire, based on novel or book, monster, experiment, reanimation, laboratory, mad doctor, black and white, pre-code, body part, angry mob, villager, frankenstein

Waterloo Bridge

Waterloo Bridge

Release Date: 1931-09-01

Genres: Drama, Romance, War

“Waterloo Bridge” is a captivating romantic drama set in World War I London. It follows the story of Myra, an American chorus girl struggling to make ends meet, who unexpectedly falls in love with Roy, a young American soldier. As their relationship blossoms, Myra’s complicated past threatens to tear them apart. Starring Mae Clarke and Douglass Montgomery, this heartfelt film takes you on a journey of love, sacrifice, and the challenges of war. Released in 1931, it’s definitely one of the best movies of the year!

Cast: Mae Clarke (Myra Deauville) , Douglass Montgomery (Roy Cronin (as Kent Douglass)) , Doris Lloyd (Kitty) , Frederick Kerr (Major Fred Wetherby) , Enid Bennett (Mary Cronin Wetherby) , Bette Davis (Janet Cronin) , Ethel Griffies (Mrs. Hobley) , Rita Carlyle (The Old Woman) , Ruth Handforth (Augusta the Maid) , Billy Bevan (Soldier on the Make (uncredited)) , Elspeth Dudgeon (Elegant Dowager (uncredited)) , Louise Emmons (Passerby in Front of Theatre (uncredited)) , Mary Gordon (Distraught Woman on Stairway (uncredited))

Directors: James Whale

Writers: Robert E. Sherwood, Benn W. Levy, Richard Schayer, Tom Reed

Tags: prostitute, marriage proposal, world war i, bridge, rent, based on play or musical, soldier, showgirl, pre-code, landlady, air raid

The Public Enemy

The Public Enemy

Release Date: 1931-04-23

Genres: Crime, Drama

“The Public Enemy” is a gripping crime drama set in 1930s Chicago. It follows the journey of two young hoodlums, Tom Powers and Matt Doyle, as they rise from poverty to become notorious criminals. With an incredible cast including James Cagney and Jean Harlow, this film explores the dark side of ambition, family loyalty, and the consequences of a life of crime. Released on April 23, 1931, it’s one of the best voted movies of that year.

Cast: James Cagney (Tom Powers) , Jean Harlow (Gwen Allen) , Edward Woods (Matt Doyle) , Joan Blondell (Mamie) , Donald Cook (Mike Powers) , Leslie Fenton (Samuel ‘Nails’ Nathan) , Beryl Mercer (Ma Powers) , Robert Emmett O’Connor (Paddy Ryan) , Murray Kinnell (Putty Nose) , Clark Burroughs (Dutch (uncredited)) , Mae Clarke (Kitty (uncredited)) , Frank Coghlan Jr. (Tom as a Boy (uncredited)) , George Daly (Machine Gunner (uncredited)) , Frankie Darro (Matt as a Boy (uncredited)) , Snitz Edwards (Miller (uncredited)) , Rita Flynn (Molly Doyle (uncredited)) , Dorothy Gee (Nails’ Girl (uncredited)) , Douglas Gerrard (Assistant Tailor (uncredited)) , Dorothy Gray (Little Girl (uncredited)) , Ben Hendricks Jr. (‘Bugs’ Moran as a Boy (uncredited)) , Robert Homans (Officer Pat Burke (uncredited)) , Eddie Kane (Joe – Headwaiter (uncredited)) , Mia Marvin (Jane (uncredited)) , Sam McDaniel (Headwaiter (uncredited)) , Helen Parrish (Little Girl (uncredited))

Directors: William A. Wellman

Writers: Kubec Glasmon, John Bright, Harvey F. Thew

Tags: anti hero, gangster, organized crime, tragedy, best friend, juvenile delinquent, pre-code, grapefruit

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

Release Date: 1931-12-24

Genres: Horror, Science Fiction, Drama

“Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” is a gripping 1931 movie that explores the duality of human nature. Starring Fredric March and Miriam Hopkins, it tells the story of Dr. Henry Jekyll, a man who believes that every person has both a good and an evil side. Through his experiments with chemicals, he transforms into the sinister Mr. Hyde, committing horrifying crimes. As he struggles to control his alter ego, the consequences become irreversible. Released on December 24, 1931, this film is a captivating portrayal of the battle between light and darkness within us all.

Cast: Fredric March (Dr. Henry Jekyll / Mr. Edward Hyde) , Miriam Hopkins (Ivy Pearson) , Rose Hobart (Muriel Carew) , Holmes Herbert (Dr. John Lanyon) , Halliwell Hobbes (Brig. Gen. Sir Danvers Carew) , Edgar Norton (Poole) , Tempe Pigott (Mrs. Hawkins) , Leonard Carey (Briggs, Lanyon’s Butler (uncredited)) , Sam Harris (Party Guest (uncredited)) , Boyd Irwin (Police Inspector (uncredited)) , Arnold Lucy (Utterson (uncredited)) , Murdock MacQuarrie (Dissenting Doctor at Lecture (uncredited)) , Eric Mayne (Lanyon’s Associate at Lecture (uncredited)) , Robert Adair (Ivy’s Admirer at Music Hall (uncredited)) , Pat Harmon (Music Hall Customer (uncredited)) , John Rogers (Music Hall Waiter (uncredited)) , G.L. McDonnell (Hobson, Carew’s Butler (uncredited)) , Douglas Walton (Blonde Student (uncredited))

Directors: Rouben Mamoulian

Writers: Robert Louis Stevenson, Samuel Hoffenstein, Percy Heath

Tags: london, england, based on novel or book, double life, transformation, alter ego, jekyll and hyde, pre-code, marriage engagement, torment, abused woman

Mädchen in Uniform

Mädchen in Uniform

Release Date: 1931-11-27

Genres: Drama, Romance

“Mädchen in Uniform” is a captivating movie released in 1931 that tells the story of a sensitive girl who is sent to an all-girls boarding school. As she navigates her new environment, she develops a deep romantic attachment to one of her teachers, making it one of the earliest films to explicitly portray homosexuality. With a talented cast including Emilia Unda, Dorothea Wieck, and Hedwig Schlichter, this film offers a unique and thought-provoking exploration of love and identity.

Cast: Emilia Unda (Fräulein von Nordeck zur Nidden – Oberin des Stifts) , Dorothea Wieck (Erzieherin Fräulein von Bernburg) , Hedwig Schlichter (Frl. von Kesten) , Hertha Thiele (Manuela von Meinhardis) , Ellen Schwanneke (Ilse von Westhagen (as Ellen Schwannecke)) , Annemarie von Rochhausen (Edelgard Komtesse von Mengsberg (uncredited)) , Erika Biebrach (Lilli von Kattner (uncredited)) , Lene Berdolt (Fräulein von Gaerschner (uncredited)) , Margory Bodker (Miss Evans (uncredited)) , Gertrud de Lalsky (Exzellenz von Ehrenhardt – Manuelas Tante (uncredited)) , Else Ehser (Gardrobiere Elise (uncredited)) , Marte Hein (Anstaltsprotektorin (uncredited)) , Miriam Lehmann-Haupt (Erzieherin (uncredited)) , Erika Mann (Frl. von Atems (uncredited)) , Barbara Pirk (Mia von Wollin (uncredited)) , Ethel Reschke (Oda von Oldersleben (uncredited)) , Lisi Scheerbach (Mademoiselle Qeuillet (uncredited)) , Doris Thalmer (Mariechen von Ecke (uncredited)) , Ilse Vigdor (Anneliese von Beckendorf (uncredited)) , Ilse Winter (Marga von Rasso (uncredited)) , Charlotte Witthauer (Ilse von Treischke (uncredited))

Directors: Carl Froelich, Leontine Sagan

Writers: Friedrich Dammann, Leontine Sagan, Christa Winsloe, Colette

Tags: suicide attempt, coming out, female friendship, girls’ boarding school, based on play or musical, punishment, black and white, orphan, female homosexuality, lgbt, woman director, teen rebel, lesbian

Dracula

Dracula

Release Date: 1931-02-12

Genres: Horror, Drama, Fantasy

“Dracula” is a classic horror film released on February 12, 1931. Starring Bela Lugosi as the mysterious Count Dracula, the movie follows the story of a British estate agent named Renfield who unknowingly gets entangled with the vampire. As Dracula sets his sights on London, the pair becomes the focus of a supernaturalist professor’s study, leading to a thrilling battle between good and evil. With a talented cast including Helen Chandler, David Manners, and Dwight Frye, this movie is a must-watch for fans of the horror genre.

Cast: Bela Lugosi (Count Dracula) , Helen Chandler (Mina Seward) , David Manners (John Harker) , Dwight Frye (Renfield) , Edward Van Sloan (Professor Abraham Van Helsing) , Herbert Bunston (Dr. Jack Seward) , Frances Dade (Lucy Weston) , Joan Standing (Nurse Briggs (uncredited)) , Charles K. Gerrard (Martin) , Anna Bakacs (Innkeeper’s Daughter (uncredited)) , Bunny Beatty (Flower Girl (uncredited)) , Nicholas Bela (Coach Passenger (uncredited)) , Daisy Belmore (Coach Passenger (uncredited)) , William A. Boardway (Concertgoer Outside Theatre (uncredited)) , Barbara Bozoky (Innkeeper’s Wife (uncredited)) , Tod Browning (Harbormaster (voice) (uncredited)) , Moon Carroll (Maid (uncredited)) , Geraldine Dvorak (Dracula’s Bride (uncredited)) , John George (Small Scientist (uncredited)) , Anita Harder (Bit (uncredited)) , Carla Laemmle (Coach Passenger (uncredited)) , Wyndham Standing (Surgeon (uncredited)) , Cornelia Thaw (Dracula’s Bride (uncredited)) , Dorothy Tree (Dracula’s Bride (uncredited)) , Josephine Velez (Grace, English Nurse (uncredited))

Directors: Tod Browning

Writers: Tod Browning, Bram Stoker, Hamilton Deane, John L. Balderston, Louis Bromfield, Garrett Fort, Frederick Stephani, Louis Stevens, Dudley Murphy, Max Cohen

Tags: transylvania, based on novel or book, monster, castle, vampire, spider, bat, count, based on play or musical, undead, sanitarium, black and white, pre-code, real estate agent, lunatic, dracula

Possessed

Possessed

Release Date: 1931-11-21

Genres: Drama, Romance

“Possessed” is a captivating 1931 movie starring Joan Crawford and Clark Gable. Set in the backdrop of the Great Depression, it tells the story of Marion, a factory worker who dreams of leaving her monotonous life behind for a luxurious penthouse. When she meets Mark Whitney, a wealthy lawyer, he offers her everything she desires, except for marriage. As their passionate affair unfolds, Marion wonders if it will ever lead to the happily ever after she yearns for.

Cast: Joan Crawford (Marian Martin aka ‘Mrs. Moreland’) , Clark Gable (Mark Whitney) , Wallace Ford (Al Manning) , Richard ‘Skeets’ Gallagher (Wally Stuart) , Frank Conroy (Horace Travers) , Marjorie White (Vernice LaVerne) , John Miljan (John Driscoll) , Clara Blandick (Mrs. Martin) , Wade Boteler (Campaign Rally Heckler (uncredited)) , Gino Corrado (Signor Martini (uncredited)) , Bess Flowers (Party Guest (uncredited)) , Francis Ford (Drunken Husband (uncredited)) , Mary Gordon (Woman at Political Rally (uncredited)) , Jack Pennick (Campaign Rally Heckler (uncredited)) , Larry Steers (Party Guest (uncredited)) , Walter Walker (Whitney for Governor Supporter (uncredited))

Directors: Clarence Brown

Writers: Lenore J. Coffee, Edgar Selwyn

Tags: factory worker, self sacrifice, lawyer, mistress, black and white, break-up, love affair, pre-code, contractor, political candidate, luxury apartment, rich man, kept woman, smear campaign

Come Clean

Come Clean

Release Date: 1931-09-02

Genres: Comedy

“Come Clean” is a hilarious 1931 comedy starring the iconic duo Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy. In this film, the Hardys’ peaceful evening is disrupted when the Laurels unexpectedly drop by. After a series of misadventures, including saving a troubled woman’s life, Stan and Ollie find themselves in a chaotic situation as they try to hide her from their wives. Get ready for a laughter-filled ride as these comedic geniuses navigate through a night of mayhem and mishaps.

Cast: Stan Laurel (Stan) , Oliver Hardy (Ollie) , Mae Busch (Kate) , Gertrude Astor (Mrs. Hardy) , Linda Loredo (Mrs. Laurel) , Eddie Baker (Detective) , Gordon Douglas (Hotel desk clerk) , Charlie Hall (Ice Cream Attendant) , Tiny Sandford (Doorman)

Directors: James W. Horne

Writers: Stan Laurel, H.M. Walker

Tags: detective, bath tub, bedroom, neighbor, diner, black and white, bathtub, robe, doorman, rescue from drowning, ice cream man  , screaming, soda jerk, jumping off a bridge, ice cream parlor, elevator, accident, short film

Tabu

Tabu

Release Date: 1931-08-01

Genres: Adventure, Drama, Romance

“Tabu” is a captivating love story set in 1931. The film follows Matahi and Reri, two young lovers who face a dangerous predicament when Reri is chosen as a virgin for the gods. Determined to protect their love, Matahi abducts Reri and they escape to an island ruled by the white man, where they hope to find safety from the wrath of their gods. With a thrilling plot and a unique setting, this movie promises to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Cast: Matahi (The Boy) , Anne Chevalier (The Girl (as Reri)) , Bill Bambridge (The Policeman (as Jean)) , Hitu (The Old Warrior) , Jules (The Captain (uncredited))

Directors: F. W. Murnau

Writers: Edgar G. Ulmer, F. W. Murnau, Robert Flaherty

Tags: south seas, exotic island, love of one’s life, civilization, sacrifice, tahiti, romance, escape, black and white, shark, nature, pre-code, polynesia, bora bora

The 3 Penny Opera

The 3 Penny Opera

Release Date: 1931-02-18

Genres: Comedy, Music, Crime

“The 3 Penny Opera” is a captivating movie set in London during the early 1900s. It follows the intriguing story of Mack the Knife, a notorious underworld figure who secretly marries Polly Peachum, the daughter of a prominent beggar leader. With a talented cast and a release date in 1931, this film is definitely one of the best voted movies of that year.

Cast: Rudolf Forster (Mackie Messer) , Carola Neher (Polly) , Reinhold Schünzel (Tiger-Brown) , Fritz Rasp (Peachum) , Valeska Gert (Mrs. Peachum) , Lotte Lenya (Jenny) , Hermann Thimig (The Vicar) , Ernst Busch (The Street Singer) , Vladimir Sokoloff (Smith, the Jailer) , Paul Kemp (Mackie Messer’s Gang Member) , Gustav Püttjer (Mackie Messer’s Gang Member) , Oskar Höcker (Mackie Messer’s Gang Member) , Krafft-Raschig (Mackie Messer’s Gang Member) , Herbert Grünbaum (Filch) , Sylvia Torff (Whorehouse owner)

Directors: G.W. Pabst

Writers: Bertolt Brecht, Ladislaus Vajda, Béla Balázs, Léo Lania

Tags: corruption, prostitute, musical, victorian england, social satire, criminal underworld, stage play, beggar clan, brechtian theatre

The Smiling Lieutenant

The Smiling Lieutenant

Release Date: 1931-08-01

Genres: Comedy, Romance

“The Smiling Lieutenant” is a charming romantic comedy from 1931 that tells the story of Lt. Nikolaus von Preyn, an Austrian palace guard who accidentally winks at the visiting Princess Anna, leading her to believe he is interested in her. To avoid any scandal, Nikolaus is forced to marry the princess and move to a neighboring kingdom. However, his girlfriend Franzi follows them, secretly helping the princess keep her husband happy. With a stellar cast including Maurice Chevalier and Claudette Colbert, this delightful film is a must-watch for fans of classic romantic comedies.

Cast: Maurice Chevalier (Lt. Nikolaus ‘Niki’ von Preyn) , Claudette Colbert (Franzi) , Miriam Hopkins (Princess Anna) , Charles Ruggles (Max) , George Barbier (King Adolf XV) , Hugh O’Connell (Niki’s Orderly) , Maude Allen (Lady in Waiting (uncredited)) , Granville Bates (Bill Collector (uncredited)) , Harry C. Bradley (Count Von Holden (uncredited)) , Carrie Daumery (Lady in Waiting (uncredited)) , Ludwig Heinsich (Man (uncredited)) , Cornelius MacSunday (Emperor Franz Josef (uncredited)) , Elizabeth Patterson (Baroness Von Schwedel (uncredited)) , Janet Reade (Lily (uncredited)) , Werner Saxtorph (Joseph (uncredited)) , Karl Stall (Master of Ceremonies (uncredited)) , Robert Strange (Colonel Rockoff (uncredited)) , Charles Wagenheim (Arresting Officer (uncredited))

Directors: Ernst Lubitsch

Writers: Ernst Lubitsch, Samson Raphaelson, Ernest Vajda, Leopold Jacobson, Felix Dormann, Hans Müller, Clifford Grey

Tags: romantic rivalry, pre-code, wink

Limite

Limite

Release Date: 1931-05-17

Genres: Drama, Adventure

“Limite” is a captivating movie released in 1931 that takes us on a journey with three castaways stranded in the vast ocean. As they share their life stories, we are immersed in the depths of their destinies, all while they grapple with the boundaries of their shared space. With a talented cast including Olga Breno, Tatiana Rey, and Raul Schnoor, this film offers a poignant exploration of human existence and the power of storytelling.

Cast: Olga Breno (First woman) , Tatiana Rey (Second woman) , Raul Schnoor (First man) , Brutus Pedreira (Second man) , Carmen Santos (Woman eating a fruit) , Mário Peixoto (Man sitting at the cemetery) , Edgar Brasil (Man asleep in the theatre) , Iolanda Bernardes (Woman at the sewing-machine)

Directors: Mário Peixoto

Writers: Mário Peixoto

Tags: river, boat, isolation, fate, silent film

Be Big!

Be Big!

Release Date: 1931-02-07

Genres: Comedy

“Be Big!” is a hilarious comedy released on February 7, 1931, starring the iconic duo Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy. The story follows the misadventures of Stan and Ollie as they try to escape a tricky situation. When their wives unexpectedly return, the pair find themselves trapped and resort to hiding in a bed, leading to comical chaos. With a witty dialogue and the famous catchphrase “Be big!”, this movie is sure to keep you entertained from start to finish.

Cast: Stan Laurel (Stan) , Oliver Hardy (Ollie) , Anita Garvin (Mrs. Laurel) , Charlie Hall (Bellboy) , Isabelle Keith (Mrs. Hardy) , Jack Hill (Railway Station Passerby) , Baldwin Cooke (Cookie)

Directors: James W. Horne

Writers: H.M. Walker

Tags: black and white, short film

Comradeship

Comradeship

Release Date: 1931-11-17

Genres: Drama

“Comradeship” is a powerful and heartwarming film set in the Lorraine/Saar region during 1931. It tells the inspiring true story of German miners who bravely come to the rescue of their French counterparts trapped in a devastating underground fire and explosion. With a talented cast and a gripping plot, this movie is a must-watch for anyone seeking a tale of solidarity and heroism amidst the tensions between France and Germany.

Cast: Alexander Granach (Kasper) , Fritz Kampers (Wilderer) , Ernst Busch (Wittkopp) , Elisabeth Wendt (Frau Wittkopp) , Gustav Püttjer (Kaplan) , Oskar Höcker (Obersteiger) , Daniel Mendaille (Jean Leclerc) , Georges Charlia (Emile) , Andrée Ducret (Françoise) , Alex Bernard (Grand-père, le vieux mineur) , Pierre-Louis (Georges – le petit galibot) , Héléna Manson (Rose, la femme du mineur blessé) , Marcel Lesieur (Albert) , Willem Holsboer (Ingenieur des deutschen Bergwerks) , Georges Tourreil (L’ingénieur)

Directors: G.W. Pabst

Writers: Ladislaus Vajda, Gerbert Rappaport, Peter Martin Lampel, Karl Otten, Léon Werth, Anna Gmeyner

Tags: mine, cooperation

The Champ

The Champ

Release Date: 1931-11-21

Genres: Drama

“The Champ” is a heartwarming movie released in 1931 that tells the story of a former prizefighter struggling with alcoholism as he fights to maintain custody of his beloved son. Starring Wallace Beery and Jackie Cooper, this emotional film explores the bond between a father and his adoring child, making it one of the best voted movies of that year.

Cast: Wallace Beery (Andy ‘Champ’ Purcell) , Jackie Cooper (Dink Purcell) , Irene Rich (Linda Carleton) , Roscoe Ates (Sponge) , Edward Brophy (Tim) , Hale Hamilton (Tony Carleton) , Jesse Scott (Jonah) , Marcia Mae Jones (Mary Lou Carleton) , Dannie Mac Grant (Boy Taunting Dink (uncredited)) , Frank Hagney (Mexican Champ Manuel Quiroga (uncredited)) , Dell Henderson (The Doctor (uncredited)) , Tom McGuire (Los Angeles Promoter (uncredited)) , Bob Perry (Referee (uncredited)) , Lee Phelps (Louie the Bartender (uncredited)) , Andy Shuford (Boy at Racetrack (uncredited)) , Dan Tobey (Ring Announcer (uncredited))

Directors: King Vidor

Writers: Frances Marion

Tags: gambling, sports, fighter, alcoholic, single father, racetrack, prizefight, divorced parents, boxing, father son relationship

Blonde Crazy

Blonde Crazy

Release Date: 1931-09-16

Genres: Comedy, Crime, Drama

“Blonde Crazy” is a thrilling movie from 1931 that follows the adventures of a confident con man and his stunning partner-in-crime. Starring James Cagney and Joan Blondell, this film takes you on a wild ride as they navigate their way through a world of deceit and mischief. With a talented cast and an intriguing storyline, it’s no wonder this movie made it to the list of the 20 best voted movies of 1931.

Cast: James Cagney (Albert ‘Bert’ Harris) , Joan Blondell (Anne Roberts) , Louis Calhern (‘Dapper Dan’ Barker) , Noel Francis (Helen Wilson) , Ray Milland (Joe Reynolds) , Guy Kibbee (A. Rupert Johnson Jr.) , Polly Walters (Peggy) , William Burgess (Colonel Bellock) , Maude Eburne (Mrs. Snyder) , Nat Pendleton (Hank aka Pete) , Wade Boteler (Detective (uncredited)) , Ray Cooke (Jimmy the Bellhop (uncredited)) , Richard Cramer (Cabbie (uncredited)) , Bill Elliott (Nightclub Patron (uncredited)) , Peter Erkelenz (Kansas City Dutch (uncredited)) , Dick Gordon (Nightclub Patron (uncredited)) , Sherry Hall (Tobacco Counterman (uncredited)) , Lew Harvey (Driver (uncredited)) , Ben Hendricks Jr. (Tough Guy on Dance Floor (uncredited)) , Charles Lane (Hotel Desk Clerk (uncredited)) , Otto Lederer (Pawnbroker (uncredited)) , Russell Hopton (Jerry (uncredited)) , Carl M. Leviness (Nightclub Patron (uncredited)) , Edward Martindel (Jeweler (uncredited)) , Frank McLure (Nightclub Patron (uncredited))

Directors: Roy Del Ruth

Writers: Kubec Glasmon, John Bright

Tags: hotel, pawnbroker, partnership, love, con artist, double cross, bellhop  , pre-code, jewel theft, embezzlement, racketeer, chiseler, rip-off artist

One Good Turn

One Good Turn

Release Date: 1931-10-31

Genres: Comedy

“One Good Turn” is a heartwarming comedy released on October 31, 1931. Starring the iconic duo Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy, along with a talented cast including Mary Carr and James Finlayson, the film follows the misadventures of Stan and Ollie as they try to help a friendly old lady who they mistakenly believe is in financial trouble. Filled with hilarious misunderstandings and a touch of revenge, this movie is a delightful watch for fans of classic comedy.

Cast: Stan Laurel (Stan) , Oliver Hardy (Ollie) , Mary Carr (Old Lady) , James Finlayson (A Community Player) , Billy Gilbert (Drunk) , Dorothy Granger (A Community Player (uncredited)) , Harry ‘Snub’ Pollard (A Community Player (uncredited))

Directors: James W. Horne

Writers: H.M. Walker

Tags: black and white, short film

Little Caesar

Little Caesar

Release Date: 1931-01-25

Genres: Drama, Crime

“Little Caesar” is a gripping crime drama from 1931 that follows the rise of a small-time hood played by Edward G. Robinson. With an all-star cast including Douglas Fairbanks Jr. and Glenda Farrell, the movie explores the thrilling journey of this ambitious character as he shoots his way to the top, leaving us wondering how long he can maintain his newfound power. Released on January 25, 1931, this film is definitely one of the best voted movies of that year.

Cast: Edward G. Robinson (Caesar Enrico ‘Rico’ Bandello aka ‘Little Caesar’) , Douglas Fairbanks Jr. (Joe Massara) , Glenda Farrell (Olga Stassoff) , William Collier Jr. (Tony Passa) , Sidney Blackmer (Big Boy) , Ralph Ince (Pete Montana) , Thomas E. Jackson (Sergeant Flaherty) , Stanley Fields (Sam Vettori) , Maurice Black (Little Arnie Lorch) , George E. Stone (Otero) , Armand Kaliz (De Voss) , Nicholas Bela (Ritz Colonna) , Ernie Adams (Cashier (uncredited)) , Elmer Ballard (Undetermined Role (uncredited)) , Ferike Boros (Mrs. Passa (uncredited)) , Kernan Cripps (Detective (uncredited)) , George Daly (Machine-Gunner (uncredited)) , Adolph Faylauer (New Year’s Celebrant (uncredited)) , Ben Hendricks Jr. (Kid Bean (uncredited)) , Al Hill (Rico’s ‘Butler’ (uncredited)) , Lucille La Verne (Ma Magdalena (uncredited)) , Gladys Lloyd (McClure Guest (uncredited)) , Noel Madison (Killer Peppi (uncredited)) , Tom McGuire (Detective on Phone (uncredited)) , Louis Natheaux (Hood (uncredited))

Directors: Mervyn LeRoy

Writers: Francis Edward Faragoh, W.R. Burnett, Robert N. Lee

Tags: robbery, based on novel or book, gangster, rise and fall, crime boss, murder, organized crime, pre-code, teetotaler

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