Watch Front Page Woman
- NR
- 1935
- 1 hr 22 min
-
6.5 (1,786)
In the 1935 movie Front Page Woman, Bette Davis plays Ellen Garfield, a newspaper reporter who is determined to prove herself in a male-dominated profession. The film begins with Ellen already working at the Morning Star, a New York City newspaper, but she is relegated to writing society columns and fluff pieces, much to her chagrin. When a big story breaks about a man who has been wrongfully accused of murder, Ellen sees an opportunity to prove her worth as a serious journalist. She convinces her editor, J.B. Allen (played by George Brent), to let her write the story, and she sets out to uncover the truth behind the crime.
As Ellen investigates the case, she encounters a number of obstacles, including some corrupt police officers who don't want her meddling in their affairs. She also finds herself attracted to the accused man, who is played by Roscoe Karns. Despite these challenges, Ellen perseveres, determined to get the story and prove her worth as a journalist.
Front Page Woman is a classic example of a fast-paced, hard-boiled newspaper drama, filled with snappy dialogue, tough characters, and a healthy dose of romance. Bette Davis is at the top of her game here, playing Ellen Garfield as a smart, tenacious, and fiercely independent woman who refuses to be held back by the sexist attitudes of her male colleagues. George Brent is also excellent as the suave and charming editor who recognizes Ellen's talent and encourages her to pursue her dreams.
The film is notable for its portrayal of the newspaper industry during the Great Depression, with its emphasis on hard-hitting reporting and sensationalistic headlines. It also offers a glimpse into the world of women in the workplace during the 1930s, when opportunities for women were still limited and many faced prejudice and discrimination in the workplace.
Throughout the film, Ellen is forced to navigate a number of challenges that will feel familiar to many women today. She confronts sexism and harassment from her male colleagues, and faces pushback from many of the men who don't believe she is capable of doing a "man's job". She also grapples with the difficult decisions that come with being a working woman, such as balancing her career aspirations with her desire for a family.
What makes Front Page Woman stand out, however, is that it doesn't shy away from these challenges. Instead, it presents them head on, showing us a character who refuses to be beaten down by them. Ellen Garfield is a fighter, someone who refuses to be held back by the limitations placed on her by society. She knows she is capable of more than just writing fluff pieces, and is determined to prove herself as a serious journalist.
Overall, Front Page Woman is a classic Hollywood film that offers plenty of entertainment value while also challenging its audience to think about important issues relating to gender, the media, and societal norms. With its engaging performances, snappy dialogue, and exciting plot, it's a film that is sure to please fans of classic cinema, as well as those who are interested in exploring the history of women in the workplace.
Front Page Woman is a 1935 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 22 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5.