Above the Clouds

About This Movie

Above the Clouds is a solid piece from 1933 that touches on some gritty themes. Robert Armstrong as Scoop Adams really nails the tortured artist angle, grappling with his demons and the toll they take on his career. The pacing moves well, keeping you engaged without feeling rushed. You get a good mix of action and drama, with some interesting practical effects for the time, especially in the newsreel sequences. Richard Cromwell is a nice foil as the friend left in the dust, and there's a certain rawness to the performances that feels authentic. The film captures the chaotic energy of the early 30s, both in its setting and in the characters’ struggles with ambition and addiction.

Directed by Roy William NeillFeatures Robert Armstrong and Richard CromwellReleased by Columbia PicturesRuntime: 70 minutes