The Big Noise

About This Movie

So, 'The Big Noise' is a 1928 drama that centers around John Stoval, a subway guard caught in a web of parental aspirations. It's set against the bustling backdrop of New York and Coney Island, which really adds a vibrant feel to its narrative. The story dives into family dynamics and romantic aspirations, with Sophie yearning for Bill Hedges despite her father's plans for her to marry the more stable Philip Hurd. The performances, while not groundbreaking, capture that earnestness of the time. The pacing has a nice rhythm that keeps things moving without feeling rushed. What stands out here is how it captures the era's social landscape, with a mix of aspirations and the weight of family expectations hanging over the characters.

This film has a somewhat elusive presence in collector circles, with prints being quite rare. Most known copies are in 16mm format, and original 35mm prints are even harder to come by. Its scarcity and the unique themes it explores make it a peculiar find for collectors. The film may not be on everyone's radar, but for those interested in silent cinema and early dramas, it offers a glimpse into familial struggles of the late 1920s.