A loving, warm and humorous portrayal of a Jewish immigrant from Russia and his family. David (husband), Rose (wife), Morris (eldest son) and Sammy (second son) live in an immigrant ghetto that is populated by a mix bag of people with different country origins. The narrative revolves around two archetypal stories. First, how obeisance to traditions by elders clash with the carefree assimilation to a dominant culture by a younger generation. Second, the "good" son that turns out to be bad versus the "bad" that turns out "good".
This is a film from the closing years of the silent era. As such, the emotions are clearly laid out on the screen. Being an Hollywood product made to entertain immigrant crowds, redemptive and happy endings are expected. It is a reflection of the optimism of those who came to improve their lot in the land of opportunity.
The outside shots appear to have been filmed in New York City. The elevated subway line that shows up in a number of scenes no longer exists, so it is an interesting record of a faraway era.
This is a film from the closing years of the silent era. As such, the emotions are clearly laid out on the screen. Being an Hollywood product made to entertain immigrant crowds, redemptive and happy endings are expected. It is a reflection of the optimism of those who came to improve their lot in the land of opportunity.
The outside shots appear to have been filmed in New York City. The elevated subway line that shows up in a number of scenes no longer exists, so it is an interesting record of a faraway era.
