Experience the compelling story of A Face in the Crowd, a sharp political drama thriller from 1957, now available in a stunning colorized HD format. Directed by Elia Kazan, this film explores the intoxicating effects of fame and the manipulative power of media through the rise and fall of a charismatic drifter turned television sensation. This colorized edition revitalizes the classic film’s intense narrative and complex characters, making it accessible and engaging for modern audiences.
The film opens in a small Arkansas jail, where radio producer Marcia Jeffries discovers Larry “Lonesome” Rhodes, a rough-edged, guitar-playing drifter with a magnetic personality. Captivated by his folksy charm and raw talent, Marcia gives him a spot on her local radio show, quickly propelling him to local fame.
As “Lonesome” Rhodes transitions from radio to television, his influence grows exponentially. His candid, off-the-cuff style wins over audiences, while his biting critiques of politicians and sponsors stir controversy. Rhodes’s popularity skyrockets, and he becomes a national figure, wielding enormous power over public opinion.
However, as his fame grows, Rhodes’s ego and manipulative tendencies emerge. His relationships sour, including a complicated romance with Marcia and a scandalous marriage to a teenage drum majorette. Behind the scenes, Rhodes reveals a darker, egotistical side, alienating friends and colleagues alike.
The climax exposes Rhodes’s true nature when Marcia secretly broadcasts his contemptuous off-air remarks, calling his viewers “idiots” and “suckers.” The public backlash is swift and severe, leading to his rapid downfall. The film ends on a cautionary note about the fragility of celebrity and the dangers of unchecked media influence.
Andy Griffith as Larry “Lonesome” Rhodes
Patricia Neal as Marcia Jeffries
Walter Matthau as Mel Miller
Anthony Franciosa as Joey DePalma
Lee Remick as Betty Lou Fleckum
A Face in the Crowd is a political drama thriller with sharp social commentary. It blends elements of satire and psychological character study to critique the emerging power of television and celebrity culture in 1950s America.
Released in 1957, the film captures a pivotal moment when television was replacing radio as the dominant medium of mass communication. It serves as a prescient warning about the rise of media personalities who wield enormous influence over politics and public opinion, a theme that remains relevant today.
The film’s portrayal of Rhodes’s manipulation of political figures and the public anticipates modern concerns about celebrity culture, media spin, and the cult of personality. It also reflects anxieties about the erosion of authentic public discourse in the face of entertainment-driven news.
This colorized version of A Face in the Crowd has been carefully restored using advanced digital colorization techniques. The process enhances the film’s visual impact, bringing out the textures of the rural Arkansas setting, the gritty urban environments, and the glamorous yet hollow world of television studios.
The colorization adds new depth to the characters’ expressions and the film’s dramatic lighting, enriching the viewing experience without compromising the original’s stark tone. This restoration invites a new generation to appreciate the film’s artistry and powerful message.
: Elia Kazan
: Budd Schulberg
: Schulberg’s original story
: Boris Kaufman
: Gene Milford
: Elia Kazan Productions
: Warner Bros.
: 118 minutes
: MP4
: HD (1080p)
: Compatible with smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs
A Face in the Crowd is widely regarded as a prophetic and influential film that remains strikingly relevant. Critics have praised its unflinching examination of media manipulation and the cult of personality. Andy Griffith’s performance as Lonesome Rhodes is a standout, showcasing his ability to portray both charm and menace.
The film has influenced numerous works exploring media and political power and is considered a classic of American cinema. Its themes resonate in today’s media landscape, making it essential viewing for anyone interested in the intersection of fame, politics, and mass communication.
: What is A Face in the Crowd about?
A: It tells the story of Larry “Lonesome” Rhodes, a drifter who rises to media stardom and political influence before his downfall.
: Is this version colorized?
A: Yes, this is a professionally colorized HD restoration of the original black-and-white film.
: Who stars in A Face in the Crowd?
A: Andy Griffith leads the cast, supported by Patricia Neal and Walter Matthau.
: What genre is the film?
A: It is a political drama thriller with strong social and media critique elements.
: How long is the movie?
A: The runtime is approximately 118 minutes.
Witness the rise and fall of a media icon in A Face in the Crowd—download the colorized HD version today!