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- New York Nights 1929 Colorized
Synopsis
Step into the dazzling world of Broadway nightlife with New York Nights, a captivating pre-code crime drama from 1929, now beautifully colorized for a viewing experience like never before. Directed by Lewis Milestone, this film marked silent film icon Norma Talmadge’s first foray into sound cinema. With its intoxicating blend of romance, betrayal, and crime, this HD download brings a fascinating piece of cinematic history to your screen.
New York Nights tells the story of Jill Deverne (Norma Talmadge), a glamorous chorus girl married to Fred Deverne (Gilbert Roland), a struggling composer battling alcoholism. Their marriage begins to unravel when Fred’s drinking leads him into compromising situations, including an affair with another chorus girl. Heartbroken and disillusioned, Jill finds herself drawn into the dangerous orbit of Joe Prividi (John Wray), a powerful and possessive gangster who backs her Broadway show.
As Jill navigates the glittering yet treacherous world of show business and high society, she becomes entangled in a web of jealousy and violence. Prividi’s obsession with Jill spirals out of control when she attempts to reconcile with Fred. A shocking series of events unfolds, culminating in a dramatic showdown that forces Jill to choose between her heart and her survival.
The film captures the glitz and grit of 1920s New York City while exploring themes of ambition, loyalty, and the consequences of unchecked passion.
New York Nights features an impressive ensemble cast:
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as Jill Deverne
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as Fred Deverne
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as Joe Prividi
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as Peggy
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as Johnny Dolan
This pre-code crime drama blends elements of romance, melodrama, and suspense. Its exploration of moral ambiguity and societal excesses makes it a quintessential example of early Hollywood’s daring storytelling before the enforcement of strict censorship guidelines.
Released in 1929, New York Nights was highly anticipated as Norma Talmadge’s first sound film. Known as one of the most popular actresses of the silent era, Talmadge faced significant challenges transitioning to talkies—a fate shared by many silent stars. While her performance was praised for its emotional depth, critics noted that audiences struggled to accept their beloved silent icons in speaking roles.
The film also reflects the cultural zeitgeist of late 1920s America, capturing both the glamour and moral decay associated with urban nightlife during the Jazz Age. Its pre-code status allowed for mature themes such as infidelity, alcoholism, and organized crime to be explored without restraint.
This colorized version of New York Nights has been meticulously restored using advanced digital techniques. The process involved analyzing original black-and-white footage to assign vibrant colors that enhance the film’s visual appeal while preserving its period authenticity.
The colorization brings new life to the film’s opulent Broadway sets, shimmering costumes, and atmospheric cityscapes. It highlights the stark contrast between Jill’s glamorous world on stage and the darker realities she faces behind closed doors. For modern audiences, this version offers an immersive way to experience one of early Hollywood’s most ambitious productions.
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: Lewis Milestone
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: Jules Furthman
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: The play Tin Pan Alley by Hugh Stanislaus Stange
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: Ray June
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: Hal C. Kern
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: Al Jolson (composer for featured song “A Year From Today”)
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: United Artists
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: United Artists
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: 82 minutes
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: MP4
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: HD (1080p)
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: Compatible with most devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs
Upon its release, New York Nights received mixed reviews. While critics praised Norma Talmadge’s performance and her successful transition to sound films, they found fault with the melodramatic plot. Variety described it as “a stiff test” for Talmadge but acknowledged her fans would not be disappointed.
Despite its initial reception, New York Nights has since gained recognition as an important artifact from Hollywood’s transitional period between silent films and talkies. For fans of early cinema, it offers a rare glimpse into Norma Talmadge’s career during this pivotal era.
The film also holds historical significance as one of Lewis Milestone’s earlier works before he directed acclaimed classics such as All Quiet on the Western Front. Its exploration of complex female characters and morally ambiguous storylines remains relevant today.
: Is New York Nights based on a true story?
A: No, it is based on Hugh Stanislaus Stange’s 1928 play Tin Pan Alley.
: How does the colorized version enhance the viewing experience?
A: The colorization brings vibrancy to Broadway’s glitz while preserving the shadowy atmosphere essential to its dramatic moments.
: Who are the main stars of New York Nights?
A: The film stars Norma Talmadge as Jill Deverne and Gilbert Roland as Fred Deverne.
: What is significant about this movie?
A: It marked Norma Talmadge’s first sound film and is considered an important example of pre-code cinema.
: How long is the movie?
A: The runtime is 82 minutes—perfect for an evening filled with vintage drama!
Experience Broadway Glamour & Scandal with New York Nights Today!
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