The Hard Way (1943)

Approved   |    |  Drama, Musical, Romance

The Hard Way (1943) Poster

Embittered, ambitious Helen Chernen sees an opportunity to escape her drab small-town life by becoming a 'stage mother' to her musically-talented younger sister.

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  • Roman Bohnen and Ida Lupino in The Hard Way (1943)
  • Joan Leslie and Ray Montgomery in The Hard Way (1943)
  • Ida Lupino in The Hard Way (1943)
  • Roman Bohnen in The Hard Way (1943)
  • Leona Maricle in The Hard Way (1943)
  • Ida Lupino and Leona Maricle in The Hard Way (1943)

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Awards

2 wins.

Reviews & Commentary

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User Reviews
4 May 2000 | JulieKelleher57
Great film; surprising acting from Jack Carson
This was a terrific film. I was riveted as I watched the story unfold. Ida Lupino, fast becoming one of my favorites, was absolutely magnificent as the stage sister, a "Svengali" using her sibling to propel both of them out of poverty. No wonder I don't go to the movies much -- I'd rather stay home and watch performances such as Miss Lupino's!

I was a bit confused by the blossoming relationship between Leslie's and Morgan's characters (though they both gave noteworthy performances). It could have been built up more, since I thought I missed something when the relationship evolved to its resolution. A small flaw.

But the best part of the film was an unusually strong and moving performance from Jack Carson. He is known more for his comic relief (I hate comic relief!) roles in such films as "Mildred Pierce." Heres, Mr. Carson presented a three-dimensional character that you could not help but feel bad for. A pleasant surprise which only added to a must-see film.

Critic Reviews

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Did You Know?

Trivia

Several actors with their character names listed in studio records and/or casting call lists were not seen in the movie. These were Eddie Coke (Variety Ad Taker), Frank Faylen (Policeman), Howard M. Mitchell (Policeman), Joel Davis (Jimmy, Six Years), Wilbur Mack (Stage Manager), Monte Blue (Assistant Stage Manager), Frances Morris (Telephone Operator) and Merrillee Lannon (Western Union Clerk).

Quotes

Paul Collins: I've got a date tonight with a lady, a genuine lady.
Mrs. Helen Chernen: That'll be a novelty.

Goofs

Just moments after the opening night performance of a Broadway musical, several characters look at a print review of the show that appeared in weekly Variety. At that time, the publication did not run reviews of previews so there is now way this review could have appeared in print before curtain went down for first public performance.

Soundtracks

Forty-Second Street
(1932) (uncredited)
Music by Harry Warren
Played briefly as background music during a montage

Storyline

Plot Summary

Genres

Drama | Musical | Romance

Details

Release Date:

20 February 1943

Language

English

Country of Origin

USA

Filming Locations

Warner Bros. Museum, Warner Brothers Burbank Studios - 4000 Warner Boulevard, Burbank, California, USA

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