The Human Comedy

Writer William Saroyan wanted desperately to direct the film despite having no experience in directing. Louis B. Mayer told Saroyan that he would consider the request and assigned the writer to direct a one-reel short. The short film was a disappointment, and studio stalwart Clarence Brown was promptly assigned. Saroyan was so bitter about the experience that soon afterward he wrote a play about Mayer titled "Get Away, Old Man". He also adapted the story he wrote for the film into a novel, which was published within weeks of the movie premiere and became a best seller.

Near the end of the film when Homer and his friends walk to the telegraph office Homer's tie is tied up short (the tail below the broad part of the tie) but when Homer enters the office and in the following scenes, the tie is tied correctly.

Also available in a computer colorized version.

Featured in MGM: When the Lion Roars (1992)