Symphony of Six Million

Symphony of Six Million Poster

Symphony of Six Million is a 1932 American Pre-Code film directed by Gregory La Cava and produced by RKO Pictures. The film is based on a story by Fannie Hurst and features a cast that includes Ricardo Cortez, Irene Dunne, and Gregory Ratoff. It is a drama that explores the life of a Jewish family in New York City and the challenges they face as they navigate issues of identity, success, and medical ethics.

Plot

The film follows the story of Felix Frey (played by Ricardo Cortez), a talented young Jewish doctor who rises from the humble beginnings of New York's Lower East Side to become a successful surgeon. Despite his achievements, Felix struggles with the expectations of his family and his community, as well as the ethical dilemmas posed by his work. His relationship with his brother, who is disabled, and his love interest, Jessica (played by Irene Dunne), add depth to his character and further complicate his life. The title "Symphony of Six Million" refers to the population of New York City at the time, highlighting the multitude of individual stories and struggles within the city.

Cast

• Ricardo Cortez as Dr. Felix Frey
• Irene Dunne as Jessica
• Gregory Ratoff as Meyer Frey
• Anna Appel as Mrs. Frey
• Noel Madison as Magnus Frey

Production

Directed by Gregory La Cava, "Symphony of Six Million" is noted for its sensitive portrayal of Jewish life and culture, which was relatively rare in Hollywood films of the era. The film's narrative delves into themes of duty, love, and the pursuit of happiness, set against the backdrop of a rapidly modernizing America. The screenplay adaptation was handled by J. Walter Ruben and Bernard Schubert, who worked to translate Hurst's story into a compelling cinematic narrative.

Reception

Upon its release, "Symphony of Six Million" received positive reviews for its performances, particularly those of Cortez and Dunne, and its handling of complex social issues. The film was praised for its emotional depth and its portrayal of the immigrant experience in America. However, like many Pre-Code films, it has been subject to varying degrees of critical reevaluation over the years, with contemporary audiences and critics offering new interpretations of its themes and historical context.

Legacy

While not as widely remembered as some of its contemporaries, "Symphony of Six Million" is considered an important film in the history of American cinema for its early exploration of Jewish identity and its attempt to grapple with the ethical implications of medical practice. The film is also noted for its contribution to the careers of its cast and director Gregory La Cava, who would go on to achieve greater fame in Hollywood.