Fools' Parade (1971)
A Depression-era tale of freedom, greed, and survival starring James Stewart at his most quietly defiant.
Fools' Parade - Movie Information
- Original Title: Fools' Parade
- Release Year: 1971
- Directed by: Andrew V. McLaglen
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Comedy, Drama, Thriller
- Age Rating (US): G
- Runtime: 1h 38m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English, German
- Release Date (Theatrical): August 18, 1971 (United States - G), October 7, 1971 (Germany - 16)
- Alternative Titles: Die Gnadenlosen (DE)
- Production Companies: Columbia Pictures, Stanmore Productions, Penbar Productions
- Production Countries: United States of America
Fools' Parade - Plot
When a trio of ex-convicts led by Mattie Appleyard is released from prison, they hope to open a general store using money Mattie has saved during his 40-year sentence. This attempt is met with great resistance from a corrupt prison official and the banker who issued Mattie the check.
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Fools' Parade - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Andrew V. McLaglen
Main Cast
- James Stewart
- George Kennedy
- Anne Baxter
- Strother Martin
- Kurt Russell
- Katherine Cannon
- David Huddleston
- Mike Kellin
- William Windom
- Robert Donner
Writers
- James Lee Barrett
Producers
- Andrew V. McLaglen
Fools' Parade - FAQs
What is Fools' Parade about?
Fools' Parade follows Mattie Appleyard, an ex-convict released after 40 years in a West Virginia prison, who tries to open a general store with his hard-earned savings. Standing in his way are a ruthless prison guard and a crooked banker determined to keep him from collecting his money.
Is there a villain worth watching in Fools' Parade?
Absolutely. George Kennedy delivers a menacing turn as Dallas 'Doc' Council, a corrupt prison official who pursues Mattie with chilling determination. His antagonism gives the film real tension, making him one of the more memorable screen villains of early 1970s Hollywood cinema.
Where can you stream Fools' Parade right now?
You can catch Fools' Parade on fuboTV as part of a subscription, or watch it for free with ads on Tubi TV. Both are solid options depending on whether you prefer an ad-free experience or just want to dive in without signing up for anything new.
What role did Kurt Russell play in Fools' Parade?
Kurt Russell plays Johnny Jesus, one of the ex-convicts released alongside Mattie Appleyard. It's an early role for Russell, who was still building his career at the time, and it offers an interesting glimpse at the young actor before he became a major Hollywood star.
Who are the main actors in Fools' Parade?
The film boasts a terrific cast led by James Stewart as Mattie Appleyard, with George Kennedy, Anne Baxter, Strother Martin, and a young Kurt Russell rounding out the ensemble. William Windom, David Huddleston, and Mike Kellin also appear in notable supporting roles.
Is Fools' Parade based on a true story or a novel?
Fools' Parade is adapted from Davis Grubb's 1969 novel of the same name. Grubb, best known for writing Night of the Hunter, set the story in Depression-era West Virginia. Screenwriter James Lee Barrett translated the novel for the screen, preserving its gritty regional atmosphere.
What is the age rating for Fools' Parade?
Fools' Parade is rated G, which might surprise viewers given its themes of corruption, violence, and moral ambiguity. It's a reminder that the G rating in 1971 carried a somewhat different meaning than it does today, and the film has plenty of edge beneath its surface.
What is the setting and time period of Fools' Parade?
The film is set in Glory, West Virginia, in 1935, right in the heart of the Great Depression. That era of economic desperation and institutional corruption forms the perfect backdrop for Mattie's struggle, lending the story a sense of historical weight and social commentary.
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