Diamond Jim (1935)
A lavish Gilded Age portrait of the legendary tycoon "Diamond" Jim Brady, brought to life by Edward Arnold in a screenplay by Preston Sturges.
Diamond Jim - Movie Information
- Original Title: Diamond Jim
- Release Year: 1935
- Directed by: A. Edward Sutherland
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama
- Runtime: 1h 28m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): September 1, 1935 (United States)
- Production Companies: Universal Pictures
- Production Countries: United States of America
Diamond Jim - Plot
A loose biopic based on the life of Gilded Age tycoon "Diamond" Jim Brady.
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Diamond Jim - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- A. Edward Sutherland
Main Cast
- Edward Arnold
- Jean Arthur
- Binnie Barnes
- Cesar Romero
- Eric Blore
- Hugh O'Connell
- George Sidney
- Robert McWade
- Charles Sellon
- Henry Kolker
Writers
- Preston Sturges
Diamond Jim - FAQs
Is Diamond Jim based on a true story?
Yes, Diamond Jim is loosely based on the real life of James Buchanan Brady, a flamboyant Gilded Age financier and railroad equipment salesman famous for his extravagant lifestyle, love of jewels, and legendary appetite. The film takes creative liberties with the historical record while capturing the spirit of the era.
Who plays Diamond Jim Brady in the 1935 film?
Edward Arnold takes on the title role of Diamond Jim Brady, delivering a larger-than-life performance that matches the real man's outsized personality. Arnold brings warmth and charisma to the role, making Brady's rise from humble origins to Gilded Age celebrity feel both entertaining and surprisingly touching.
Who are the main actors in Diamond Jim?
The film stars Edward Arnold as Diamond Jim, Jean Arthur in a dual role as Jane Matthews and Emma, and Binnie Barnes as the legendary entertainer Lillian Russell. Cesar Romero, Eric Blore, and Hugh O'Connell round out a strong supporting cast in this lively Gilded Age drama.
What is Diamond Jim (1935) about?
Diamond Jim follows the rise of James "Diamond" Jim Brady from a working-class boy to one of America's most flamboyant Gilded Age personalities. The story traces his business ambitions, his passion for jewels and fine dining, and his complicated romantic life, painting a vivid portrait of excess and charm in turn-of-the-century America.
Who directed Diamond Jim in 1935?
Diamond Jim was directed by A. Edward Sutherland, a seasoned Hollywood director known for his work in comedy and light drama throughout the 1930s. Sutherland keeps the film moving at a brisk pace, balancing the biographical sweep of Brady's life with plenty of period color and wit.
Who wrote the screenplay for Diamond Jim?
The screenplay was written by Preston Sturges, who would go on to become one of Hollywood's most celebrated writer-directors. His sharp, witty dialogue and flair for colorful characters are already evident here, making Diamond Jim a notable early example of his distinctive voice before his directorial breakthrough.
What is the runtime of Diamond Jim (1935)?
Diamond Jim runs for 88 minutes, making it a brisk and well-paced watch. At just under an hour and a half, the film covers Brady's remarkable life story without overstaying its welcome, moving efficiently from his scrappy beginnings through his glittering rise to Gilded Age fame.
What are some movies similar to Diamond Jim?
If you enjoy Diamond Jim, you might also like Babylon (2022), Elvis (2022), Back to Black (2024), and The Life and Death of Peter Sellers (2004). These films share a similar fascination with larger-than-life personalities, the price of fame, and the spectacle of lives lived at full throttle.
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