Life Begins at 8:30 (1942)
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In this drama, a has-been stage thespian finds that his alcoholism is ruining his life. When his daughter, a cripple, attempts to show her concern, he rebuffs her with his cruel, razor sharp witticism. His drinking and cynicism continue to increase, but, through it all, his daughter stands steadfastly beside him until her heart is stolen away by a handsome composer. He begins helping her to convince the theatrical community that her father is still a talented actor. Meanwhile, the father, thinking the composer will take his daughter away, remains suspicious of the young man's motives. Finally, after working in a series of odd jobs, the old man lands the lead in King Lear where he is a smash. He then renews a relationship with a wealthy old girlfriend. Meanwhile, the young couple also begin their relationship in earnest. ~ Sandra Brennan, All Movie Guide
Complete Cast:
- Monty Woolley - Madden Thomas
- Cornel Wilde - Robert
- Melville Cooper - Barty
- William Demarest - Officer
- William Halligan - Sgt. McNamara
- Inez Palange - Mrs. Spano
- James Flavin - Policeman
- Wheaton Chambers - Floorwalker
- Colin Campbell - Dresser
- Lee Phelps - Bartender
- Cyril Ring - Box Office Man
- Ida Lupino - Kathi Thomas
- Sara Allgood - Mrs. Lothian
- J. Edward Bromberg - Gordon
- Hal K. Dawson - Producer
- Milton Parsons - Announcer
- Charles La Torre - Mr. Spano
- Fay Helm - Ruthie
- Bud Geary - Cab Driver
- Netta Packer - Maid
- Alec Craig - Santa Claus
- George Holmes - Jerry
- Director(s):
- Irving Pichel
- Writer(s):
- Nunnally Johnson
- Producer(s):
- Nunnally Johnson
- Closed Captioning:
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- Subtitles:
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