What is the primary subject of the 1944 biographical film titled 'Wilson'?

The 1944 biographical film 'Wilson' centers on the life and presidency of Woodrow Wilson, who served as the 28th president of the United States. The film chronicles his journey from his academic career to his time in the White House.

Who directed the 1944 film 'Wilson', and what notable actors were featured in its cast?

The 1944 film 'Wilson' was directed by Henry King. The cast included Alexander Knox in the leading role as Woodrow Wilson, alongside Charles Coburn, Geraldine Fitzgerald, Thomas Mitchell, Ruth Nelson, Sir Cedric Hardwicke, Vincent Price, William Eythe, and Mary Anderson.

Who was the producer of 'Wilson', and what was his personal connection to the film's subject?

Darryl F. Zanuck, the head of 20th Century-Fox at the time, produced 'Wilson'. Zanuck was a fervent admirer of Woodrow Wilson and personally oversaw the production of the film.

What was the original format and aspect ratio of the film 'Wilson'?

The film 'Wilson' was shot in Technicolor, a then-advanced color film process that produced vibrant hues. It was filmed in the standard aspect ratio of the era.

When was the film 'Wilson' released theatrically, and what was its approximate running time?

The theatrical release date for 'Wilson' was August 1, 1944. The film has a running time of 154 minutes, making it a relatively long feature for its time.

What was the reported budget for the film 'Wilson', and how did its box office performance compare?

The film 'Wilson' had a substantial budget of $5.2 million, which was considered very high for a film produced by 20th Century-Fox at that time. Despite its critical acclaim, it was a box office bomb, earning only $3.103 million in U.S. and Canada rentals, resulting in a reported loss of $2 million for the studio.

How did Darryl F. Zanuck react to the financial underperformance of 'Wilson'?

Darryl F. Zanuck was reportedly so disappointed by the box office failure of 'Wilson' that he forbade employees of 20th Century-Fox from mentioning the film in his presence for many years.

What was Woodrow Wilson's position before entering politics, as depicted in the film?

Before entering politics, Woodrow Wilson was the president of Princeton University and had authored several books discussing the democratic process. This academic background shaped his views on governance.

How did Woodrow Wilson transition from academia to state politics?

Woodrow Wilson was persuaded by the local Democratic Party political machine to run for Governor of New Jersey. He successfully won the election in 1910, marking his entry into elected office.

What characterized Wilson's governorship of New Jersey?

As Governor of New Jersey, Wilson demonstrated independence from the political machine that helped him get elected. He actively pursued and fought for progressive causes during his term.

What political climate allowed Wilson to win the U.S. presidency in 1912?

Wilson's path to the presidency in 1912 was facilitated by a significant split within the Republican Party. This division created an opportunity for the Democratic ticket to gain traction and ultimately win the election.

What was the name of the legislative agenda Woodrow Wilson pursued during his presidency?

During his presidency, Woodrow Wilson championed a series of progressive programs collectively known as 'The New Freedom'. This agenda aimed to reform economic and social structures.

How did Wilson initially respond to the outbreak of World War I in Europe in 1914?

When World War I erupted in Europe in 1914, President Wilson's initial policy was to maintain neutrality for the United States. He sought to keep the nation out of the escalating European conflict.

What significant personal event occurred for Woodrow Wilson during the early years of World War I?

During the early years of World War I, President Wilson experienced a profound personal loss when his first wife, Ellen Axson Wilson, died of Bright's disease. This occurred around the same time as the sinking of the RMS Lusitania.

Who was Woodrow Wilson's second wife, and when did they marry?

Woodrow Wilson met Edith Bolling Galt, a widow from Washington D.C., in early 1915. He married her in December of the same year, during his first term as president.

What major foreign policy initiative did Wilson champion after World War I?

Following the Allied victory in World War I, Wilson traveled to France to participate in the Paris Peace Conference. His primary goal was to establish his long-advocated League of Nations, an international organization intended to prevent future wars.

Why did the League of Nations treaty face opposition in the United States Senate?

Many Republican senators, notably Henry Cabot Lodge, opposed the treaty bringing the League of Nations back to the United States. They believed that joining the League would make the nation vulnerable to future conflicts and decided to block its ratification.

What health crisis did Woodrow Wilson suffer while campaigning for the League of Nations?

While undertaking a multi-state tour to rally public support for the League of Nations, President Wilson's health deteriorated significantly. He suffered a severe stroke shortly after returning to Washington D.C.

What role did Edith Wilson play following her husband's stroke?

Following President Wilson's stroke, his wife Edith took on a significant role in managing his affairs. She shielded him from public view and carefully screened visitors, which led to speculation about her influence and the extent of Wilson's actual participation in presidential duties.

Who was cast in the role of Woodrow Wilson's first wife, Ellen Wilson?

The role of Ellen Wilson, Woodrow Wilson's first wife, was portrayed by actress Ruth Nelson in the 1944 film.

Which actor portrayed Senator Henry Cabot Lodge, a key political opponent of Wilson's League of Nations plan?

Sir Cedric Hardwicke played the role of Senator Henry Cabot Lodge, a prominent figure who opposed President Wilson's post-World War I foreign policy initiatives.

Who played the character of Edith Wilson, Woodrow Wilson's second wife?

Geraldine Fitzgerald took on the role of Edith Wilson, Woodrow Wilson's second wife, who played a crucial role in managing his health and public appearances after his stroke.

What was the initial concept for the film 'Wilson' before it became a biopic?

Initially, 'Wilson' was conceived as a historical drama focusing on a fictional American family living through the Progressive Era. However, writer Lamar Trotti later reshaped the narrative into a biographical film about Woodrow Wilson.

Who provided informal counsel during the development of the film 'Wilson'?

Eleanor Wilson McAdoo, one of Woodrow Wilson's daughters, served as an informal counselor during the film's development. Her insights likely helped shape the portrayal of her father and family life.

Who was consulted as an advisor for the film 'Wilson' due to his expertise on the subject?

Ray Stannard Baker, a journalist recognized as an authority on Woodrow Wilson, served as an advisor for the film. His knowledge contributed to the historical accuracy of the production.

Which actors were considered for the role of Woodrow Wilson before Alexander Knox was cast?

Before Alexander Knox was ultimately chosen for the leading role of Woodrow Wilson, actors Ronald Colman and Frank Conroy were considered for the part. This indicates the studio explored several options for portraying the former president.

What challenges did the production team face during the casting and pre-production phases of 'Wilson'?

The production encountered several hurdles, including the death of Dwight Frye, who was cast as Secretary of War Newton D. Baker, shortly before his scheduled filming. Additionally, cinematographer Ernest Palmer was replaced by Leon Shamroy due to illness, and art director James Basevi departed following disagreements with the crew.

How did the film 'Wilson' utilize its substantial budget during production?

A significant portion of the film's $5.2 million budget was allocated to constructing highly accurate and detailed sets. These recreated key locations within the White House, such as the East Room, Blue Room, Oval Office, and Lincoln Bedroom, aiming for historical authenticity.

Where were some of the key filming locations for 'Wilson'?

Filming for 'Wilson' took place in various locations. Scenes depicting the Democratic National Convention were shot at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles. Princeton University scenes were filmed on location in Trenton, New Jersey. Other filming sites included the Biltmore Theater in Los Angeles, Pueblo, Colorado, and the Midwick Country Club in Alhambra, California.

How was 'Wilson' promoted to the public prior to its release?

The film 'Wilson' was promoted through various channels, including an adaptation of parts of its script broadcast on the NBC Blue Network radio show 'Hall of Fame Broadcast'. This helped generate audience interest before the film's premiere.

Why was the film 'Wilson' prohibited from being shown on U.S. Armed Forces bases during World War II?

The United States Department of War prohibited the exhibition of 'Wilson' on military bases during World War II. This was done under the provisions of the Soldier Voting Act, which restricted the screening of political material that could potentially influence upcoming elections, such as the November 7, 1944 elections.

What impact did the film's high budget have on its theatrical distribution and pricing?

Due to its high production cost of $5.2 million, 20th Century-Fox demanded significantly higher rental fees and a larger percentage of admission revenue from theaters showing 'Wilson'. This led to theaters being forced to charge much higher ticket prices, sometimes up to $1.10, which deterred many potential customers.

What was the critical reception of 'Wilson', according to contemporary reviews?

The film 'Wilson' generally received positive reviews, though it did face criticism. Critics like Manny Farber found it 'costly, tedious and impotent,' while James Agee felt Hollywood had simplified the complex character and themes of Wilson's life, reducing them to generalizations and timidity.

How did President Franklin D. Roosevelt react to the film 'Wilson'?

President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who considered himself a protégé of Woodrow Wilson, screened the film for guests during the Second Quebec Conference in 1944. This suggests he viewed the film favorably.

What was Winston Churchill's reaction to watching the film 'Wilson'?

British Prime Minister Winston Churchill did not seem to appreciate the film 'Wilson'. He reportedly excused himself midway through the screening and went to bed, indicating a lack of interest or engagement with the movie.

At which Academy Awards ceremony did 'Wilson' receive nominations and wins?

'Wilson' received ten nominations at the 17th Academy Awards. The film ultimately won five Oscars, including Best Writing, Original Screenplay.

Which five Academy Awards did 'Wilson' win?

The film 'Wilson' won five Academy Awards: Best Art Direction-Interior Decoration, Color; Best Cinematography, Color; Best Film Editing; Best Sound, Recording; and Best Writing, Original Screenplay.

For which five categories was 'Wilson' nominated but did not win at the Academy Awards?

In addition to its five wins, 'Wilson' was nominated for Best Picture, Best Director (Henry King), Best Actor (Alexander Knox), Best Music, Scoring of a Dramatic or Comedy Picture (Alfred Newman), and Best Effects, Special Effects (Fred Sersen and Roger Heman Sr.).

What is the significance of the Academy Film Archive's involvement with 'Wilson'?

The Academy Film Archive preserved the film 'Wilson' in 2006. This action ensures that the film is maintained and accessible for future study and appreciation, safeguarding a piece of cinematic history.

What role did Alexander Knox play in the film 'Wilson'?

Alexander Knox, primarily known as a character actor, was given a rare leading role in 'Wilson' where he portrayed the titular character, President Woodrow Wilson. His performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

What was the purpose of the detailed White House sets constructed for the film?

The detailed sets for White House locations like the East Room, Blue Room, Oval Office, and Lincoln Bedroom were constructed to enhance the film's historical authenticity and visual richness, reflecting the grandeur of the presidential residence.

Who was Lamar Trotti?

Lamar Trotti was the screenwriter credited with writing the screenplay for the 1944 film 'Wilson'. He adapted the story into a biographical narrative about the 28th U.S. President.

What does the film 'Wilson' depict regarding the U.S. entry into World War I?

The film shows President Wilson's initial efforts to keep the United States neutral in World War I. However, it also depicts how the conflict eventually drew America into the war during his second term.

What key legislative achievements of Wilson's presidency are referenced in the film's plot?

The film's plot references Wilson's pursuit of progressive reforms under his 'The New Freedom' agenda. Specific legislative achievements mentioned in the broader context of his presidency include the Federal Reserve Act and the Clayton Antitrust Act, though the film focuses more on his political and personal journey.

What was the film 'Wilson's' critical standing, despite its commercial failure?

Despite being a box office bomb, 'Wilson' was critically acclaimed, earning ten nominations at the 17th Academy Awards and winning five. This indicates that while audiences did not flock to see it, critics and industry professionals recognized its artistic merits.

What is the significance of the film being shot in Technicolor?

Being shot in Technicolor meant 'Wilson' utilized a process that produced color imagery, a relatively advanced technique at the time. This likely contributed to the film's visual appeal and the detailed recreation of historical settings.

What role did Henry Cabot Lodge play in the narrative of 'Wilson'?

In the film's narrative, Senator Henry Cabot Lodge is depicted as a key political figure who actively opposed President Wilson's efforts to establish the League of Nations, ultimately blocking the treaty in the Senate.

What does the film suggest about the relationship between Woodrow Wilson and his second wife, Edith?

The film portrays Edith Wilson as a devoted wife who became increasingly influential after her husband suffered a stroke. Her actions in shielding him and managing access led to questions about the extent of her power during his final years in office.

What historical event is referenced in relation to Wilson's second marriage?

Woodrow Wilson married Edith Bolling Galt in December 1915, during his first term as president. This occurred while he was navigating the complexities of World War I and dealing with the personal tragedy of his first wife's death.

What was the film 'Wilson's' overall critical and commercial outcome?

Critically, 'Wilson' was highly regarded, earning numerous Academy Award nominations and wins. Commercially, however, it was a significant failure, deemed a 'box office bomb' due to its high budget and resulting high ticket prices, compounded by wartime restrictions.

Wilson 1944 Film Wiki: Presidential Portrait: The Cinematic Journey of Woodrow Wilson

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Film Overview

A Biographical Epic

Wilson is a 1944 American biographical film chronicling the life of Woodrow Wilson, the 28th President of the United States. Directed by Henry King and produced by Darryl F. Zanuck, the film was shot in Technicolor and featured a notable cast including Alexander Knox as Wilson, Charles Coburn, Geraldine Fitzgerald, and Vincent Price. Zanuck, a fervent admirer of Wilson, personally oversaw the production, casting character actor Alexander Knox in a rare leading role.

Critical Acclaim, Commercial Disappointment

The film garnered significant critical acclaim, earning ten nominations at the 17th Academy Awards and securing five wins, including Best Original Screenplay. Despite its artistic merits, Wilson was a considerable box office bomb due to its substantial budget, leading to disappointment for its producers and impacting its initial legacy.

Historical Scope

The narrative spans Wilson's career from his presidency at Princeton University through his two terms as President, his efforts to maintain neutrality during World War I, his personal life including the death of his first wife and remarriage, and his pivotal role in establishing the League of Nations. The film concludes with his health failing after a strenuous tour advocating for the League, and his eventual retirement.

Plot Synopsis

From Academia to the White House

The film commences in 1909, depicting Woodrow Wilson as the President of Princeton University. Persuaded by the Democratic Party's political machine, he enters the gubernatorial race in New Jersey, winning in 1910 and subsequently establishing himself as an independent reformer. This political ascent leads to his nomination and victory in the 1912 presidential election, ushering in his "New Freedom" agenda.

Navigating War and Diplomacy

As World War I erupts in Europe, Wilson endeavors to keep the United States neutral. Concurrently, he experiences the personal tragedy of his first wife Ellen's death. He finds new companionship and marries Edith Bolling Galt in late 1915. Re-elected in 1916, Wilson is eventually drawn into the global conflict. Post-war, he travels to France for the Paris Peace Conference, championing his vision for the League of Nations, but faces significant opposition from Republican senators like Henry Cabot Lodge.

Health and Legacy

In his campaign to garner public support for the League, Wilson undertakes a demanding cross-country tour, which ultimately leads to a severe stroke. His wife, Edith, assumes a protective role, managing access and influencing decisions, raising questions about presidential authority. The film concludes with Wilson's administration ending, marked by the election of Republican Warren G. Harding, and Wilson's enduring hope for the future success of international cooperation, despite his personal failures.

Principal Cast

Key Performances

The film features a distinguished ensemble cast, bringing historical figures to life:

Alexander Knox as Woodrow Wilson
Charles Coburn as Professor Henry Holmes
Geraldine Fitzgerald as Edith Wilson
Thomas Mitchell as Joseph Tumulty
Ruth Nelson as Ellen Wilson
Sir Cedric Hardwicke as Senator Henry Cabot Lodge
Vincent Price as William G. McAdoo
William Eythe as George Felton
Mary Anderson as Eleanor Wilson
Sidney Blackmer as Josephus Daniels

Madeleine Forbes as Jessie Wilson
Stanley Ridges as Admiral Grayson
Eddie Foy Jr. as Eddie Foy
Charles Halton as Colonel House
Thurston Hall as Senator E.H. Jones / James Smith Jr.
J. M. Kerrigan as Edward Sullivan
James Rennie as Jim Beeker
Katherine Locke as Helen Bones
Stanley Logan as Robert Lansing
Marcel Dalio as Georges Clemenceau
Edwin Maxwell as William Jennings Bryan
Clifford Brooke as David Lloyd George
Tonio Selwart as Count Johann Heinrich von Bernstorff
John Ince as Senator Watson
Charles Miller as Senator Bromfield
Francis X. Bushman as Bernard Baruch (uncredited)
Davison Clark as Champ Clark (uncredited)
Eula Morgan as Singer (uncredited)
Jess Lee Brooks as Simms (uncredited)

Production Details

Development and Casting

Initially conceived as a drama about the Progressive Era, the script was rewritten by Lamar Trotti into a biopic of Woodrow Wilson. Wilson's daughter, Eleanor Wilson McAdoo, served as an informal consultant, and historian Ray Stannard Baker acted as an advisor. Before Alexander Knox was cast as Wilson, actors like Ronald Colman and Frank Conroy were considered. Claudette Colbert was initially considered for one of Wilson's wives.

Filming and Budget

With a substantial budget of $5.2 million, Wilson was Fox's most expensive film at the time. Extensive and accurate sets were constructed for White House interiors. Filming locations included the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, Trenton, New Jersey, and Midwick Country Club in Alhambra, California. Cinematographer Ernest Palmer was replaced by Leon Shamroy due to illness, and art director James Basevi departed over creative differences.

Reception and Performance

Box Office Performance

Despite its critical success, Wilson was a significant commercial failure, reportedly losing $2 million for Fox. Its high rental fees and admission prices, mandated by the studio due to the film's cost, deterred audiences. Furthermore, the U.S. Department of War prohibited its exhibition on Armed Forces bases during World War II, citing provisions against political material that could influence elections.

Critical Reviews

While generally receiving positive reviews, the film faced criticism for its perceived limitations. Manny Farber of The New Republic described it as "costly, tedious and impotent," noting its tendency to omit complex historical details. James Agee, writing for The Nation, felt that Hollywood reduced Wilson's complexity to generalizations and flunked major opportunities, attributing this to timidity and a desire to ingratiate.

Awards and Recognition

Academy Award Success

At the 17th Academy Awards, Wilson received ten nominations and won five awards:

Best Art Direction-Interior Decoration, Color (Wiard Ihnen, Thomas Little)
Best Cinematography, Color (Leon Shamroy)
Best Film Editing (Barbara McLean)
Best Sound, Recording (E. H. Hansen)
Best Writing, Original Screenplay (Lamar Trotti)

The film was also nominated for Best Picture, Best Director (Henry King), Best Actor (Alexander Knox), Best Music Score, and Best Special Effects.

Film Preservation

Archival Significance

Recognizing its historical and cinematic value, the Academy Film Archive preserved Wilson in 2006. This ensures the film's availability for future study and appreciation by scholars and cinephiles.

External Resources

Further Information

For more detailed information and resources related to the film Wilson, please consult the following:

AFI Catalog of Feature Films (opens in new tab)
IMDb (opens in new tab)
Turner Classic Movies Database (opens in new tab)
Rotten Tomatoes (opens in new tab)

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References

marciamarciamarcie (November 7, 2009). "WlsnE". YouTube. Retrieved November 27, 2024.

Knock, Thomas J. "History with Lightning": The Forgotten Film Wilson. American Quarterly, Vol. 28, No. 5 (Winter, 1976), pp. 523â543

"You Can Sell Almost Anything", Variety 20 March 1946

Thomas di Lorenzo, New Paltz Theatre, New Paltz, N. Y., published in Motion Picture Herald, Dec. 2, 1944, p. 36.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Wilson (1944 film) Wikipedia page

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Presidential Portrait: The Cinematic Journey of Woodrow Wilson

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Film Overview 📜

🎬 A Biographical Epic

🏆 Critical Acclaim, Commercial Disappointment

🏛️ Historical Scope

Plot Synopsis ✍️

➡️ From Academia to the White House

🌍 Navigating War and Diplomacy

💔 Health and Legacy

Principal Cast 🎭

⭐ Key Performances

Production Details ⚙️

💡 Development and Casting

🎬 Filming and Budget

Reception and Performance 📊

💰 Box Office Performance

💬 Critical Reviews

Awards and Recognition 🏆

⭐ Academy Award Success

Film Preservation 🗄️

🏛️ Archival Significance

External Resources 🔗

🌐 Further Information

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Film Overview

A Biographical Epic

Critical Acclaim, Commercial Disappointment

Historical Scope

Plot Synopsis

From Academia to the White House

Navigating War and Diplomacy

Health and Legacy

Principal Cast

Key Performances

Production Details

Development and Casting

Filming and Budget

Reception and Performance

Box Office Performance

Critical Reviews

Awards and Recognition

Academy Award Success

Film Preservation

Archival Significance

External Resources

Further Information

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice