Society Fever

Plot

In this 1935 comedy, a well-to-do mother becomes increasingly anxious when her daughter announces that wealthy friends have been invited to dinner to meet the family. The mother's worries escalate as she anticipates the potential embarrassment that her eccentric and somewhat screwball family members might cause during the high-society gathering. As the dinner approaches, various family members create chaos and complications through their unconventional behavior and social mishaps. The film culminates in a disastrous dinner party where social pretensions collide with working-class authenticity, ultimately leading to humorous revelations about class distinctions and family values. Through the ensuing comedy of errors, the characters learn important lessons about social climbing, family loyalty, and the true meaning of social standing.

Historical Background

Released in 1935, 'Society Fever' emerged during the Great Depression when audiences sought escapist entertainment. The film's theme of social class anxiety resonated with Depression-era viewers who were experiencing economic hardship and social mobility challenges. The mid-1930s saw the rise of the screwball comedy genre, which often pitted high society against working-class values. This film fits into that tradition, though on a more modest budget than the major studio productions like 'My Man Godfrey' (1936). The movie industry was also transitioning from the early sound era to more sophisticated filmmaking techniques, and this film represents the B-movie equivalent of that evolution. The year 1935 was significant for the implementation of the Hays Code enforcement, which would increasingly influence film content and themes.

Making Of

The production was typical of Poverty Row filmmaking in the 1930s, with minimal resources and tight shooting schedules. Director Frank R. Strayer was known for his ability to deliver competent entertainment on shoestring budgets. The cast, particularly Lois Wilson and Lloyd Hughes, were both former major stars adapting to the changing Hollywood landscape where they were now considered character actors. The dinner party scene, which forms the climax of the film, was reportedly chaotic to film as the cast improvised many of their comedic moments. Hedda Hopper, who would soon transition to her famous career as a gossip columnist, brought her sharp wit and social observations to her role. The film's modest budget meant that most scenes were shot with minimal takes, and the actors had to be prepared with their lines and blocking before cameras rolled.

Visual Style

The cinematography by Harry Neumann was straightforward and functional, typical of B-movie productions of the era. The lighting was basic but effective, using standard three-point lighting techniques for most scenes. The camera work was static for dialogue scenes, with minimal movement to save time and money. The dinner party sequence featured slightly more dynamic camera work to capture the chaotic action, but remained within the technical constraints of the budget. The black and white photography showed good contrast and clarity, considering the film's modest production values.

Innovations

As a modest B-movie production, 'Society Fever' did not feature significant technical innovations. The film employed standard filmmaking techniques of the mid-1930s, including basic sound recording and conventional cinematography. The main technical achievement was the efficient production methods that allowed the film to be completed quickly and inexpensively while maintaining professional quality. The single-take dinner party scene demonstrated director Frank R. Strayer's ability to coordinate complex action within the constraints of limited shooting time and budget.

Music

The musical score was typical of low-budget productions, using library music and minimal original composition. The film featured standard background music that enhanced the comedic moments without drawing attention to itself. No notable songs or musical numbers were included, keeping the focus on the dialogue and physical comedy. The sound recording was basic but clear, with the dialogue remaining intelligible throughout. The film used music primarily to set mood and punctuate comedic moments, following the conventions of 1930s comedy filmmaking.

Memorable Scenes

• The chaotic dinner party scene where the family's eccentric behavior overwhelms their wealthy guests, culminating in a series of social mishaps and revelations that expose the absurdity of social pretensions.

What Critics Said

Contemporary reviews were modest, with critics acknowledging the film's entertainment value despite its obvious budget limitations. The Hollywood Reporter noted that 'the comedy, while not original, provides sufficient amusement for the second-feature market.' Variety praised the performances of the veteran cast, particularly Lois Wilson's comedic timing. Modern critics have rarely had the opportunity to review the film due to its rarity, but film historians consider it a representative example of mid-1930s B-movie comedy. The few retrospective reviews that exist note the film's efficient storytelling and the professional work of director Frank R. Strayer in delivering a competent product within severe constraints.

What Audiences Thought

Audience reception in 1935 appears to have been generally positive for its intended market as a second feature. Moviegoers of the era appreciated the light-hearted comedy and relatable family dynamics during difficult economic times. The film's themes of social anxiety and family loyalty resonated with Depression-era audiences. While it didn't generate the excitement of major studio productions, it served its purpose as enjoyable entertainment that filled out theater programs. The film's modest success at the box office was typical for Majestic Pictures releases, which targeted smaller theaters and rural markets where big studio films might not immediately play.

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