Harry Harvey Jr.
Actor
About Harry Harvey Jr.
Harry Harvey Jr. was a child actor who appeared in American cinema during the mid-1930s. His brief film career consisted of a single credited role in the exploitation film 'Tell Your Children' (1936), which would later be re-released under the infamous title 'Reefer Madness.' As a juvenile performer in the early sound era, Harvey Jr. was part of the transition from silent films to talkies, though his career was remarkably brief even by child actor standards. The film in which he appeared was produced on a minimal budget as an exploitation piece meant to warn audiences about the supposed dangers of marijuana use. Unlike many child actors of the era who went on to have substantial careers in Hollywood, Harvey Jr. seemingly disappeared from the film industry after this single appearance, making him somewhat of an enigma in cinema history. His performance, like those of his fellow cast members, was characterized by the melodramatic style typical of exploitation films of the period.
The Craft
On Screen
Characterized by the melodramatic, exaggerated style typical of exploitation films of the 1930s, with performances designed to shock and warn rather than entertain
Milestones
- Appeared in 'Tell Your Children' (1936), later re-released as 'Reefer Madness'
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Harry Harvey Jr.'s contribution to cinema history, while minimal in scope, is part of the legacy of 'Reefer Madness,' one of the most infamous exploitation films ever made. The film, initially titled 'Tell Your Children,' has transcended its original purpose as a moral warning to become a cultural phenomenon, frequently screened at midnight movie events and celebrated for its unintentional humor and camp value. As one of the child performers in this notorious production, Harvey Jr. is indirectly connected to the film's journey from serious warning to cult classic status.
Lasting Legacy
Harry Harvey Jr. represents the many child actors from Hollywood's early sound era whose careers were brief and largely undocumented. His single film credit places him within the context of exploitation cinema, a genre that, while often dismissed critically, provides valuable insight into American cultural anxieties and film history. The film he appeared in has achieved a unique place in cinema history as one of the most famous 'so bad it's good' movies, ensuring that even minor participants like Harvey Jr. have a footnote in film history.
Who They Inspired
As a child actor with only one known film credit, Harry Harvey Jr.'s direct influence on other performers or filmmakers is not documented. However, his participation in what would become a cult classic places him within the broader context of exploitation cinema's influence on later filmmakers and the appreciation of 'outsider' films in cinema culture.
Off Screen
Very little is documented about Harry Harvey Jr.'s personal life, which is not uncommon for child actors who had brief careers in low-budget films during the 1930s.
Did You Know?
- 'Tell Your Children' was later re-released as 'Reefer Madness' and became one of the most famous exploitation films in cinema history
- The film was originally produced as a serious warning about marijuana dangers but later gained fame as an unintentional comedy
- Harry Harvey Jr. should not be confused with Harry Harvey Sr. (1911-1985), a more prolific character actor
- The film was produced on an extremely low budget, typical of exploitation films of the era
- Despite its notoriety, very little is known about most of the film's cast members, including child actors
- The film was rediscovered and gained cult status in the 1970s, decades after its initial release
- Harry Harvey Jr.'s career lasted only one year according to available film records
- Exploitation films like 'Tell Your Children' often used unknown actors to keep costs low
- The film's director, Louis J. Gasnier, had previously directed legitimate films but turned to exploitation work later in his career
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Harry Harvey Jr.?
Harry Harvey Jr. was a child actor who appeared in American cinema during the 1930s, known for his single role in the exploitation film 'Tell Your Children' (1936), which was later re-released as the infamous 'Reefer Madness.' His career was remarkably brief, spanning only one year according to available records.
What films is Harry Harvey Jr. best known for?
Harry Harvey Jr. is known exclusively for his appearance in 'Tell Your Children' (1936), a low-budget exploitation film that would later be re-released under the title 'Reefer Madness' and achieve cult classic status decades after its initial release.
When was Harry Harvey Jr. born and when did he die?
Unfortunately, specific birth and death dates for Harry Harvey Jr. are not documented in available film records, which is not uncommon for child actors who had brief careers in low-budget productions during the 1930s.
What awards did Harry Harvey Jr. win?
Harry Harvey Jr. did not receive any known awards or nominations for his brief film work, which was limited to a single appearance in a low-budget exploitation film.
What was Harry Harvey Jr.'s acting style?
Based on his appearance in 'Tell Your Children,' Harvey Jr.'s acting style was characteristic of the melodramatic and exaggerated performances typical of exploitation films of the 1930s, designed to deliver moral warnings rather than subtle character development.
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Films
1 film
