The Light Ahead (1939)
The Light Ahead is possibly the greatest of Edgar G. Ulmer’s shtetl films. Here, the director counterpoints his pastoral Green Fields to criticize the poverty and superstition that oppress a pair of star-crossed lovers. Made on the eve of World War II, The Light Ahead is at once romantic, expressionist, and painfully conscious of the danger about to engulf European Jews. Impoverished and disabled lovers Fishke and Hodel dream of life in the big city of Odessa, free from the poverty and stifling old-world prejudices of the shtetl. The benevolent and enlightened bookseller Mendele helps them, turning small-town superstitions to their advantage. Based on Mendele Mokher Seforim's story of love frustrated by small-town ignorance, this luminous allegory of escape marries Edgar Ulmer's masterful direction with superb acting by members of New York's Artef and Yiddish Art Theaters.
Cast
- Helen Beverly - Hodele (the blind)
- David Opatoshu - Fishke (the lame)
- Isidore Cashier - Mendele Moicher Sforim
Screenplay
- Shirley Ulmer (Screenplay)
- Edgar G. Ulmer (Screenplay)
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is The Light Ahead about?
- The Light Ahead is possibly the greatest of Edgar G. Ulmer’s shtetl films. Here, the director counterpoints his pastoral Green Fields to criticize the poverty and superstition that oppress a pair of star-crossed lovers. Made on the eve of World War II, The Light Ahead is at once romantic, expressionist, and painfully conscious of the danger about to engulf European Jews. Impoverished and disabled lovers Fishke and Hodel dream of life in the big city of Odessa, free from the poverty and stifling old-world prejudices of the shtetl. The benevolent and enlightened bookseller Mendele helps them, turning small-town superstitions to their advantage. Based on Mendele Mokher Seforim's story of love frustrated by small-town ignorance, this luminous allegory of escape marries Edgar Ulmer's masterful direction with superb acting by members of New York's Artef and Yiddish Art Theaters.
- Who directed The Light Ahead?
- The Light Ahead was directed by Edgar G. Ulmer.
- Who stars in The Light Ahead?
- The Light Ahead stars Helen Beverly, David Opatoshu, Isidore Cashier.
- How long is The Light Ahead?
- The Light Ahead has a runtime of 1h 34m (94 minutes).
- What genre is The Light Ahead?
- The Light Ahead is a Drama film.
- Where was The Light Ahead produced?
- The Light Ahead was produced in United States of America.