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1928 Movies
Browse 340 titles in our 1928 Movies Database
- The Passion of Joan of Arc
- The Circus
- Steamboat Bill, Jr.
- Wings
- The Cameraman
- The Jazz Singer
- The Crowd
- October (Ten Days that Shook the World)
- The Man Who Laughs
- The Wind
- The Docks of New York
- The Last Command
- The Fall of the House of Usher
- Speedy
- Show People
- Spies
- The Farmer's Wife
- Easy Virtue
- Sadie Thompson
- The Patsy
- Champagne
- Lonesome
- Street Angel
- Storm Over Asia
- Laugh, Clown, Laugh
- Ghosts Before Breakfast
- Our Dancing Daughters
- West Point
- West of Zanzibar
- The Wedding March
- A Woman of Affairs
- The Student Prince in Old Heidelberg
- The Racket
- The Starfish
- The Little Match Girl
- Two Tars
- The Mysterious Lady
- The Life and Death of 9413, a Hollywood Extra
- The Fall of the House of Usher
- The Finishing Touch
- Beggars of Life
- You're Darn Tootin'
- Love
- Across to Singapore
- Zvenigora
- From Soup to Nuts
- L'Argent
- Leave 'em Laughing
- The Smart Set
- We Faw Down
- The Gallopin' Gaucho
- White Shadows in the South Seas
- Lights of New York
- The Divine Lady
- The Horse Ate the Hat
- Four Sons
- Habeas Corpus
- The Cardboard Lover
- The Love of Jeanne Ney
- Their Purple Moment
- A Girl in Every Port
- Should Married Men Go Home?
- The Last Warning
- Early to Bed
- The Cossacks
- Lilac Time
- Dom na Trubnoy
- Flying Elephants
- The Matinee Idol
- Underground
- Hangman's House
- A Lady of Chance
- Tempest
- The Battle of the Sexes
- The Bridge
- Ko-Ko's Earth Control
- The Garden of Eden
- The Viking
- The Divine Woman
- Shooting Stars
- Crossroads
- The Trail of '98
- A Daughter of Destiny
- Four Walls
- The Mating Call
- The Eleventh Year
- Siren of the Tropics
- The Telltale Heart
- The Gaucho
- Shiraz
- The Power of the Press
- Sex in Chains
- Submarine
- Daphnia
- That Certain Thing
- The Sad Sack
- Moulin Rouge
- The Beau Brummels
- While the City Sleeps
- Riley the Cop
- Misdeal
- Fazil
- Feel My Pulse
- Rose-Marie
- Two Timid Souls
- A Ship Comes In
- Homecoming
- Dream of Love
- Eleven P.M.
- The Law of the Range
- The Diplomatic Pouch
- Ramona
- The Red Dance
- Glorious Betsy
- The Great Leap
- Verdun: Looking at History
- Bringing Up Father
- Interference
- Skyscraper
- The Mystery of the Eiffel Tower
- So This Is Love
- The Woman Disputed
- The Chaser
- The Barker
- Doomsday
- Pan Tadeusz
- Impatience
- The Beggar from Cologne Cathedral
- The Shield of Honor
- Bare Knees
- Sleeping Ember
- Chips of the Old Block
- The Way of the Strong
- Drums of Love
- The Sideshow
- Limousine Love
- The Constant Nymph
- The Air Circus
- Études sur Paris
- Die elf Teufel
- The Big City
- The Awakening
- Yellow Pass
- The Noose
- A Blonde for a Night
- The Devil in the Heart
- Kukla s millionami
- Say It with Sables
- Tenderloin
- Don Diego i Pelageya
- Romance of the Underworld
- The Masks of the Devil
- The Road to Ruin
- Sweeney Todd
- The Legion of the Condemned
- Chushingura: The Truth
- Dressed to Kill
- The White Eagle
- Red Hair
- Walking Back
- Samurai Town Story Part I
- The Night Flyer
- The Olympic Games, Amsterdam 1928
- Menschen untereinander
- 13 Washington Square
- The Terror
- Burning Daylight
- Arabiantics
- Beau Sabreur
- The Shopworn Angel
- The Michigan Kid
- Schneeschuhbanditen
- The Spieler
- The IX Olympiad in Amsterdam
- Abie's Irish Rose
- Sharps and Flats
- Kruzheva
- Kurama Tengu
- Blue Bottles
- Le tourbillon de Paris
- Fight for the Matterhorn
- Burning of the Red Lotus Monastery
- Show Girl
- Simba: The King of the Beasts
- Won in the Clouds
- Tarzan the Mighty
- The Adorable Cheat
- Arizona Days
- Looping the Loop
- The Cop
- Gow the Head Hunter
- Carry on, Sergeant!
- Dreams of Youth
- Stand and Deliver
- The Lady of the Lake
- Thunder Riders
- Annapolis
- Captain Swagger
- Ladies of the Mob
- The Whip Woman
- Fashion News
- Synd
- Eskimotive
- Dawn
- The Mysterious Airman
- Nuori luotsi
- A Knight in London
- Stories in Song
- Filmens helte
- The Adventurer
- The Queen's Messenger
- La grande passion
- Angst - Die schwache Stunde einer Frau
- Tracy the Outlaw
- Majestät schneidet Bubiköpfe
- The Air Mail Pilot
- The Count of Ten
- Tukkijoella
- The Tonic
- The Flight Commander
- Day-Dreams
- Cocktails
- Guns of Loos
- Das Mädchen mit den fünf Nullen
- The Birth of White Australia
- The Doctors' Women
- Hôrô zanmai
- Gilan qizi
- Further Adventures of a Flag Officer
- The Phantom Flyer
- Kongen af Pelikanien
- Guardians of the Wild
- Gustaf Wasa, Part Two
- The Butter and Egg Man
- Honeymoon Abroad
- Emerald of the East
- Finders Keepers
- Abe Lyman and His Orchestra
- Adventurous Youth
- Kazakebi
- Flying Romeos
- Smith's Restaurant
- Le film du poilu
- The Blue Peter
- Burning Bridges
- Poppies of Flanders
- Der Unüberwindliche
- The King's Highway
- Smashing Through
- Love's Option
- Der Ring der Bajadere
- Hot Water and Vegetabuel
- All for Nothing
- Confetti
- Meg
- Wait and See
- The Torture Cage
- Svarte Rudolf
- Land of Hope and Glory
- Two Little Drummer Boys
- The Patriot
- Shadows!
- The Cohens and the Kellys in Paris
- A.-B. gifta bort baron Olson
- All Balled Up
- Lumisten metsien mies
- Wild Blood
- Paradise
- The Glad Eye
- The Marriage Business
- Carry On!
- The Hellcat
- Sailors Don't Care
- The Cloud Dodger
- Ådalens poesi
- Troublesome Wives
- The Hound of Silver Creek
- Robert und Bertram
- The Clean-Up Man
- Victory
- A South Sea Bubble
- The Silver Lining
- The Wife's Relations
- The Arcadians
- What Next?
- Pique Dame
- Olympic Trials
- The Building of the New Tyne Bridge
- Mein Freund Harry
- The Four-Footed Ranger
- Ossi hat die Hosen an
- Hattmakarens bal
- Kuningaspäivät Helsingissä toukok. 15-17 p. 1928
- H.M. Norjan kuninkaan Haakon VII vierailu Suomessa
- Abenteuer im Nachtexpreß
- The Victoria Girls
- A Horse Tale
- The Adventurous Soul
- The Crimson Canyon
- Always a Gentleman
- Alex the Great
- Beyond London Lights
- A Gentleman Preferred
- Someone to Love
- Stop That Man!
- Put 'Em Up
- The Gorno Marionettes
- Two Outlaws
- The Price of Fear
- Hoofbeats of Vengeance
- Almost a Gentleman
- All for Geraldine
- Miekan terällä
- An Alpine Romance
- The Ambuscade
- And Morning Came
- Any Old Count
- All Washed Up
- J.H. Squires' Celeste Octet
- An Unexpected Hero
- All Alike
- After the Squall
- Smith's Farm Days
- Adoration
- Amazing Lovers
- Krytyi Furgon
- Silken Threads
- Sexton Blake, Gambler
- The Mystery of the Silent Death
- Blake the Lawbreaker
- Kopf kalt: Füße warm
- Jungborn der Menschheit
- An Eastern Market
- Bhutan
- The Rising Generation
- Mr. Bernhard Baron
- Home Life
- Khyber Pass; Kashmir; Agra
- Cricket at Birmingham
- A Cat And Dog Life
The Best Movies in 1928
The Circus
Directed by Charles Chaplin, "The Circus" stands out for its unique blend of humor and heart. The film introduces viewers to The Tramp, an iconic character who stumbles upon a circus and, subsequently, the girl of his dreams. Beyond its comedic elements, the film touches on themes of love and perseverance, making it a standout project in Chaplin's illustrious career. Its balance of comedy, family-oriented themes, and romance ensures that it appeals to a broad audience, showcasing Chaplin's versatility as both a director and performer.
Sadie Thompson
Raoul Walsh's "Sadie Thompson" presents a gripping narrative centered around the character Sadie Thompson, portrayed by Gloria Swanson. Adapted from W. Somerset Maugham's short story "Rain," the movie delves into the complexities of redemption, confrontation, and self-realization. Swanson's character, confronted by a missionary determined to reform her, offers viewers a compelling look at the battle between past indiscretions and the pursuit of personal redemption. The film's strong performances and its dramatic interrogation of morality and transformation further solidify its position in the annals of cinema history.
Steamboat Bill, Jr
Buster Keaton shines in "Steamboat Bill, Jr.," a film renowned for its breathtaking stunts and physical comedy. Playing the son of a steamboat captain on the Mississippi River, Keaton imbues the role with his characteristic deadpan humor and impeccable comedic timing. The movie's most memorable moments come through its innovative use of physical humor and daring stunts, which remain impressive even by today's standards. Its influence on the genre can't be overstated, affirming Keaton's legacy as a pioneering figure in cinematic comedy.
The Passion of Joan of Arc
Carl Theodor Dreyer's "The Passion of Joan of Arc" stands as a seminal work in the genre of historical drama. Centering on the trial of Joan of Arc, the film is celebrated for its stirring emotional depth and the extraordinary performance by Renée Jeanne Falconetti. Often cited as one of the greatest performances in film history, Falconetti's portrayal of the titular character conveys a palpable intensity that resonates deeply with audiences. The film captures the historical drama with a haunting beauty, driven by Dreyer's visionary direction and the film's stark visual style.
The Cameraman
"The Cameraman," featuring Buster Keaton, navigates the intersections of profession, passion, and romance with a delightful lightness. The story follows a man's attempt to win the heart of a woman by becoming a newsreel cameraman, a path that leads to a series of humorous and heartwarming misadventures. Celebrated for its clever visual comedy and Keaton's signature stoic humor, the film not only entertains but also explores themes of aspiration, love, and the lengths one will go to for both. Its enduring appeal can be attributed to its inventive gags and the universal relevance of its narrative.
Film & Industry Highlights of 1928
The Transition to Sound in Films
In the late 1920s, the film industry witnessed a transition with the introduction of sound in films, moving away from the silent cinema era. This period marked the beginning of "talkies," which seamlessly incorporated sound effects, music, and dialogue into movies. This shift wasn't due to any decline in the popularity of silent cinema. Rather, it was a strategic move by the industry to explore new avenues for profitability. Despite the excitement around talkies, the initial offerings were met with skepticism. The sound technology of the time had its limitations, which often resulted in movies that couldn't match the quality of silent films.
The Rise of Newsreels
Another notable development during this era was the emergence of newsreels. Movietone News, which began its run in the United States, played a vital role in bringing newsreels to the forefront of the film industry. These short films, typically shown before the main feature, offered audiences visual updates on current events. This was a step in blending news with entertainment, providing viewers with an innovative way to stay informed about global happenings.
Trade Journals: The Pulse of the Industry
Trade journals such as Motion Picture News emerged as indispensable resources during this transformative period. They offered a wealth of information ranging from objective film reviews and program summaries to comprehensive coverage of the industry's evolution, particularly the adoption of sound. These publications were instrumental in keeping industry professionals and audiences alike informed about the latest developments, ensuring a well-connected and informed film community.
Warner Bros. and the First All-Talking Feature Film
Warner Bros. played a pivotal role in cementing the status of talkies with the release of the first all-talking feature film. This marked a milestone in the film industry, showcasing the potential and viability of sound films. Warner Bros.'s innovation not only contributed to the evolution of cinematic techniques but also demonstrated the industry's capacity for technological advancements and creativity.
Canada's Film Industry and Hollywood's Influence
During the same period, Canada's film industry was experiencing its own transformation, becoming almost an extension of Hollywood. The major Hollywood studios, including Paramount, RKO, 20th Century Fox, MGM, and Warner Bros., implemented a vertically integrated model of ownership. This approach combined both production and distribution, allowing these studios to align themselves with large national theatre chains. Such alliances ensured a steady outlet for their films, reinforcing Hollywood's influence on the global film market.
Vertical Integration in Hollywood
The concept of vertical integration became a defining strategy for Hollywood studios. By controlling both the production and distribution of films, these companies were able to dominate the industry, ensuring widespread access to their productions. This model of operation not only streamlined the process but also enhanced the studios' ability to influence cinematic tastes and trends across the United States and beyond.