American Madness 1932
"The Great American Picture of Today!"
Frank Capra's *American Madness (1932)* dives into the frenzied fragility of trust during the Great Depression, where a seemingly ordinary day spirals into chaos for a New York bank president.
Director: Frank Capra
Cast
Walter Huston
Thomas Dickson
Pat O'Brien
Matt Brown
Kay Johnson
Phyllis Dickson
Constance Cummings
Helen
Gavin Gordon
Cyril Cluett
Arthur Hoyt
Ives
Robert Emmett O'Connor
Police Inspector
Edwin Maxwell
Clark (uncredited)
Sterling Holloway
Oscar (uncredited)
Robert Ellis
Dude Finlay (uncredited)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is American Madness (1932) about?
*American Madness* follows bank president Thomas Dickson as his life unravels in a single chaotic day. Accused of a robbery he didn't commit, his protégé's arrest triggers a catastrophic bank run. To make matters worse, whispers of infidelity swirl around Dickson's marriage, adding personal stakes to his fight for professional survival.
Who directed American Madness?
The film was directed by Frank Capra, a visionary behind classics like *It Happened One Night* and *Mr. Smith Goes to Washington*.
Who stars in American Madness?
The film features Walter Huston as the bank president, alongside Pat O'Brien, Kay Johnson, Constance Cummings, and Gavin Gordon in key roles.
Is American Madness (1932) worth watching?
While unrated on IMDb, *American Madness* is a gripping pre-Code drama that offers a fascinating glimpse into 1930s financial panic and moral dilemmas. Its blend of crime and social commentary makes it a rewarding watch for classic film enthusiasts.
How long is American Madness?
The runtime of *American Madness* is 76 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About American Madness (1932) — Frank Capra's gripping Depression-era drama of trust and turmoil
Frank Capra's *American Madness (1932)* dives into the frenzied fragility of trust during the Great Depression, where a seemingly ordinary day spirals into chaos for a New York bank president. When rumors of a robbery spark a panicked bank run, the institution's leader, Thomas Dickson, must navigate a web of personal betrayal and professional ruin—all while defending his bank's integrity. Walter Huston delivers a masterful performance as Dickson, whose crisis exposes how quickly society's faith can crumble under pressure. This gripping drama blends crime and social commentary, painting a vivid portrait of 1930s America's economic anxieties. With its taut pacing and moral complexities, *American Madness* remains a compelling watch for fans of classic cinema and historical storytelling.
Set against the backdrop of financial instability, the film explores themes of redemption and resilience, fueled by Capra's signature humanism. The stellar cast, including Pat O'Brien and Kay Johnson, brings depth to the unfolding drama, making *American Madness (1932)* a standout in early sound-era filmmaking. Its raw energy and timeless questions about trust and authority ensure its place among must-see pre-Code dramas.
