Song of Revolt Poster

Song of Revolt 1937

★ 6.01 votes11 min📅 1937-05-29

"Strasbourg - 1792. Prussian armies rage outside France's borders, famine and civil strife within. Urged by the Mayor, a young officer named Rouget de Lisle works on a marching song to rally the King's weary troops."

Song of Revolt (1937) is a compelling MGM short film that dramatizes the creation of France's iconic national anthem during one of history's most turbulent periods.

Director: Roy Rowland

Cast

Leon Ames
Leon Ames
Claude Joseph Rouget de Lisle
Frank Austin
Frank Austin
Listener at Baron's (uncredited)
Barbara Bedford
Barbara Bedford
Peasant Woman (uncredited)
Harry Cording
Harry Cording
Peasant Rebel Leader (uncredited)
Karl Hackett
Karl Hackett
Corporal Defending de Lisle (uncredited)
Mary Howard
Mary Howard
Pianist (uncredited)
Edward Keane
Edward Keane
Mayor (uncredited)
Mitchell Lewis
Mitchell Lewis
Jailer (uncredited)
Claire McDowell
Claire McDowell
Artistocratic Dowager (uncredited)
Louis Mercier
French Peasant (uncredited)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Song of Revolt (1937) about?

Set during the French Revolution in 1792, the film follows young officer Rouget de Lisle as he composes the marching song that becomes France's national anthem. It portrays the urgency of wartime France and how patriotic music emerged from the turmoil of revolution.

Who directed Song of Revolt?

Roy Rowland directed this historical short film, bringing his experience in early cinema to tell the story of France's national anthem's creation.

Who stars in Song of Revolt?

The film features Leon Ames, Frank Austin, Barbara Bedford, Harry Cording, Karl Hackett, and Mary Howard in key roles depicting revolutionary-era France.

Is Song of Revolt (1937) worth watching?

At just 11 minutes, this unrated historical drama offers a concise, engaging look at how 'La Marseillaise' was born. While brief, it provides meaningful historical context and is worth watching for history buffs or those curious about the anthem's origins.

How long is Song of Revolt?

The film runs for 11 minutes, making it a brief but focused historical drama.

Song of Revolt (1937): Birth of La Marseillaise — Full Movie Details

Song of Revolt (1937) is a compelling MGM short film that dramatizes the creation of France's iconic national anthem during one of history's most turbulent periods. Directed by Roy Rowland, this 11-minute historical drama brings to life the moment when Rouget de Lisle composed 'La Marseillaise' to inspire King Louis XVI's demoralized troops. Set against the backdrop of the French Revolution, the film captures the urgency and patriotism of 1792 as Prussian forces threaten France's borders.

The production features strong performances from Leon Ames, Frank Austin, Barbara Bedford, and Harry Cording, who help recreate this pivotal moment in French history. With its blend of drama and historical storytelling, Song of Revolt offers a concise yet powerful glimpse into how music became a weapon of national pride. The film's brief runtime makes it accessible for history enthusiasts seeking a quick but meaningful look at revolutionary France.

This Tabloid Musical short combines educational value with entertainment, making it a fascinating piece for those interested in how cultural symbols are born from crisis. The intimate scale allows viewers to connect personally with the birth of an anthem that would echo through centuries.