It's a Big Job 1947
Step back into post-war Los Angeles with the 1947 documentary *It's a Big Job*, a fascinating short film produced by Belmont Pictures Inc. for the Los Angeles Transit Lines.
Director: J. Richard Westen
Frequently Asked Questions
What is It's a Big Job (1947) about?
This 22-minute documentary from 1947 was produced to recruit drivers, motormen, and conductors for Los Angeles Transit Lines. It offers a behind-the-scenes look at the city's public transit system in the immediate post-WWII era, highlighting the individuals who kept the wheels turning during a time of growth and transformation.
Who directed It's a Big Job?
The film was directed by J. Richard Westen, a filmmaker who contributed to mid-century industrial and documentary shorts.
Who stars in It's a Big Job?
Since this was a documentary recruitment film, it primarily features real-life transit workers and crew members rather than professional actors.
Is It's a Big Job (1947) worth watching?
While *It's a Big Job* isn't a blockbuster, it's a fascinating slice of mid-century American history and public transit lore. As a vintage documentary with historical insight, it's best enjoyed by enthusiasts of classic films or anyone interested in L.A.'s urban development—and it's short enough to fit into anyone's schedule.
How long is It's a Big Job?
The film runs for 22 minutes.
About It's a Big Job (1947) — A Classic Transit Documentary from Post-War Los Angeles
Step back into post-war Los Angeles with the 1947 documentary *It's a Big Job*, a fascinating short film produced by Belmont Pictures Inc. for the Los Angeles Transit Lines. This 22-minute black-and-white documentary captures the bustling energy of a city rebuilding after World War II, spotlighting the essential role of drivers, conductors, and motormen in keeping the city moving. With its candid look behind the scenes of mid-century public transit, the film offers a snapshot of daily life in the late 1940s, blending practical recruitment with a nostalgic glimpse into a bygone era of urban mobility. The atmosphere is one of quiet determination, as everyday heroes step up to rebuild not just roads and rails, but the spirit of a community.
Whether you're a film buff fascinated by vintage documentaries or simply curious about Los Angeles' transportation history, *It's a Big Job* provides a unique window into a pivotal moment. Directed by J. Richard Westen, this concise yet compelling short is a time capsule of mid-century America, where public service felt both urgent and necessary. Fans of classic cinema and urban history alike will appreciate its unfiltered portrayal of the people who powered the city before the rise of cars and highways dominated the conversation.