Employee Entrance: A Glimpse into the Intriguing World of Pre-Code Hollywood Glamour and Social Commentary

“Employee Entrance” (1933) is a captivating pre-Code film, a treasure trove of both cinematic spectacle and insightful social commentary. Directed by Roy Del Ruth and starring Warren William as Kurt Anderson and Loretta Young as Madeline Walters, the film plunges viewers into the opulent world of a department store during the Great Depression. It offers a glimpse behind the glamorous facade to reveal the struggles and aspirations of those who work within its walls.

The film unfolds with Kurt Anderson, a charismatic and ambitious young executive, ascending the ranks at the prestigious McTavish’s department store. Driven by his desire for success and power, he manipulates situations and people along the way, including Madeline Walters, a beautiful stenographer who finds herself entangled in Kurt’s web of ambition. Their relationship evolves amidst the bustling world of high fashion, lavish displays, and cutthroat competition.

Themes Explored: “Employee Entrance” explores several compelling themes that resonate even today. Class conflict emerges as a central motif, highlighting the stark disparities between the privileged executives and the working-class employees who toil tirelessly to maintain the store’s opulent image. The film also delves into the complexities of ambition, examining Kurt Anderson’s relentless pursuit of power and the ethical dilemmas he faces along the way.

Theme	Description
Class Conflict	The film starkly contrasts the luxurious lives of the executives with the struggles of the store’s employees, who face low wages, long hours, and limited opportunities for advancement.
Ambition & Power	Kurt Anderson’s relentless pursuit of success leads him to make morally questionable choices, blurring the line between ambition and ruthlessness.
Gender Roles	Madeline Walters navigates a world dominated by men, facing challenges and prejudices as she strives to find her place within the department store hierarchy.
The Illusion of Glamour	“Employee Entrance” peels back the veneer of luxury associated with department stores, revealing the behind-the-scenes realities of retail during the Depression era.

Production Highlights:

“Employee Entrance” stands out for its impressive production values. Cinematographer Arthur C. Miller masterfully captured the opulent interiors of McTavish’s department store, contrasting them with the gritty realism of the surrounding streets. The film’s costume design further enhanced the visual spectacle, showcasing both the elegant attire of the wealthy executives and the more practical clothing worn by the working-class employees.

Performances: Warren William delivered a captivating performance as Kurt Anderson, portraying his ambition and ruthlessness with chilling precision. Loretta Young shone brightly as Madeline Walters, conveying her vulnerability and strength as she navigated the treacherous waters of department store politics.

Beyond its entertainment value, “Employee Entrance” offers viewers a glimpse into the social and economic realities of the Depression era. The film’s pre-Code status allowed it to explore themes and portray characters in ways that were considered taboo by later Hollywood standards.

Legacy: While largely forgotten today, “Employee Entrance” remains a valuable piece of cinematic history. Its exploration of class conflict, ambition, and the illusion of glamour continues to resonate with audiences who appreciate thought-provoking dramas set against the backdrop of historical change. It serves as a reminder that even amidst the glittering façade of wealth and success, there often lie deeper truths about human nature and societal inequities waiting to be uncovered.

For cinephiles seeking a glimpse into the fascinating world of pre-Code cinema and those intrigued by the complexities of human ambition and social dynamics, “Employee Entrance” is a film worth rediscovering. It offers a potent blend of entertainment, social commentary, and historical insight, making it a captivating viewing experience for anyone interested in exploring the cinematic landscape of the 1930s.