description Twentieth Century Overview
Twentieth Century is a 1934 comedy film set primarily aboard the 20th Century Limited train traveling between Chicago and New York City. Adapted from a 1932 Broadway play by Ben Hecht and Charles MacArthur, it features John Barrymore and Carole Lombard. The production incorporated elements from an earlier unproduced play about Broadway theater.
Sources: en.wikipedia.org
info Twentieth Century Specifications
| Country | United States |
| Year | 1934 |
help Twentieth Century FAQ
Why is Twentieth Century set on the 20th Century Limited train?
The train gives the 1934 film a tight, fast-moving stage for Oscar Jaffe and Lily Garland to fight, scheme, and perform. The real 20th Century Limited ran between Chicago and New York City, which matches the movie's central route.
Is Twentieth Century based on a play?
Yes. It was adapted from the 1932 Broadway play by Ben Hecht and Charles MacArthur, which itself drew on the world of theatrical producers and star actresses.
What makes John Barrymore and Carole Lombard important to Twentieth Century?
John Barrymore plays the theatrical impresario Oscar Jaffe, while Carole Lombard plays Lily Garland, the actress he tries to win back. Their exaggerated timing helped define the film's screwball comedy energy.
Is Twentieth Century considered an early screwball comedy?
Yes. Released in 1934 and directed by Howard Hawks, it is often treated as one of the films that helped establish the screwball comedy style before later Hawks comedies like Bringing Up Baby.
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