An American Romance (1944)

VHS CASE/SIDE

Length of film:  151 Minutes (Re-edited: 121 Minutes)

Rated: Passed

Genre: Drama

Director: King Vidor

Starring: Brain Donlevy, Ann Richards, Walter Abel, John Qualen, Stephen McNally

IMDB Rank: 6.7 /10

Part 1 Time:  N/A Minutes (Re-edited: 75 Minutes)

Part 2 Time:  N/A Minutes (Re-edited: 46 Minutes)

Where does the first part end? Steve Dangos (Brian Donlevy) becomes an American citizen and pledges his allegiance to the United States.

Final line of dialogue on the first part: “Indivisible, with liberty and justice for all!” Steve Dangos and a group of future American citizens recite the pledge of allegiance.

First line of dialogue on the second part: Steve Dangos is surprised to see Howard Clinton (Walter Abel) as he finishes rebuilding his car. “Oh, Mr. Clinton, hello,” states Steve Dangos.

How jarring is it when the first part ends? Somewhat, Steve and his wife Anna (Ann Richards) have received word that their eldest son George (Bob Lowell) has been killed in action (while serving overseas). Steve follows through on his promise to George by becoming a full-fledged American citizen. Having lost his eldest son, will Steve continue to aspire to the American dream?

Which part is better? The current re-edited version of the film cuts over 30 minutes of runtime, resulting in many awkward scene transitions. Part two is much less choppy and more captivating as Steve and Howard enter into the automobile industry.

Academy Awards: None