Introduction: The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1939)

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1939 is often cited as the "golden year" of Hollywood film making. This reputation is the result of a number of high end, now classic films. Movies like The Wizard of Oz, The Women, Gone With The Wind, and, arguably, William Dieterle's The Hunchback of Notre Dame.

Hunchback was pitched as a remake of the 1923 silent film. While there are some similarities, this version differs wildly from both that film, and the original novel.

The movie was Irish actress Maureen O'Hara's first American film, and brought her to mainstream fame.

It was one of RKO studios' most expensive films along with Gunga Din, and was a big success at the box office. The large budget went into the enormous 200 foot replica of Notre Dame.

The movie was released at the tail end of 1939 and was met with positive reception. Critics praised the film's visuals as well as Charles Laughton's performance, but they criticized the violence, finding it unsuitable for families. It's reception has become more positive over the years. As time has gone on, the movie has been reevaluated, like The Wizard of Oz, as a classic.

Next: The Plot
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