Question

The movies 42nd Street (1933) and Gold Diggers of 1933 (1933) are often described as "escapist" entertainment. Yet the critic Andrew Bergman has pointed out that audiences cannot "escape" into or with stories and characters they cannot realistically relate to. How does the tension between "escapism" and authentic audience experience play out most prominently in these two films, in your opinion?

Answer 1

The tension in '42nd Street' and 'Gold Diggers of 1933' comes from the films being escapist yet relatable, combining lavish musical escapades with themes of economic struggle that resonated with audiences during the Great Depression.

Step-by-step explanation:

The tension between "escapism" and an authentic audience experience in '42nd Street' and 'Gold Diggers of 1933' is intriguing because these films presented fantastical and lavish musical numbers that served as a respite from the harsh realities of the Great Depression. However, these films also resonated with audiences through their underlying themes that reflected the economic struggles of the time, such as the portrayal of characters striving to make ends meet and the omnipresent desire for prosperity and success. By blending these elements, the films provided an escape while maintaining a connection to the viewers' real-life experiences, thereby fulfilling the need for both entertainment and relatability.