Ragtime (1981) weaves a complex narrative inspired by E.L. Doctorow's celebrated novel, focusing on four distinct New York families at the dawn of the 20th century. Each family represents a different facet of American society during this transformative era, shedding light on the challenges and pitfalls of pursuing the American Dream. The story begins with Tateh, a struggling immigrant artist portrayed by Mandy Patinkin, who embarks on a journey to seek fortune in Hollywood. Along the way, he crosses paths with Evelyn Nesbit, played by Elizabeth McGovern, a real-life showgirl entangled in the notorious Thaw-White murder case. This case involves her unstable millionaire husband, Harry K. Thaw (Robert Joy), who murders her lover, the renowned architect Stanford White (Norman Mailer). Another plotline centers on the unraveling of an affluent American family led by Mary Steenburgen (Mother) and James Olson (Father). Their idyllic life is disrupted when Coalhouse Walker, a talented black ragtime pianist played by Howard E. Rollins, begins a relationship with a pregnant young woman residing in their home (Debbie Allen). Walker, a man of dignity, is driven to fury by the racial harassment he endures. One of the film's standout moments features the legendary James Cagney, who, at 81, portrays the spirited Police Commissioner Waldo.
Ragtime (1981)
1981 · Movie · 155 min. · United States
Credits
Direction Milos Forman
Cast Howard E. Rollins Jr. · Moses Gunn · James Cagney · Brad Dourif · Elizabeth McGovern · Kenneth McMillan · Pat O'Brien · Donald O´Connor · James Olson · Mandy Patinkin · Mary Steenburgen · Debbie Allen · Jeffrey DeMunn · Robert Joy · Norman Mailer · Jeff Daniels · Fran Drescher · Frankie Faison · Samuel L. Jackson · Michael Jeter
Soundtrack Randy Newman
Screenplay Michael Weller · E. L. Doctorow
Cinematography Miroslav Ondricek
Technical sheet
Title Ragtime
Original title Ragtime
Year 1981
Type Movie
Length 155 min.
Country United States
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