Cradle Will Rock

“Cradle Will Rock” is a 1999 historical drama film directed by Tim Robbins. Set in the 1930s during the Great Depression, the film explores the impact of art and politics on society. It takes its name from the famous painting by Diego Rivera, “Man at the Crossroads,” which was controversially destroyed by the Rockefellers after Rivera included an image of Lenin in it.

The story revolves around several interconnected characters, including Diego Rivera (Rubén Blades), his wife Frida Kahlo (Selma Hayek), Orson Welles (Angus Macfadyen), Nelson Rockefeller (John Cusack), and several others. The film weaves together various plotlines that center on the Federal Theatre Project (FTP), a government-sponsored program that employed artists and performers during the Depression.

The main focus is on the production of the play “The Cradle Will Rock,” written by Marc Blitzstein (Hank Azaria). The play is a bold and politically charged musical about the struggles of the working class against corporate greed and political corruption. However, due to its controversial themes, the FTP is ordered to shut it down on the night of its premiere.

In response, Orson Welles and other artists decide to stage the play independently in a nearby theater, defying the government’s orders and the threats of arrest. The film follows their journey to find a venue and their determination to stand up for artistic freedom and free speech.

“Cradle Will Rock” is not only a historical drama but also a powerful exploration of the power of art to challenge the status quo and inspire change. It delves into the lives of artists who fearlessly use their talents to make a difference in society and the struggles they face against censorship and repression.

The film boasts a stellar ensemble cast, with standout performances from Hank Azaria as the passionate Marc Blitzstein, John Cusack as the conflicted Nelson Rockefeller, and Angus Macfadyen as the charismatic Orson Welles. The cinematography and art direction capture the vibrant atmosphere of 1930s New York City, and the soundtrack features music from the original play.

“Cradle Will Rock” is a thought-provoking and compelling film that highlights the importance of artistic expression, freedom of speech, and the impact of political and social upheavals on artists and society. It serves as a reminder of the enduring power of art to challenge the establishment and inspire change in times of adversity.