Ragtime

Ragtime is a masterfully crafted period drama film, directed and produced by Miloš Forman, released in 1981. Based on E.L. Doctorow's seminal 1975 novel of the same name, the film features a star-studded ensemble cast, including James Cagney, Elizabeth McGovern, and Howard E. Rollins Jr. This movie played a significant role in Hollywood in the early 1980s due to its compelling storyline, opulent production design, and captivating performances.

Ragtime starts in New York in 1906, cleverly intertwining fictional narratives with real-life events and historical figures, marking a cinematic exploration of the tensions, prejudices, and cultural shifts in society in the early 20th century. These diverse storylines provide glimpses into the diverse societal strata of the time, offering a compelling snapshot into a period of profound change and tumult in American history.

James Cagney, in his final film appearance, delivers a riveting performance as Rhinelander Waldo, a powerful and somewhat eccentric New York police commissioner. His depiction paints a compelling portrait of a bygone era's law enforcement and their approach to the socio-economic challenges of the time.

Elizabeth McGovern plays Evelyn Nesbit, a real-life figure who was a prominent actress, model, and chorus girl. Caught in an infamous murder case involving her husband and ex-lover, McGovern's Nesbit becomes a primary figure in a high-profile scandal that captivates the country, exemplifying the media's burgeoning influence on public sentiment at the turn of the century.

Howard E. Rollins Jr., in a breakthrough role, steals the show as Coalhouse Walker Jr., a talented African-American pianist. Coalhouse's story, one of dignity and resolution in an era beset by unrepentant racism and classism, serves as the heart of the narrative. His journey, which details his struggle for justice and civil rights, delivers a potent commentary on racial tension and systemic prejudice in the United States, a theme that remains perennially relevant.

Complementing these leads are a stellar supporting cast, which includes Mary Steenburgen, Brad Dourif, Mandy Patinkin, and Jeffrey DeMunn, among others. The ensemble's excellent performances deliver a richly textured world, with characters peripheral and central interacting seamlessly to evoke the complexities of society in early 20th century America.

The movie's title, Ragtime, points towards the emergence of ragtime music during this period, which is prominently featured in the film's score, composed by the gifted Randy Newman. The soundtrack stands as an impressive contribution to the film, enhancing the atmosphere and helping to capture the mood, flavor, and rhythm of the time. The film's title speaks volumes about the cultural shifts of the era, particularly in how new art forms like ragtime music began to challenge traditional norms and hierarchies.

Ragtime also excels in its visual storytelling, featuring gorgeous cinematography by Miroslav Ondříček, which brings to life the film's Gilded Age setting, with period-accurate costumes, set designs, and locations. The film displays a meticulous dedication to historical accuracy and authenticity, which adds to the impressive depth and scope of this cinematic undertaking.

The film is thematically rich, exploring topics like racism, class conflict, the changing roles and status of women, the influence of media, and the clash of tradition, all against the backdrop of a nation experiencing major shifts in its cultural, social, and political fabric.

Director Miloš Forman, well known for his ability to delve into emotional and societal complexities, uses his directorial prowess to keep these stories intertwined yet distinctly memorable. His judicious blend of character drama and larger sociopolitical commentary results in a film that remains gripping from start to finish.

Ragtime, through its splendid blend of real and fictional narratives, gripping performances, evocative period setting, and musically influential score, successfully delves into the fabric of early 20th century America. It artfully weaves a tapestry of a nation on the brink of change, making it not just an entertaining cinematic experience, but also a significant contribution to cinema's historical storytelling tradition.