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Letter from America (1948)

1948 · Short film · 30 min

  • War
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Synopsis

Produced by Wilding Picture Productions for Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co., “A Letter from America” (1948) is a black-and-white scripted promotional film celebrating Goodyear’s Golden Anniversary. Nonetheless, the real goal of the film was to promote the company's anti-union agenda and American Cold War ideals of capitalism and economic opportunity. Directed by Lewis D. Collins and written by Leo Rosencrans, the story begins with a letter, written by an immigrant worker named Karl to his younger sister living behind the Iron Curtain, that describes the American way of life and the opportunities provided by his employer, Goodyear. Flashbacks show Karl’s arrival in America, his experience with American democracy, and his success at Goodyear. He explains that because many workers are also corporate shareholders, there is no longer a gap between capital and labor. The film features a cast of well known American actors like George N. Neise, Lyle Latell, Jennifer Holt, George Cisar, and Stephen Chase among others and in 1950 received a Freedom Foundation award. Film opens, instrumental version of ‘My Country ‘Tis of Thee’ (0:09). Good Year Research Laboratory Akron, Ohio (0:57). Karl sits in office, types letter on typewriter, narrates what he is writing (1:19). Flashback to night Karl left home for America, little Freda gives Karl a memento (2:46). Ship at sea; Karl on journey to America - looks out window and sees Statue of Liberty (3:08). Karl walks through New York City streets,…

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Details

Running time
30 minutes
Collection
Ephemeral Films

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