Edison, the Man (1940)

Edison, the Man Poster

In flashback, fifty years after inventing the light bulb, an 82-year-old Edison tells his story starting at age twenty-two with his arrival in New York. He's on his way with the invention of an early form of the stock market ticker.

Film Overview
"Edison, the Man" is an American biographical film released in 1940. It is a sequel to the effective film "Young Tom Edison" and was directed by Clarence Brown. The movie represents the life of creator Thomas Alva Edison. The leading role of Thomas Edison is expertly played by Spencer Tracy, together with Rita Johnson, Lynne Overman, Gene Lockhart, and Henry Travers in supporting functions. This film was favored, with critics praising its motivating representation of determination and development.

Plot summary
"Edison, the Man" begins with a celebratory dinner in honor of Thomas Edison's life, where he gets acknowledgment for his remarkable developments. However, the film rapidly transitions into a take a look at his past, showing how his journey started. Filled with decision and a thirst to develop, Edison moves from his modest home to New York where he has a hard time however ultimately protects a job at a telegraph business.

In time, his hard work, devotion, and originality cause the development of a stock ticker, bringing him praise and a windfall that enables him to develop his own lab in Menlo Park. It is here that he makes his most substantial developments, including the phonograph, the modern-day electrical light bulb, and an enhanced variation of the telephone.

Historic Depictions
"Edison, the Man" portrays numerous episodes from Edison's life, including his steadfast mission to create the electrical light bulb, dealing with various obstacles and discouragements along the method. The version of the telephone that he creates brings him into dispute with Western Union, driving a key point of stress in the film. It likewise illustrates his competition with the British scientist Sir William Preece, as both of them vie to lay claim on their creations.

Acknowledgment and Merits
Although "Edison, the Man" wasn't chosen for any Oscars, Spencer Tracy's performance was applauded by critics and audience alike. His nuanced portrayal of Edison's genius was well stabilized with the character's personalized qualities - making the historic figure both exceptional and relatable. Some critics, nevertheless, pointed out that the movie tends to oversimplify Edison's life and accomplishments, developing a somewhat cliché image of the "only innovator". But irrespective of these liberties with the fact, the movie was lauded for its capability to influence and entertain audiences.

Conclusion
In amount, "Edison the Man" is an inspiring biographical movie that brings to life the journey and victories of Thomas Alva Edison, one of history's greatest innovators. The film, through Spencer Tracy's excellent performance, shines a spotlight on the admirable character qualities of determination, decision, originality, and an agitated spirit, that drove Edison's advanced inventions. Although it might not be entirely precise in its historic depiction, the film was a box office success, which acts as a testimony to the deep-running fascination of audiences with the lives of fantastic males and females.

Top Cast

  • Spencer Tracy (small)
    Spencer Tracy
    Thomas A. Edison
  • Charles Coburn (small)
    Charles Coburn
    General Powell
  • Lynne Overman (small)
    Lynne Overman
    Bunt Cavatt
  • Rita Johnson (small)
    Rita Johnson
    Mary Stilwell
  • Gene Lockhart (small)
    Gene Lockhart
    Mr. Taggart
  • Henry Travers (small)
    Henry Travers
    Ben Els
  • Felix Bressart (small)
    Felix Bressart
    Michael Simon
  • Peter Godfrey (small)
    Peter Godfrey
    Ashton
  • Guy D'Ennery (small)
    Guy D'Ennery
    Lundstrom
  • Byron Foulger (small)
    Byron Foulger
    Edwin Hall
  • Milton Parsons (small)
    Milton Parsons
    'Acid' Graham