1928 Movies
Browse 401 titles in our 1928 Movies Database
- The Circus
- Steamboat Bill, Jr.
- Wings
- The Cameraman
- The Jazz Singer
- The Crowd
- October (Ten Days that Shook the World)
- The Man Who Laughs
- The Broadway Melody
- The Wind
- The Docks of New York
- The Last Command
- The Fall of the House of Usher
- Speedy
- Show People
- Spies
- The Farmer's Wife
- Easy Virtue
- The Patsy
- Champagne
- Lonesome
- Storm Over Asia
- Laugh, Clown, Laugh
- Ghosts Before Breakfast
- Our Dancing Daughters
- West of Zanzibar
- Liberty
- The Wedding March
- Perfect Day
- A Woman of Affairs
- The Student Prince in Old Heidelberg
- The Racket
- The Little Match Girl
- The Starfish
- Two Tars
- The Mysterious Lady
- The Fall of the House of Usher
- The Life and Death of 9413, a Hollywood Extra
- Unaccustomed As We Are
- Beggars of Life
- You're Darn Tootin'
- Zvenigora
- Love
- L'Argent
- From Soup to Nuts
- The Smart Set
- We Faw Down
- The Gallopin' Gaucho
- White Shadows in the South Seas
- Alibi
- Lights of New York
- The New Babylon
- The Divine Lady
- The Horse Ate the Hat
- Habeas Corpus
- The Cardboard Lover
- The Love of Jeanne Ney
- Their Purple Moment
- The Canary Murder Case
- A Girl in Every Port
- The Last Warning
- Early to Bed
- Dom na Trubnoy
- Lilac Time
- The Cossacks
- Flying Elephants
- Seduction
- The Matinee Idol
- Underground
- Hangman's House
- A Lady of Chance
- The Bridge
- Ko-Ko's Earth Control
- The Garden of Eden
- The Viking
- The Divine Woman
- Shooting Stars
- Broadway
- Crossroads
- The Trail of '98
- Hyas and Stenorhynchus, marine crustaceans
- A Daughter of Destiny
- Four Walls
- The Mating Call
- Siren of the Tropics
- The Eleventh Year
- The Gaucho
- The Telltale Heart
- Shiraz
- The Power of the Press
- Daphnia
- Submarine
- That Certain Thing
- The Sad Sack
- Moulin Rouge
- New York Nights
- The Beau Brummels
- While the City Sleeps
- Riley the Cop
- Misdeal
- Rose-Marie
- Feel My Pulse
- Redskin
- Two Timid Souls
- Homecoming
- A Ship Comes In
- Dream of Love
- The Law of the Range
- The Diplomatic Pouch
- Ramona
- The Great Leap
- Verdun: Looking at History
- Monte Cristo
- Bringing Up Father
- Interference
- The Mystery of the Eiffel Tower
- Rails
- Lady of the Pavements
- So This Is Love
- The Woman Disputed
- The Chaser
- The Barker
- Doomsday
- Pan Tadeusz
- The Beggar from Cologne Cathedral
- Impatience
- Sleeping Ember
- The Shield of Honor
- Chips of the Old Block
- Bare Knees
- The Way of the Strong
- The Sideshow
- Limousine Love
- Drums of Love
- The Way of Lost Souls
- The Air Circus
- The Big City
- Die elf Teufel
- Yellow Pass
- The Awakening
- Kukla s millionami
- Say It with Sables
- The Devil in the Heart
- Don Diego i Pelageya
- A Blonde for a Night
- Romance of the Underworld
- Tenderloin
- The Masks of the Devil
- The Legion of the Condemned
- The Road to Ruin
- Sweeney Todd
- The White Eagle
- Sangue mineiro
- Chushingura: The Truth
- Dressed to Kill
- Samurai Town Story Part I
- The Honeymoon
- The Wrecker
- The Olympic Games, Amsterdam 1928
- Menschen untereinander
- The Night Flyer
- The Terror
- Arabiantics
- Burning Daylight
- 13 Washington Square
- The Michigan Kid
- Schneeschuhbanditen
- Beau Sabreur
- The IX Olympiad in Amsterdam
- Kruzheva
- The Shopworn Angel
- Kurama Tengu
- Sharps and Flats
- The Spieler
- Burning of the Red Lotus Monastery
- Blue Bottles
- Abie's Irish Rose
- Fight for the Matterhorn
- Le tourbillon de Paris
- Arizona Days
- Won in the Clouds
- Show Girl
- Tarzan the Mighty
- Looping the Loop
- The Cop
- The Adorable Cheat
- Dreams of Youth
- Gow the Head Hunter
- Synthetic Sin
- Carry on, Sergeant!
- Thunder Riders
- The Ape
- The Whip Woman
- Annapolis
- The Lady of the Lake
- Eskimotive
- Synd
- Dawn
- The Silent House
- Daredevils
- Nuori luotsi
- A Knight in London
- Stories in Song
- The Mysterious Airman
- The Queen's Messenger
- La grande passion
- The Adventurer
- Angst - Die schwache Stunde einer Frau
- Tracy the Outlaw
- Majestät schneidet Bubiköpfe
- Tukkijoella
- The Tonic
- The Count of Ten
- The Air Mail Pilot
- Day-Dreams
- The Flight Commander
- Cocktails
- Guns of Loos
- The Birth of White Australia
- Hôrô zanmai
- Gilan qizi
- Further Adventures of a Flag Officer
- Kongen af Pelikanien
- The Phantom Flyer
- Gustaf Wasa, Part Two
- Abe Lyman and His Orchestra
- Emerald of the East
- Finders Keepers
- Guardians of the Wild
- Adventurous Youth
- Flying Romeos
- Le film du poilu
- The Blue Peter
- Honeymoon Abroad
- Der Unüberwindliche
- Smith's Restaurant
- Burning Bridges
- Smashing Through
- The King's Highway
- The Adventures of Dick Turpin
- Poppies of Flanders
- Love's Option
- Der Ring der Bajadere
- Hot Water and Vegetabuel
- The Torture Cage
- Svarte Rudolf
- Meg
- Wait and See
- The Patriot
- Shadows!
- Land of Hope and Glory
- The Cohens and the Kellys in Paris
- A.-B. gifta bort baron Olson
- Two Little Drummer Boys
- All Balled Up
- Lumisten metsien mies
- Mademoiselle Parley Voo
- Wild Blood
- Paradise
- The Glad Eye
- For Valour
- The Marriage Business
- Carry On!
- The Hellcat
- The Cloud Dodger
- Ådalens poesi
- Troublesome Wives
- The Hound of Silver Creek
- Robert und Bertram
- The Clean-Up Man
- The Rising Generation
- The Bells of St. Mary's
- Victory
- A South Sea Bubble
- The Wife's Relations
- The Arcadians
- Virginia's Husband
- What Next?
- Glorious Youth
- Pique Dame
- Olympic Trials
- Merrie England
- The Building of the New Tyne Bridge
- Mein Freund Harry
- The Four-Footed Ranger
- Ossi hat die Hosen an
- Hattmakarens bal
- Kuningaspäivät Helsingissä toukok. 15-17 p. 1928
- H.M. Norjan kuninkaan Haakon VII vierailu Suomessa
- Abenteuer im Nachtexpreß
- The Victoria Girls
- A Horse Tale
- The Adventurous Soul
- The Crimson Canyon
- Always a Gentleman
- Alex the Great
- Beyond London Lights
- A Gentleman Preferred
- Someone to Love
- Stop That Man!
- Put 'Em Up
- A Reckless Gamble
- The Gorno Marionettes
- Two Outlaws
- The Bride
- The Price of Fear
- Hoofbeats of Vengeance
- Safety First
- All for Nothing
- Human Cargo
- Almost a Gentleman
- All for Geraldine
- Miekan terällä
- An Alpine Romance
- The Ambuscade
- And Morning Came
- Any Old Count
- Peace and Quiet
- Josser, KC
- All Washed Up
- Medevedeff's Balalaika Orchestra
- Gyul i Tolmaz
- Ag and Bert
- Mrs. Mephistopheles
- Canoodling
- Wyn Gladwyn, One Person Two Personalities
- J.H. Squires' Celeste Octet
- Percy Pryde and His Phonofiddle on the Phonofilm
- An Unexpected Hero
- All Alike
- After the Squall
- Charmaine
- A.C. Astor with Sentimental Mac
- The Sugar Step
- Café Kalau
- The Toy Shop
- The Burglar and the Girl
- The Stage Hands
- Smith's Farm Days
- Adoration
- Amazing Lovers
- The Intruder
- Uncensored Bosko Vol. 2
- Percival and Hill
- Ashton and Rawson
- The Raw Recruit
- The 'Flu That Flew
- The Fire Brigade
- Carrie from Lancasheer
- The Barrister
- The Orderly Room
- Silken Threads
- Sexton Blake, Gambler
- The Mystery of the Silent Death
- Blake the Lawbreaker
- Bad Sir Brian Botany
- The King's Breakfast
- In the Dark
- Nursery Chairs
- Knights and Ladies
- The Market Square
- The Tale-Teller Phone
- The Superior Sex
- Joining Up
- A Chinese Moon
- Nap
- Victoria Girls Skipping
- A Fascinating Vamp
- An Intimate Interlude
- Tune Up the Uke
- A Snowman's Romance
- Phototone Reel #15
- The Keys of Heaven
- Phototone Reel #3
- Phototone Reel #8
- Phototone Reel #2
- Phototone Reel #11
- In a Japanese Garden
- Phototone Reel #6
- Phototone Reel #10
- Phototone Reel #7
- Phototone Reel #4
- Phototone Reel #5
- Phototone Reel #9
- Phototone Reel #14
- Phototone Reel #13
- Toddlin' Along
- Phototone Reel #16
- Madeleine
- Zulu Love
- Phototone Reel #12
- Phototone Reel #1
- Kopf kalt: Füße warm
- Jungborn der Menschheit
- An Eastern Market
- Bhutan
- The Rising Generation
- Mr. Bernhard Baron
- Home Life
- Khyber Pass; Kashmir; Agra
- Cricket at Birmingham
The Best Movies in 1928
The Circus
Directed by Charles Chaplin, "The Circus" stands out for its unique blend of humor and heart. The film introduces viewers to The Tramp, an iconic character who stumbles upon a circus and, subsequently, the girl of his dreams. Beyond its comedic elements, the film touches on themes of love and perseverance, making it a standout project in Chaplin's illustrious career. Its balance of comedy, family-oriented themes, and romance ensures that it appeals to a broad audience, showcasing Chaplin's versatility as both a director and performer.
Sadie Thompson
Raoul Walsh's "Sadie Thompson" presents a gripping narrative centered around the character Sadie Thompson, portrayed by Gloria Swanson. Adapted from W. Somerset Maugham's short story "Rain," the movie delves into the complexities of redemption, confrontation, and self-realization. Swanson's character, confronted by a missionary determined to reform her, offers viewers a compelling look at the battle between past indiscretions and the pursuit of personal redemption. The film's strong performances and its dramatic interrogation of morality and transformation further solidify its position in the annals of cinema history.
Steamboat Bill, Jr
Buster Keaton shines in "Steamboat Bill, Jr.," a film renowned for its breathtaking stunts and physical comedy. Playing the son of a steamboat captain on the Mississippi River, Keaton imbues the role with his characteristic deadpan humor and impeccable comedic timing. The movie's most memorable moments come through its innovative use of physical humor and daring stunts, which remain impressive even by today's standards. Its influence on the genre can't be overstated, affirming Keaton's legacy as a pioneering figure in cinematic comedy.
The Passion of Joan of Arc
Carl Theodor Dreyer's "The Passion of Joan of Arc" stands as a seminal work in the genre of historical drama. Centering on the trial of Joan of Arc, the film is celebrated for its stirring emotional depth and the extraordinary performance by Renée Jeanne Falconetti. Often cited as one of the greatest performances in film history, Falconetti's portrayal of the titular character conveys a palpable intensity that resonates deeply with audiences. The film captures the historical drama with a haunting beauty, driven by Dreyer's visionary direction and the film's stark visual style.
The Cameraman
"The Cameraman," featuring Buster Keaton, navigates the intersections of profession, passion, and romance with a delightful lightness. The story follows a man's attempt to win the heart of a woman by becoming a newsreel cameraman, a path that leads to a series of humorous and heartwarming misadventures. Celebrated for its clever visual comedy and Keaton's signature stoic humor, the film not only entertains but also explores themes of aspiration, love, and the lengths one will go to for both. Its enduring appeal can be attributed to its inventive gags and the universal relevance of its narrative.
Film & Industry Highlights of 1928
The Transition to Sound in Films
In the late 1920s, the film industry witnessed a transition with the introduction of sound in films, moving away from the silent cinema era. This period marked the beginning of "talkies," which seamlessly incorporated sound effects, music, and dialogue into movies. This shift wasn't due to any decline in the popularity of silent cinema. Rather, it was a strategic move by the industry to explore new avenues for profitability. Despite the excitement around talkies, the initial offerings were met with skepticism. The sound technology of the time had its limitations, which often resulted in movies that couldn't match the quality of silent films.
The Rise of Newsreels
Another notable development during this era was the emergence of newsreels. Movietone News, which began its run in the United States, played a vital role in bringing newsreels to the forefront of the film industry. These short films, typically shown before the main feature, offered audiences visual updates on current events. This was a step in blending news with entertainment, providing viewers with an innovative way to stay informed about global happenings.
Trade Journals: The Pulse of the Industry
Trade journals such as Motion Picture News emerged as indispensable resources during this transformative period. They offered a wealth of information ranging from objective film reviews and program summaries to comprehensive coverage of the industry's evolution, particularly the adoption of sound. These publications were instrumental in keeping industry professionals and audiences alike informed about the latest developments, ensuring a well-connected and informed film community.
Warner Bros. and the First All-Talking Feature Film
Warner Bros. played a pivotal role in cementing the status of talkies with the release of the first all-talking feature film. This marked a milestone in the film industry, showcasing the potential and viability of sound films. Warner Bros.'s innovation not only contributed to the evolution of cinematic techniques but also demonstrated the industry's capacity for technological advancements and creativity.
Canada's Film Industry and Hollywood's Influence
During the same period, Canada's film industry was experiencing its own transformation, becoming almost an extension of Hollywood. The major Hollywood studios, including Paramount, RKO, 20th Century Fox, MGM, and Warner Bros., implemented a vertically integrated model of ownership. This approach combined both production and distribution, allowing these studios to align themselves with large national theatre chains. Such alliances ensured a steady outlet for their films, reinforcing Hollywood's influence on the global film market.
Vertical Integration in Hollywood
The concept of vertical integration became a defining strategy for Hollywood studios. By controlling both the production and distribution of films, these companies were able to dominate the industry, ensuring widespread access to their productions. This model of operation not only streamlined the process but also enhanced the studios' ability to influence cinematic tastes and trends across the United States and beyond.