Zeus

Life Begins At Eight-Thirty (1942)

• Director
  • Irving Pichel
• Writers
  • Nunnally Johnson(screenwriter)
  • Emlyn Williams(play)
• Stars
  • Monty Woolley
  • Ida Lupino
  • Cornel Wilde

  In this drama, a has-been stage thespian finds that his alcoholism is ruining his life. When his daughter, a cripple, attempts to show her concern, he rebuffs her with his cruel, razor sharp witticism. His drinking and cynicism continue to increase, but, through it all, his daughter stands steadfastly beside him until her heart is stolen away by a handsome composer. He begins helping her to convince the theatrical community that her father is still a talented actor. Meanwhile, the father, thinking the composer will take his daughter away, remains suspicious of the young man's motives. Finally, after working in a series of odd jobs, the old man lands the lead in King Lear where he is a smash. He then renews a relationship with a wealthy old girlfriend. Meanwhile, the young couple also begin their relationship in earnest.