The Light Ahead
Fishke der Krumer
Synopsis
The Light Ahead is possibly the greatest of Edgar G. Ulmer’s shtetl films. Here, the director counterpoints his pastoral Green Fields to criticize the poverty and superstition that oppress a pair of star-crossed lovers. Made on the eve of World War II, The Light Ahead is at once romantic, expressionist, and painfully conscious of the danger about to engulf European Jews. Impoverished and disabled lovers Fishke and Hodel dream of life in the big city of Odessa, free from the poverty and stifling old-world prejudices of the shtetl. The benevolent and enlightened bookseller Mendele helps them, turning small-town superstitions to their advantage. Based on Mendele Mokher Seforim's story of love frustrated by small-town ignorance, this luminous allegory of escape marries Edgar Ulmer's masterful direction with superb acting by members of New York's Artef and Yiddish Art Theaters.
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Release History & Theatrical Window
June 1, 1939
Wide Cinema Exhibition
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Edgar G. Ulmer
- Screenplay & Story
- Edgar G. Ulmer, Shirley Ulmer
- Original Title
- Fishke der Krumer
- Country of Origin
- United States of America
- Spoken Languages
- Yiddish
- Runtime
- 1h 34m
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Edgar G. Ulmer
Edgar G. Ulmer, Shirley Ulmer
Edward Hyland
Peter E. Kassler
Department Leadership Roster
Edgar G. Ulmer
Screenplay
Peter E. Kassler
Producer
Shirley Ulmer
Screenplay
Edgar G. Ulmer
Director
Edward Hyland
Director of Photography
Edgar G. Ulmer
Production Design
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for The Light Ahead.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Light Ahead
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is The Light Ahead about?
The Light Ahead is possibly the greatest of Edgar G. Ulmer’s shtetl films. Here, the director counterpoints his pastoral Green Fields to criticize the poverty and superstition that oppress a pair of star-crossed lovers. Made on the eve of World War II, The Light Ahead is at once romantic, expressionist, and painfully conscious of the danger about to engulf European Jews. Impoverished and disabled lovers Fishke and Hodel dream of life in the big city of Odessa, free from the poverty and stifling old-world prejudices of the shtetl. The benevolent and enlightened bookseller Mendele helps them, turning small-town superstitions to their advantage. Based on Mendele Mokher Seforim's story of love frustrated by small-town ignorance, this luminous allegory of escape marries Edgar Ulmer's masterful direction with superb acting by members of New York's Artef and Yiddish Art Theaters.
Who directed The Light Ahead?
The Light Ahead was directed by Edgar G. Ulmer.
Who stars in The Light Ahead?
The principal cast of The Light Ahead includes Helen Beverly, David Opatoshu, Isidore Cashier.
When was The Light Ahead released and how long is it?
The Light Ahead was released in 1939 with a total runtime of 1h 34m.