The Backbone of America
The Backbone of America is a 1953 American TV movie written by Robert E. Sherwood and directed by Marc Daniels.
| The Backbone of America | |
|---|---|
 Thomas Mitchell as Fred Tupple | |
| Written by | Robert E. Sherwood |
| Directed by | Marc Daniels |
| Starring | Thomas Mitchell Wendell Corey Yvonne de Carlo |
| Country of origin | United States |
| Original language | English |
| Production | |
| Running time | 60 minutes |
| Release | |
| Original network | NBC |
| Original release |
|
Plot
An account executive tries to find the perfect American family to use in a forthcoming advertising campaign.
Cast
- Wendell Corey as Ben Bruce
- Yvonne De Carlo as Victoria Johnson
- Gene Lockhart as Uncle Cedric
- Thomas Mitchell as Fred Tupple
- Sammy Ogg as Wallie
- Lee Patrick as Ethel
- Gloria Talbott as Janet
- Regis Toomey as Bill Carmody
Production
It was the first play Sherwood wrote for television. He did it under a contract with NBC to write nine original plays over three years.[1][2]
The production was recorded in Hollywood. The cast had two weeks of rehearsals.[3] De Carlo said she was "panicked" to do the show but it ended up well. Alec Guinness had a contract with Alex Korda to make one film a year and he agreed to star.[4]
Reception
The New York Times said the play was "completely disappointing".[5]
References
- Lohman, Sidney (March 29, 1953). "News of TV and Radio – An Original TV Drama — Other Studio Items". New York Times. p. X11. Retrieved September 1, 2019.
- "Comedy and Drama Will Share TV Spot – N.B.C. Lists Berle and Hope Shows, Plays by Sherwood for Tuesdays at 8 in Autumn". New York Times. April 6, 1953. p. 28. Retrieved September 1, 2019.
- Lohman, Sidney (November 15, 1953). "News and Notes Gathered from the Studios". New York Times. p. X11. Retrieved September 1, 2019.
- De Carlo, Yvonne; Warren, Doug (1987). Yvonne: an autobiography. St Martins Press. p. 179.
- Gould, Jack (December 30, 1953). "Television Review: Sherwood – 'Backbone of America' is Disappointing Start in Playwright's Series – 'Average' U. S. Family Becomes Embroiled in High-Pressure Stunt". New York Times. p. 21. Retrieved September 1, 2019.
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