Cradle Will Rock (DVD)

Cradle Will Rock (1999) starring Hank Azaria, Ruben Blades, Joan Cusack, John Cusack, Cary Elwes, Bill Murray, Vanessa Redgrave, Emily Watson. Written and directed by Tim Robbins. Portrait of the 1930s as seen through the eyes of theater people of the time. A theater troupe is trying to put on a play titled "The Cradle Will Rock," but they run into government opposition because the theme of the play is too "radical." Meanwhile, a WPA clerk (Joan Cusack) goes in front of Congress to testify against Communists and others. Ambitious effort at social commentary doesn't quite make the grade. Good subtitles, though. Grade: B