The story of Dr. Anton Mesmer, the man who discoverd hypnotism.The story of Dr. Anton Mesmer, the man who discoverd hypnotism.The story of Dr. Anton Mesmer, the man who discoverd hypnotism.
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Storyline
Did you know
- TriviaGravestone is shown with epitaph: "Lived in Glory Died in Shame. Forgotten, his story Defiled his name.
Franz Anton Mesmer 1815"
- Crazy creditsMesmerize, to hypnotize or place subject in trance. See Franz Mesmer, Austrian doctor, from whose name word was coined (1733--1815).
- ConnectionsFollowed by Annie Was a Wonder (1949)
Featured review
Mesmerising History
I disagree with other postings for this marvelous 'little' film. "The Fabulous Fraud" is a very well produced entry into the "Passing Parade" series. This series from the MGM shorts dept always featured good credentials. Most all consisted of talented cast members, good sets, costumes and capable Directors (many major Directors started with MGM Featuretts) These stories managed to be professionally put together on a minuscule budget. This particular title offered an early glimpse into the use of Hypnosis in treating certain medical conditions. John Nesbitt always produced a quality script and with his fine reading voice gave us fascinating insights into situations and characters from our history.
The Cinematography is by none other than Award winning Paul Vogel also known for his great work in numerous superb looking features: "Lady in the Lake" '47 - "Battleground" '49 - "Wonderful World of the Bros Grimm" '62 - "High Society" '56 - It's a Dogs Life" '55 and many other important movies. The scenes at the beginning and end of 'Fabulous Fraud', where the camera glides through a stark forest landscape at night are quite haunting. The Director, Edward L. Cahn went on to make "The Four Skulls of Johnnathan Drake" '59 and other support type features.
In a minor early role the reliable Morris Ankrum, an Atorney and Economics professor before turning to acting, manages to make a customary good impression, even with a part where he doesn't get to deliver a single line. John Baragrey from "The Lady or the Tiger" '42 and "The Loves of Carman" '48. is interesting as Dr Anton Mesmer. The Female roles are also diverting: Phyllis Morris appeared in "Three Came Home" - "Colonel Blimp" - "Goodbye Mr Chips" etc, with Marcia Mae Jones making appearances in "The Life of Emile Zola" '37 - "The Way We Were" '73 etc.
Look past the comments from those who seem to enjoy being impossible to please, without due consideration for the production restrictions imposed. This interesting story was recently screened to a film appreciation group and received a round of applause. Catch it on TCM when you can! Ken Roche.
The Cinematography is by none other than Award winning Paul Vogel also known for his great work in numerous superb looking features: "Lady in the Lake" '47 - "Battleground" '49 - "Wonderful World of the Bros Grimm" '62 - "High Society" '56 - It's a Dogs Life" '55 and many other important movies. The scenes at the beginning and end of 'Fabulous Fraud', where the camera glides through a stark forest landscape at night are quite haunting. The Director, Edward L. Cahn went on to make "The Four Skulls of Johnnathan Drake" '59 and other support type features.
In a minor early role the reliable Morris Ankrum, an Atorney and Economics professor before turning to acting, manages to make a customary good impression, even with a part where he doesn't get to deliver a single line. John Baragrey from "The Lady or the Tiger" '42 and "The Loves of Carman" '48. is interesting as Dr Anton Mesmer. The Female roles are also diverting: Phyllis Morris appeared in "Three Came Home" - "Colonel Blimp" - "Goodbye Mr Chips" etc, with Marcia Mae Jones making appearances in "The Life of Emile Zola" '37 - "The Way We Were" '73 etc.
Look past the comments from those who seem to enjoy being impossible to please, without due consideration for the production restrictions imposed. This interesting story was recently screened to a film appreciation group and received a round of applause. Catch it on TCM when you can! Ken Roche.
Details
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- Also known as
- Passing Parade No. 67: The Fabulous Fraud
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- See more company credits at IMDbPro
- Runtime11 minutes
- Color
- Aspect ratio
- 1.37 : 1
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