Show Boat (1929): cast, story & where to watch
1929 · Film · ★ 5
Released in 1929, Show Boat is a drama film directed by Arch Heath, running about 146 minutes. “Universal's Motion Picture Triumph!” — that tagline sets the tone.
What it’s about. This film sticks very closely to the Edna Ferber novel, rather than the musical based on the novel. There are only two major changes from Ferber's book : *Julie in this version is a white woman, not a racially mixed one; therefore she and her husband are not unlawfully married. * Ravenal returns at the end, instead of dying as in the novel
Who’s in it. Show Boat stars Laura La Plante as Magnolia, Joseph Schildkraut as Gaylord Ravenal, Emily Fitzroy as Parthenia Ann Hawks and Otis Harlan as Capt. Andy Hawks, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 5.0/10, Show Boat has proved divisive with audiences.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Show Boat page.
If you liked it. Fans of Show Boat tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Show Boat (1929)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for Show Boat change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is Show Boat worth watching?
- Show Boat holds an audience score of 5.0 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy drama. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in Show Boat?
- Show Boat stars Laura La Plante, Joseph Schildkraut, Emily Fitzroy, Otis Harlan and Alma Rubens.
- When was Show Boat released?
- Show Boat was released in 1929, with a runtime of about 146 minutes.