Swanee River (1939): cast, story & where to watch

1939 · Film

Swanee River poster

Released in 1939, Swanee River is a thriller, drama and music film directed by Sidney Lanfield, running about 84 minutes. “The Story of Stephen C. Foster - The Great American Troubadour” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. Swanee River is a 1940 American biopic about Stephen Foster, a songwriter from Pittsburgh who falls in love with the South, marries a Southern girl, then is accused of sympathizing when the Civil War breaks out. Typical of 20th Century Fox biopics of the time, the film is more fictional than factual biography.

Who’s in it. Swanee River stars Don Ameche as Stephen Foster, Andrea Leeds as Jane McDowell Foster, Al Jolson as Edwin P. Christy and Felix Bressart as Henry Kleber, among others.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Swanee River page.

If you liked it. Fans of Swanee River tend to enjoy The Dark Knight, Pulp Fiction, Parasite and Fight Club.

Frequently asked

Where can I watch Swanee River (1939)?
Streaming, rental and purchase options for Swanee River change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
Who stars in Swanee River?
Swanee River stars Don Ameche, Andrea Leeds, Al Jolson, Felix Bressart and Chick Chandler.
When was Swanee River released?
Swanee River was released in 1939, with a runtime of about 84 minutes.