Reefer Madness Cast: A Detailed Look into the Stars of the Infamous Film
When it comes to films that have left a lasting impact on the public consciousness, “Reefer Madness” is undoubtedly one of them. Released in 1936, this film is infamous for its portrayal of the dangers of marijuana use. Despite its controversial nature, the film has maintained a cult following over the years. One of the key reasons for its enduring popularity is the cast, which includes a mix of actors who have since gained fame and those who remain relatively unknown. Let’s delve into the cast of “Reefer Madness” and explore their backgrounds, roles, and the legacy they left behind.
The Lead Roles
The film’s protagonist, Norma Talmadge, was a well-known actress in the 1920s and 1930s. Born on May 13, 1894, in New York City, Norma was the daughter of actress Lillian Russell and the sister of actress Lila Lee. She began her acting career on stage and made her film debut in 1915. Over the years, Norma starred in numerous silent films and talkies, including “The Great Gatsby” (1926) and “The Love Parade” (1929). In “Reefer Madness,” she plays the role of Mary Wharton, a young woman who falls prey to the allure of marijuana and spirals into a life of despair.
Norma’s co-star, James Kennedy, was a relatively new actor at the time of “Reefer Madness.” Born on July 14, 1906, in New York City, James had appeared in a few films before landing the role of Bob Howard, Mary’s boyfriend and the film’s antagonist. Although James’ career did not take off as much as Norma’s, he continued to act in films and television shows throughout the 1940s and 1950s.
The Supporting Cast
One of the most memorable supporting characters in “Reefer Madness” is Ma Toomey, played by Mary Boland. Born on May 19, 1884, in New York City, Mary was a seasoned actress with a career spanning over four decades. She had appeared in numerous films and stage productions, including “The Great Ziegfeld” (1936) and “The Philadelphia Story” (1940). In “Reefer Madness,” Mary’s portrayal of Ma Toomey, the local tavern owner, is both comedic and poignant, adding depth to the film’s narrative.
Another notable supporting actor is Frank Faylen, who plays the role of Officer Brophy. Born on May 19, 1902, in New York City, Frank was a character actor who appeared in over 100 films throughout his career. His most famous role was as the taxi driver in “It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946). In “Reefer Madness,” Frank’s performance as Officer Brophy is both humorous and heartfelt, contributing to the film’s overall impact.
Additionally, the film features a number of other actors in supporting roles, including:-
| Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Harry Woods | Dr. Markham |
| Edwin Maxwell | Rev. Charles Lee |
| John Wray | Norma’s Father |
| Clara Blandick | Norma’s Mother |
The Legacy of the Cast
The cast of “Reefer Madness” has left a lasting legacy, both in terms of their individual careers and the impact of the film itself. Norma Talmadge, despite her controversial role in the film, continued to act in films and television shows until her death in 1961. James Kennedy’s career, however, did not reach the same level of success as Norma’s, but he remained active in the entertainment industry.Mary Boland’s performance as Ma Toomey is often cited as one of her best, and she continued to act in films and television until her death in 1979. Frank Faylen’s role as Officer Brophy is one of his most memorable, and he is still remembered for his work in “It’s a Wonderful Life.”The other supporting actors in “Reefer Madness” have