The Great Man Votes! - A forgotten gem exploring early 20th-century politics and societal tensions through the eyes of an influential yet conflicted individual.

A voyage into the annals of television history often reveals fascinating, forgotten gems waiting to be rediscovered. Among these hidden treasures lies “The Great Man Votes!”, a captivating series that aired in the twilight of the 1930s. This program, while largely unknown today, offers a glimpse into the societal and political anxieties of its era, all wrapped in a compelling narrative centered around a powerful yet deeply conflicted protagonist.

Produced by the pioneering network NBC, “The Great Man Votes!” premiered on October 27th, 1938. This pre-World War II series delved into the world of Cornelius Van Derlyn, a shrewd and influential industrialist portrayed by the renowned stage actor Frank Craven. Van Derlyn, a titan in his field, faces an ethical dilemma: should he use his vast wealth and influence to support a controversial political candidate?

The premise itself was groundbreaking for its time. In an era dominated by lighthearted entertainment and escapist fare, “The Great Man Votes!” dared to explore complex moral questions, forcing viewers to confront the consequences of wielding power in a rapidly changing world.

The Narrative Landscape of Moral Quandaries

Each episode of “The Great Man Votes!” unfolded as a miniature theatrical production, utilizing sound effects and evocative narration to paint a vivid picture for the radio audience. Van Derlyn’s internal struggle formed the backbone of the series, as he grappled with his convictions while navigating a landscape of political maneuvering, social unrest, and personal ambition.

The candidate he considers supporting, Senator Archibald Grimshaw (played by the veteran character actor William Demarest), represented a burgeoning populist movement promising sweeping social reforms. However, Grimshaw’s fiery rhetoric and radical ideas sparked controversy, dividing public opinion and leaving Van Derlyn in a state of moral ambiguity. Should he back a figure who could potentially upset the established order, even if it meant jeopardizing his own position?

The series masterfully interwove personal dramas with broader social commentary. Alongside Van Derlyn’s internal conflict, “The Great Man Votes!” explored themes such as class inequality, political corruption, and the growing chasm between the haves and have-nots. Through a cast of well-drawn characters, each representing different facets of early 20th-century American society, the series offered a nuanced portrayal of the era’s anxieties and aspirations.

“The Great Man Votes!”: A Legacy Lost in Time

Sadly, “The Great Man Votes!” is largely forgotten today. Few recordings of the series exist, and its cultural impact has faded into obscurity. Yet, this lost gem deserves to be rediscovered for its bold thematic exploration, compelling characterization, and innovative use of the radio medium.

While it may not have achieved lasting fame, “The Great Man Votes!” stands as a testament to the power of television (in its early, radio-based form) to grapple with complex social issues and provoke thought-provoking discussions. Its legacy lies in its willingness to delve into the murky depths of morality, reminding us that even influential figures face difficult choices with far-reaching consequences.

The series’ enduring relevance lies in its exploration of timeless themes: the responsibility that comes with power, the allure of radical change, and the ever-present tension between individual ambition and societal well-being. “The Great Man Votes!” serves as a powerful reminder that even forgotten stories can hold profound lessons for our own times.

Characters You Won’t Forget

A glimpse into the narrative structure:

“The Great Man Votes!” followed a serialized format, with each episode building upon the previous one. While the overarching conflict revolved around Van Derlyn’s decision regarding Grimshaw, individual episodes explored specific facets of this dilemma:

• Episode 1: “A Proposition”: Introduces Van Derlyn and Grimshaw, setting the stage for their ideological clash.
• Episode 5: “The People’s Voice”: Explores the populist movement’s appeal and the concerns it raises among established elites.
• Episode 10: “Crossroads”: Reaches a pivotal point as Van Derlyn weighs the potential consequences of his decision.

Lost in the Archives? The scarcity of surviving recordings makes it difficult to fully assess the impact and artistry of “The Great Man Votes!”. However, contemporary reviews from publications like The New York Times and Variety praised the series for its insightful writing, strong performances, and timely subject matter. They described Craven’s portrayal of Van Derlyn as both compelling and complex, capturing the character’s inner turmoil with remarkable nuance.

Though lost to most modern audiences, “The Great Man Votes!” offers a glimpse into a bygone era of television while exploring themes that remain strikingly relevant today. Perhaps someday, rediscovered recordings will allow us to fully appreciate this forgotten gem of early broadcasting history.