The Front Page was restored in 2016 by the Academy Film Archive and The Film Foundation. Restoration funding provided by the George Lucas Family Foundation.

When Ben Hecht and Charles MacArthur adapted their play for the screen in the early 1930s, the fast-paced dialogue and frantic comedy were even more effective than they had been on the stage. Their characters epitomized a Depression-era toughness and brilliantly drew upon the slang of the time.

Set in the competitive and cynical world of newspaper reporters as they await the hanging of a man whose conviction was politically convenient, the film follows Hildy Johnson (Pat O’Brien), an investigative reporter. Finding himself caught between a desire to stay and cover the story or leave and marry his fiancée (Mary Brian), Hildy tries to fight off the manipulations of his controlling editor (Adolphe Menjou).

The Front Page was restored from a 35mm safety composite print and sound on disc elements. This 4K digital restoration represents the American domestic release, which had not been seen in decades. Previously circulating copies originate from an international version. When compared to these copies, the American release contains more sophisticated editing of picture and sound, alternate dialogue and different scene composition. 

Elements for this restoration provided by The Howard Hughes Corporation, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas College of Fine Arts, Department of Film and its Howard Hughes Collection at the Academy Film Archive.

1931 Academy Award Nominee for Outstanding Production, Actor & Directing

Academy Museum film programming is generously funded by the Richard Roth Foundation.