Skip to content

Tonight Collections Voices The Daily Library

Search films, people and collections/

Advanced search

A Criterion Channel companion.

Tonight
On 24/7
Leaving soon
Recently added
Fresh from theaters

Collections
Adventures in Moviegoing
Observations on Film Art
Meet the Filmmakers
Box sets
Editions

Closet
Top 10s
Commentators
The Feed

Lists
Want to watch
Favorites
Profile

© 2026 Criteria. Not affiliated with The Criterion Collection.

Still from Back Street — Back Street (1932) — John M. StahlPhotographed by Karl Freund

Poster for Back Street

John M. Stahl

Back Street

English / 1932 / 1h 33m

Not streamingNot currently on the Criterion Channel.

Letterboxd: 3.64/5·1.9K ratings·552 reviewson Letterboxd
Connections: View Connections

Synopsis

A woman's love for and devotion to a married man results in her being relegated to the "back streets" of his life.

Included in
Rebels at the Typewriter: Women Screenwriters of the 1930s
Position 4
Included in
November 2023
Position 6
Included in
Pre-Code Divas
Position 8
Included in
January 2021
Position 7
Included in
Directed by John M. Stahl
Position 1

Credits

Crew

DirectorJohn M. Stahl

WriterGladys Lehman, Gene Fowler, Lynn Starling, Ben Hecht

CinematographerKarl Freund

ComposerDavid Broekman

EditorMilton Carruth

ProducerCarl Laemmle Jr.

Cast

Irene Dunneas Ray Schmidt

John Bolesas Walter D. Saxel

George Meekeras Kurt Shendler

Zasu Pittsas Mrs. Dole

June Clydeas Freda Schmidt

William Bakewellas Richard Saxel

Arletta Duncanas Beth Saxel

Doris Lloydas Corinne Saxel

Paul Weigelas Adolph Schmidt

Jane Darwellas Mrs. Adolph Schmidt

Shirley Greyas Francine

James Donlanas Profhero

Walter Catlettas Bakeless

Robert McWadeas Uncle Felix

Gloria Stuartas Young Woman (uncredited)

Betty Blytheas Gossip (uncredited)

Symona Bonifaceas Lady at Casino (uncredited)

Bob Burnsas Horsecar Driver (uncredited)

Jack Chefeas Casino Onlooker (uncredited)

Rose Dioneas Minor Role (uncredited)

Back Street (1932) | Criteria