Shot 56 / 8:00–8:11Select a shot, or shift-click to select multipleSelect a shot, or double-tap to select multiple

Back of the Mike

19389 min 15 sec63 shots

The film takes viewers behind a radio microphone as performers and sound-effects workers create the final episode of a Western adventure. Actors read scripts around suspended microphones, while other workers use mechanical devices, household objects, and pieces of wood to produce the sounds of cars, telephone calls, a storm, chopping trees, fire, and pursuit. Studio scenes alternate with staged outdoor action, connecting the performers’ work to the adventure heard by the radio audience.

In the story, Pete Belden and his niece Betty are carrying the Flying B payroll when Sam Hicks and his gang rob them and kidnap Pete. Betty escapes, alerts Sheriff Tom, and helps summon a posse, but the gang sets a fire across a gap to block the pursuit. A car carries the rescuers through the danger, and the closing scene leaves Pete safe with Betty before the radio program bids its audience good night.

Provenance and rights

Original producer: Handy (Jam) Organization
Collection: Prelinger Archives
Original title: Back of the Mike
Date: 1938
Original link: Open on Internet Archive
Rights: public_domain