This page presents an annotated, worldwide bibliography of reviews, articles and other published material related to the 1928 film Beggars of Life (link to LBS filmography page). This film featured Louise Brooks in the role of Nancy, a girl. Under its American title, documented screenings of the film took place in Australia, Canada, China, England, France, India, Ireland, Isle of Man, Jamacia, New Zealand, Scotland, South Africa, and Sweden. Elsewhere, this motion picture was known to have been shown under other-language titles including Bettler des Lebens (Austria); Meias indiscretag (Brazil); Mendigos da vida (Brazil); Mendigos de la Vida (Chile); Žebráci života (Czechoslovakia); Žebráky živote (Czechoslovakia); De Lovløses Tog (Denmark); Menschen Zijn Nooit Tevreden (Dutch East Indies); Les mendiants de la vie (France); I mendicanti della vita (Italy); Bettler des Lebens (Latvia); Bettlers des Lebens (Les Mendiants de la Vie) (Luxembourg); Mendigos de vida (Mexico); Menschen Zijn Nooit Tevreden (The Netherlands); Zwervers (The Netherlands); Ludzie bezdomni (Poland); Mendigos da vida (Portugal); Strada cersetorilor (Romania); and Mendigos de vida (Spain).
As research is ongoing, this page is a work in progress. It is understood that any given citation comes from an American source, unless otherwise noted. The intention of this bibliography is to be both comprehensive and useful. Most citations represent a substantial review or article. Capsule reviews, or significant shorter pieces — usually a paragraph or two in length — are so noted. Entries are arranged chronologically. Critical commentary regarding Brooks, or the film as a whole (excerpted from the material cited) is given as annotations. Some citations link to the material noted: some of these links reside on the Louise Brooks Society, while others reside elsewhere on the web.
Much can be gleamed from a bibliography such as this. Besides what critics thought of the film, one can follow the path of the film’s distribution — where it showed and when; sometimes, for example, the exhibition record might reveal if the film was shown before its official release date. As well, this bibliography shows which critics at which newspapers and magazines reviewed films. History, here, is in the details.
An * indicates that a copy of this citation is held in the archives of the LBS. This annotated bibliography has been compiled by Thomas Gladysz, and was last updated in October 2015. [Help wanted: If you know of additional citations, can provide further information on entries noted on this page, or can provide copies of citations not marked with an * but which are known to exist, please contact the LBS. The LBS would like to acquire material on the screening of this film in Latin America, eastern Europe, the Soviet Union, and Asia.]
BEGGARS OF LIFE
released September 22, 1928
anonymous. “Film of Tramp Life.” Brooklyn Daily Eagle, July 12, 1926. *
— brief article in New York City newspaper
Jungmeyer, Jack. “Jim Tully, Hobo Artist, Has Placed Clan on Silver Sheet.” Bakersfield Californian, July 22, 1926. *
— instance of related syndicated article in Bakersfield, California newspaper
Brinkley, Elena. “Louise Brooks, Richard Arlen Cast in Beggars of Life.” Hollywood Daily Citizen, February 3, 1928. *
— article in Hollywood, California newspaper
Associated Press. “Hollywood Stars.” Washington Post, February 4, 1928. *
— mention in syndicated column in Washington D.C. newspaper
Brinkley, Elena. “Wallace Beery May Play in Outside Looking In.” Hollywood Daily Citizen, February 17, 1928. *
— article in Hollywood, California newspaper
anonymous. “Tully Sells Two Stories to Make One.” Washington Post, March 4, 1928. *
— article in Washington D.C. newspaper
anonymous. “Paramount To Film Noted Tully Novel.” Toledo Times, March 25, 1928. *
— article in Toledo, Ohio newspaper
anonymous. “Jim Tully, Noted Writer, Tells of Old Hobo Jungle.” Washington Post, June 24, 1928. *
— article in Washington D.C. newspaper
Nina. “Sidelights of the Stage and Screen.” Amarillo Globe, June 25, 1928. *
— “The company filming Jim Tully’s story, Beggars of Life, recently went on location at Jacumba, a little town near the Mexican border. Jacumba sleeps during the day but at night four of the more talented citizens gather to form an orchestra and there is a dance – held next door to the one hotel. Louise Brooks, trying to sleep after a hard day before the cameras, finally arose, slipped a coat on over pajamas, and went to the dance hall. “How much do you make a night?” she inquired of the orchestra leader. “Oh, about ten dollars,” he said. “Here’s fifteen,” said Miss Brooks, holding out the currency. “I’m hiring you to not play any more tonight.” – anecdote in syndicated column in Amarillo, Texas newspaper
anonymous. “Director and Star are Famous After Decade and Joint Efforts In Making New Paramount Film.” Mansfield News, June 28, 1928. *
— “Wallace Beery and Louise Brooks and Richard Arlen head the company of 75 players who have gone to Jacumba Hot Springs to film the railroad scenes of Jim Tully’s Beggars of Life.” – small write-up in syndicated column in Mansfield, Ohio newspaper
anonymous. “All Hobo Cast for Beggars of Life.” Zanesville Signal, July 1, 1928. *
— Brooks is referenced in syndicated article in Zanesville, Ohio newspaper
Bell, Nelson B. “Behind the Screens.” Washington Post, July 5, 1928. *
— part of article in Washington D.C. newspaper
anonymous. “New Pictures.” Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World, July 7, 1928. *
— article in film trade journal
Nina. “Sidelights of the Stage and Screen.” Amarillo Globe, July 20, 1928. *
— “Jim Tully, author of “Beggars of Life,” from which Paramount is now making a moving picture, has been engaged to write the titles. Wallace Beery has the leading role, supported by Richard Arlen and Louise Brooks, and William Wellman is directing.” – write-up in syndicated column in Amarillo, Texas newspaper
Looker-on, The. “Only Movietones is Outlook for Near Future in Films.” Reno Gazette, July 28, 1928. *
— “It has been said that the talking movie would sound the death-knell of the popularity of some of the famous stars. It may be so, but on the other hand it is going to give trained men and women a chance that they might otherwhise have lacked. Thus Wallace Beery, who once was a star in musical comedy, is clever enough on the silent film in all sakes, but now it it announced that he is to sing a rollicking hobo song that will be synchronized with his motion-picture in Beggars of Life. And Beery really can sing.” – mention in column article in Reno, Nevada newspaper
anonymous. “Beggar and Better.” Motion Picture Classic, August, 1928. *
— page of captioned portraits of Brooks by E.R. Richee
anonymous. “Real Beggars of Life Always Chase Rainbows.” Mansfield News, August 1, 1928. *
— Brooks is referenced in syndicated article in Mansfield, Ohio newspaper
anonymous. “Wreck Freight Train for Hobo Picture.” Zanesville Signal, August 5, 1928. *
— Brooks is referenced in instance of syndicated article in Zanesville, Ohio newspaper
anonymous. “More Than You Have Known Before About a Mr. Beery.” Washington Post, August 19, 1928. *
— “If a location is within flying distance of Hollywood, he takes his ‘ship.’ He flew it to Jacumba, Calif., on the Mexican border, where a Paramount unit has just finished filming the thrilling railroad scenes of Beggars of Life, Jim Tully’s hobo epic. While Richard and Louise Brooks endured weary weeks in the sunburned mountain village, Beery was able to hop to Beverly Hills for dinner and back again in the morning.” – article in Washington D.C. newspaper
anonymous. “Beggars of Life.” National Board of Review Magazine, September, 1928. *
— capsule review; “The interest is well sustained and the acting is excellent.”
anonymous. “At the Jayhawk.” Topeka Daily State Journal, September 1, 1928. *
— brief article in Topeka, Kansas newspaper
anonymous. “Beggars of Life (Paramount).” Kinematograph Weekly, September 6, 1928. (England) *
— brief article; “Louise Brooks has the only feminine role in the picture, and this graceful girl steps out in Beggars of Life in one of the biggest roles of her screen career.”
anonymous. “Beggars of Life At Capitol Today.” Salt Lake Telegram, September 11, 1928. *
— article in Salt Lake City, Utah newspaper
anonymous. “Beggars of Life.” The Bioscope, September 12, 1928. (England) *
— capsule review; “Louise Brooks plays a difficult part with distinction and Richard Arlen is extremely good as her tramp lover.”
Collier, Lionel. “Beggars of Life.” Kinematograph Weekly, September 13, 1928. (England) *
— capsule review; “Louise Brooks is admirable as the girl.”
anonymous. “Crimson Playgoer.” The Crimson, September 21, 1928. *
— “Metropolitan, continuous – Beggars of Life with Wallace Beery and Louise Brooks. Tramp, Tramp, the hobooes are coming to town.” – brief notice in Harvard University student newspaper
anonymous. “Beery at the Met.” Boston Post, September 22, 1928. *
— article in Boston, Massachusetts newspaper
anonymous. “Hobohemia Saga Told in Strand Film.” Vancouver Sun, September 22, 1928. (Canada) *
— article in Vancouver newspaper
G., W. E. “The Screen.” Boston Herald, September 22, 1928. *
— review in Boston, Massachusetts newspaper
Allen, Kelcey. “The Screen.” Women’s Wear Daily, September 22, 1928. *
— capsule notice; “Wallace Beery plays the lead, with Richard Arlen and Louise Brooks. All of these stars outdo themselves in this picture. Wallace Beery talks in this picture, sings a hobo song and ends with an observation about jungle rats in general.”
M., J. C. “The Current Cinema.” New Yorker, September 22, 1928. *
— short mention in film column; “Of these three pictures it is the only one weakened by a conventional plot, a plot for which I see no reason except that it gives Louise Brooks a chance to wear boy’s clothes and to jump a freight, both of which she always does, however, with an imperturbable maidenliness, generally to the synchronized accompaniment of sentimental music.”
anonymous. “Hobohemia in Sound Picture, Shea’s Buffalo.” Buffalo Courier-Express, September 23, 1928. *
— “No less important is Louise Brooks, in a difficult role.” – article in Buffalo, New York newspaper
anonymous. “Beggars of Life im Paramount Theater.” New Yorker Volkszeitung, September 23, 1928. *
— brief article in German-language, New York City newspaper
G., P. “Beery Scores in Character Role in Beggars of Life.” Morning Telegraph, September 23, 1928. *
— “Louise Brooks, in a complete departure from the pert flapper that it has been her wont to portray, here definitely places herself on the map as a fine actress.” – New York City newspaper
anonymous. “Week’s Offerings at Buffalo’s Playhouses.” Buffalo Courier-Express, September 24, 1928. *
— “And then there are those two capable and good-looking youngsters, Louise Brooks and Richard Arlen, who make the most of splendid parts and excellent casting and achieve enviable performances.” – review in Buffalo, New York newspaper
anonymous. “He’s a Serious Wallace Beery.” Buffalo Evening News, September 24, 1928. *
— review in Buffalo, New York newspaper
anonymous. “Capitol.” Lansing State Journal, September 24, 1928. *
— “No less important to the story and no less successful in her interpretation is Louise Brooks, that slim, graceful girl who has won her way to moving picture fame by the sheer force of her ability and personality. In Beggars of Life she plays a difficult role wonderfully well and climbs many rungs on her ladder to stardom.” – review in Lansing, Michigan newspaper
anonymous. “New Motion Pictures.” New York Post, September 24, 1928. *
— “The boy and girl roles are played well enough by Mr. Arlen and Miss Brooks.” – New York City newspaper
anonymous. “New Photoplay Bills.” Toledo Blade, September 24, 1928. *
— “The role of Nancy is played splendidly by Louise Brooks.” – brief review in Toledo, Ohio newspaper
B., E.H. “Capitol.” Lansing Capital News, September 24, 1928. *
— short review in Lansing, Michigan newspaper
Cohen Jr., John S. “The New Photoplays.” New York Sun, September 24, 1928. *
— “The acting, especially that of the principals, Richard Arlen, Louise Brooks, Robert Perry (who plays Snake) and I suppose Wallace Beery, as Red, is especially fine.” – New York City newspaper
Dickstein, Martin. “The Cinema Circuit.” Brooklyn Daily Eagle, September 24, 1928. *
— review in New York City newspaper
F., C. F. “The Current Cinema.” Brooklyn Daily Times, September 24, 1928. *
— review in New York City newspaper
Hall, Mordaunt. “The Freight Hoppers.” New York Times, September 24, 1928. *
— “Louise Brooks figures as Nancy. She is seen for the greater part of this subject in male attire, having decided to wear these clothes to avoid being apprehended. Miss Brooks really acts well, better than she has in most of her other pictures.” – New York City newspaper
Martin, Quinn. “The New Films.” The World, September 24, 1928. *
— “Here we have Louise Brooks, that handsome brunette, playing the part of a fugitive from justice, and playing as if she meant it, and with a certain impressive authority and manner.” – New York City newspaper
Johaneson, Bland. “Wallace Beery Comes Into His Own.” Daily Mirror, September 24, 1928. *
— “Louise Brooks does the best work of her career as the stolid little murderess, fugitive among the hoboes.” – New York City newspaper
W., M. “Actionful Story Of Tramp Life Told On Princess Silver Sheet.” Toledo Times, September 24, 1928. *
— “Louise Brooks and Richard Arlen depict Nancy and Jim and merit a deal of praise for their excellent performances.” – review in Toledo, Ohio newspaper
Watts Jr., Richard. “On the Screen.” New York Herald Tribune, September 24, 1928. *
— “Incidently, Richard Arlen’s juvenile vagrant, so delightfully played on the stage by James Cagney, is an excellent piece of work, while Louise Brooks’s delineation of the girl fugutive is so good as to indicate that Miss Brooks is a real actress, as well as an alluring personality.” – New York City newspaper
Zimmerman, Katherine “Beery Scores in Character Role in Beggars of Life.” New York Telegram, September 24, 1928. *
— “The handsome Louise Brooks is cast as the maiden in the case and performs this part with her usual composure and talent for expressing starry eyed wonder.” – New York City newspaper
Sid. “Beggars of Life.” Variety, September 26, 1928. *
— “Miss Brooks looks attractive, even in men’s clothes, and scores in the two or three scenes where she is placed on defensive against male attackers.”
anonymous. “Opinions on Pictures.” Motion Picture News, September 26, 1928. *
— “Wallace Beery is great as the hobo and the others fit their roles satisfactory.” – review in trade journal
anonymous. “Music and the Movies.” Musical Courier, September 27, 1928. *
— ” . . . one of the most entertaining films of the littered season.” – capsule review of New York City screening
anonymous. “Hobo Jargon Is An Amazing Language.” Ottawa Citizen, September 29, 1928. (Canada) *
— related article in Ottawa, Canada newspaper
anonymous. “Wallace Beery in Startling Tully Drama at the Imperial.” Ottawa Citizen, September 29, 1928. (Canada) *
— “Intriguing, interesting, with a cold, half-insolent beauty of face and figure masking a hidden fire, Louise Brooks is here allowed to flame on the screen for the first time. In Beggars of Life, a new Louise Brooks bursts forth to grasp the first big chance of her career.” – article in Ottawa, Canada newspaper
anonymous. “Pictures Playing Atlanta This Week.” Weekly Film Review, September 29, 1928. *
— capsule review; “Louise Brooks does her best trouping: she is absolutely convincing.” – Atlanta, Georgia trade journal
Harrison, P. S. “Beggars of Life – with Wallace Beery, Richard Arlen and Louise Brooks.” Harrison’s Reports, September 29, 1928. *
— short review in trade publication; “Few pictures can boast a greater realism than can Beggars of Life.”
P., J. E. “Beggars of Life.” Billboard, September 29, 1928. *
— “Richard Arlen, the juvenile lead, and Louise Brooks, who carries the feminine love interest, are just ordinary in their performances, while the only saving grace is Beery himself.”
anonymous. “Hollywood’s Best In Queen Picture.” Austin American-Statesman, September 30, 1928. *
— article in Austin, Texas newspaper
anonymous. “Beggars of Life.” Film Daily, September 30, 1928. *
— capsule review; “Louise Brooks lost in male attire and a one-way expression of fright she never loses.”
anonymous. “‘Hobohemia’ Described In Tully’s Beggars of Life.” Lima News, September 30, 1928. *
— article in Lima, Ohio newspaper
anonymous. “Jim Tully Story, Beggars of Life, Opens at Granada.” Santa Barbara Morning Press, September 30, 1928. *
— “It has an all-star cast, including Richard Arlen and Louise Brooks.” – article in Santa Barbara, California newspaper
Hall, Mordaunt. “Hobo Yarn is Rather Tame.” New York Times, September 30, 1928. *
— ” . . . a monotone effort despite that fact that people are thrown off trains and a girl shoots a man.” – New York City newspaper
Lusk, Norbert. “Far Reaching Movie is Made.” Los Angeles Times, September 30, 1928. *
— “Richard Arlen and Louise Brooks also capture honors for their sincerity and a poignant, moving quality they infuse into their roles without seeming to act at all. Miss Brooks, who has hitherto qualified as a particularly provocative figure, now establishes herself as a real actress.” – write-up in article in Los Angeles, California newspaper
Aston, Frank. “Beery Leads His Tramps.” Cincinnati Post, October 1, 1928. *
— “Beery with his coarse humor and Miss Brooks with her simplicity are exceedingly good. The direction is admirable. Vitaphonic sounds lend some extra force. Beery is heard singing.” – review in Cincinnati, Ohio newspaper
W., P. H. “Beggars of Life Full of Hoboes and Slow Trains.” Santa Barbara Daily News, October 1, 1928. *
— review in Santa Barbara, California newspaper
Lynn, G. W. “Santa Barbara Screen Gossip.” Santa Barbara Morning Press, October 1, 1928. *
— “No less important to the story and no less successful in her interpretation is Louise Brooks, a graceful girl who has won her way to moving picture fame by sheer ability and personality. In Beggars of Life she plays a difficult role.” – article in Santa Barbara, California newspaper
anonymous. “Film Features.” Baltimore Sun, October 2, 1928. *
— “Louise Brooks as the pretty issue at stake.” – capsule review in Baltimore, Maryland newspaper
anonymous. “In Lima Theaters.” Lima News, October 2, 1928. *
— article in Lima, Ohio newspaper
Lynn, G. W. “Santa Barbara Screen Gossip.” Santa Barbara Morning Press, October 2, 1928. *
— review in Santa Barbara, California newspaper
P., R. W. “Dramatic Story Is Told in Film At Valencia.” Baltimore Post, October 3, 1928. *
— review in Baltimore, Maryland newspaper
anonymous. “Tramp Always Seeks For Pot of Gold – Tully.” Davenport Democrat And Leader, October 5, 1926. *
— related article in Davenport, Iowa newspaper
Clark, Norman. “Hobohemia Is Shown at Valencia.” Baltimore News, October 5, 1928. *
— review in Baltimore, Maryland newspaper
Lane, Anabel. “Views and Reviews.” Film Mercury, October 5, 1928. *
— review in trade journal
anonymous. “Hobohemia Saga Features Beery At The Palace.” Hartford Courant, October 7, 1928 . *
— article in Hartford, Connecticut newspaper
anonymous. “Beggars of Life on Palace Screen.” Hartford Times, October 7, 1928 . *
— article in Hartford, Connecticut newspaper
anonymous. “Story of Hobo Life Provides Strong Picture.” Davenport Democrat And Leader, October 7, 1926. *
— review in Davenport, Iowa newspaper
anonymous. “Hobohemia Saga Features Beery At The Palace.” Hartford Courant, October 7, 1928 . (United States)
— article in Hartford, Connecticut newspaper
anonymous. “Tully’s Big Tramp Life at Texas.” San Antonio Express, October 7, 1928. *
— “The role of the girl is played by Louise Brooks, whose appealing beauty is particularly suited to characterization.” – article in San Antonio, Texas newspaper
anonymous. “Arlen Picture Showing at Texas.” San Antonio Light, October 7, 1928. *
— article in San Antonio, Texas newspaper
anonymous. “Beggars of Life on Palace Screen.” Hartford Times, October 8, 1928 . *
— review in Hartford, Connecticut newspaper
anonymous. “Tramp Life Classic Scores at Texas.” San Antonio Express, October 8, 1928. *
— review in San Antonio, Texas newspaper
anonymous. “New Pictures.” Time, October 8, 1928. *
— capsule review; “Louise Brooks, as usual, is decorative, never decorous.”
Mueller, Anita. “Screen in Review.” St. Louis Globe-Democrat, October 8, 1928. *
— “Tully has woven his story around a girl murderess (Louise Brooks) seeking to evade the law who joins a band of tramps.” – review in St. Louis, Missouri newspaper
Nie. “The Week’s New Films.” St. Louis Post-Dispatch, October 8, 1928. *
— brief review; “. . . and Louise Brooks, the latter showing considerable talent in the role of the girl who wasn’t done right by until the eighth reel.” – St. Louis, Missouri newspaper
anonymous. “At the Movies.” Bismarck Tribune, October 12, 1928 *
— article in Bismark, North Dakota newspaper
anonymous. “Notes on the Passing Show.” Dallas Morning News, October 15, 1928. *
— related article in Dallas, Texas newspaper
anonymous. “Photoplay Reviews.” Democrat & Chronicle, October 15, 1928. *
— review in Rochester, New York newspaper
anonymous. “Strand.” Providence Evening Bulletin, October 15, 1928. *
— review in Providence, Rhode Island newspaper
anonymous. “At The Theaters.” Providence Journal, October 15, 1928. *
— “No less important to the story and no less successful in her interpretation is Louise Brooks, that slim, graceful girl who has won her way to moving picture fame by the sheer force of her ability and personality. In Beggars of Life she plays a difficult role wonderfully well.” – review in Providence, Rhode Island newspaper
Croughton, Amy H. “Beggars of Life. At the Picadilly Theater.” Rochester Times-Union, October 15, 1928. *
— review in Rochester, New York newspaper
Marsh, W. Ward. “Beggars of Life. State.” Cleveland Plain Dealer, October 15, 1928. *
— “The picture is a raw, sometimes bleeding slice of life . . . . Both Arlen and Miss Brooks appear as effectively as I have ever seen either of them. . . . Miss Brooks, considering her record, does surprisingly well.” – review in Cleveland, Ohio newspaper
Quinn, Tom. “State.” Cleveland Press, October 15, 1928. *
— “Richard Arlen and Louise Brooks do some fine work.” – review in Cleveland, Ohio newspaper
anonymous. “Notes on the Passing Show.” Dallas Morning News, October 16, 1928. *
— related article in Dallas, Texas newspaper
anonymous. “Tale of Hobos Life Is Interesting Story.” Toronto Star, October 16, 1928. (Canada) *
— review in Toronto, Canada newspaper
anonymous. “At the Theaters.” Wisconsin Rapids Daily Tribune, October 16, 1928. *
— short article in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin newspaper
Tinee, Mae. “Movie Reveals Gay Cat’s Life, Far from Gay.” Chicago Tribune, October 18, 1928 *
— review in Chicago, Illinois newspaper
anonymous. “Stage – Music – Photoplay.” Detroit Saturday Night, October 20, 1928. *
— short write-up in weekly Detroit, Michigan entertainment newspaper
Service, T.O. “Service Talks.” Exhibitors Herald and Moving Picture World, October 20, 1928. *
— review in film trade journal
anonymous. “The Screen.” Indianapolis Daily Star, October 22, 1928. *
— capsule review in Indianapolis, Indiana newspaper
anonymous. “Jim Tully Yarn Is Good Movie at Wisconsin.” Milwaukee Leader, October 22, 1928. *
— review in Milwaukee, Wisconsin newspaper
Heffernan, Harold. “The New Movies in Review.” Detroit News, October 22, 1928. *
— “Louise Brooks, who always looks gorgeous in beautiful clothes, suffers a bit from the man’s garments called for by the role, but she does well.” – review in Detroit, Michigan newspaper
Patton, Peggy. “Wisconsin Film is Different.” Wisconsin News, October 22, 1928. *
— “Wallace Beery, Richard Arlen (also playing in Wings) and Louise Brooks play the featured roles. All do praiseworthy work. By the way it is a sound picture and Wallace Beery speaks a few lines and sings a song. His speaking voice is splendid.” – review in Milwaukee, Wisconsin newspaper
R. Jr., J. “The New Pictures Reviewed.” Dallas Morning News, October 22, 1928. *
— review in Dallas, Texas newspaper
J., L.D. “At the Capitol.” Des Moines Register, February 25, 1929. *
— review in Des Moines, Iowa newspaper
McCormick, Ella H. “Reel Players.” Detroit Free Press, October 22, 1928. *
— “Louise Brooks, as Nancy, does as capable a job as she has done within recent time. Miss Brooks, who has the only women’s part in the film, is just another outcast who eventually finds happiness and love with Jim.” – review in Detroit, Michigan newspaper
anonymous. “Pinney Shows Life of Hobos.” Boise Capital News, October 27, 1928. *
— article in Boise, Idaho newspaper
Richardson, Charles. “New Pictures Are Varied.” Detroit Times, October 27, 1928. *
— review in Detroit, Michigan newspaper
anonymous. “Tully’s Narrative On Silver Screen.” Daily Bruin, October 27, 1928. *
— article in UCLA student newspaper
anonymous. “Wallace Beery Stars: Beggars of Life.” Hollywood Filmograph, October 27, 1928. *
— article in Hollywood, California trade journal
Beaton, Donald. “As They Appeal to a Youth.” Film Spectator, October 27, 1928. *
— review written by an 18-year old critic – “Another good bit was a scene where Louise Brooks describes a murder. It is much the same way in which Victor Seastrom showed thoughts in Masks of the Devil. Miss Brooks’ face was superimposed upon the action which took place during the murder, and thus the audience got her reaction to everything. It was very interesting.”
Beaton, Welford. “It All Depends Upon How Interested We Are in Hoboes.” Film Spectator, October 27, 1928. *
— “Wellman handled the romance between Louise Brooks and Dick Arlen with sympathy and good taste, but I could take no great sentimental interest in it, but whether the fault is mine or the picture’s I don’t know. Perhaps it was because Miss Brooks was not equal to the demands of the romantic scenes, which made Arlen’s splendid work greatly overshadow hers.”
Carroll, Harrison. “Dick Arlen Gives Fine Portrayal in Film at Met.” Los Angeles Evening Herald, October 27, 1928. *
— “The film’s outstanding scene from the point of view of acting as well as direction takes place between Dick Arlen and Louise Brooks while they are concealed in a hay-stack.” – Los Angeles, California newspaper
Miller, Llewellyn. “Bum Film at Metropolitan.” Los Angeles Record, October 27, 1928. *
— “Louise Brooks and Richard Arlen play Nancy and Jim very well.” – review in Los Angeles, California newspaper
Parsons, Louella O. “Story of Hoboes Offered at ‘Met’.” Los Angeles Examiner, October 27, 1928. *
— “I was a little disappointed in Louise Brooks. She is so much more the modern flapper type, the Ziegfeld Follies girl, who wears clothes and is always gay and flippant. This girl is somber, worried to distraction and in no comedy mood. Miss Brook is infinitely better when she has her lighter moments.” – Los Angeles, California newspaper
Taylor, Ken. “Wallie Beery Is Lure of the Open Highway.” Los Angeles Evening Express, October 27, 1928. *
— “At any rate he lends a masculinity that is agreeable and which persists even with the prominence given Louise Brooks as the only girl.” – Los Angeles, California newspaper
anonymous. “Collie Just Pined Away for Richard.” Los Angeles Times, October 28, 1928. *
— article about the making of the film in Los Angeles, California newspaper
anonymous. “Strand.” Minneapolis Journal, October 28, 1928. *
— capsule review in Minneapolis, Minnesota newspaper
S., H. A. “Beggars of Life Exceptional Film.” Columbus Dispatch, October 28, 1928. *
— review in Columbus, Ohio newspaper
Allhoff. “Beggars of Life Strays From Text, But Is Good Movie.” Ohio State Journal, October 29, 1928. *
— review in Columbus, Ohio newspaper
anonymous. ” ‘Beggars of Life’ Tells of Hobos.” Los Angeles Times, October 29, 1928. (United States)
— version of review printed two days earlier; “Louise Brooks is appealing in one of the best roles that has drifted her way in many a moon.” – Los Angeles, California newspaper
anonymous. “Theaters.” Minneapolis Star, October 29, 1928. *
— brief review in Minneapolis, Minnesota newspaper
anonymous. “Movies.” Minneapolis Tribune, October 29, 1928. *
— brief review in Minneapolis, Minnesota newspaper
Hays, Richard E. “Guest Star Has Excellent Role in Duffy Comedy.” Seattle Daily Times, October 29, 1928. *
— capsule review in Seattle, Washington newspaper
McNulty, John. “Mr Beery Burst Into Song.” Columbus Citizen, October 29, 1928. *
— “Miss Brooks only needs remain as warm to look upon, and she can have any role she wants as far as we’re concerned.” – review in Columbus, Ohio newspaper
Gebhart, Myrtle. “The Saga of the Hobo.” Picture-Play, November, 1928. *
— long article about the film, with attention paid to Wallace Beery and the life of hobos; Brooks is twice pictured
anonymous. “Let’s Go to the Movies.” Kansas City Star, November 4, 1928. *
— article in Kansas City, Missouri newspaper
Tinee, Mae. “Awards and Honorable Mention for Dozen Films.” Chicago Tribune, November 4, 1928 *
— Beggars of Life is named one of the best films of the preceding month in Chicago, Illinois newspaper
anonymous. “Previews.” Daily Oklahoman, November 4, 1928. *
— brief write-up in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma newspaper
anonymous. “Clever Comedy Is Feature at Regent.” Riverside Daily Press, November 5, 1928. *
— review in Riverside, California newspaper
anonymous. “Dome Theater Shows Beery in New Drama.” Santa Monica Evening Outlook, November 7, 1928. *
— review in Santa Monica, California newspaper
anonymous. “Splendid Program is Being Offered at the Dome.” Venice Evening Vanguard, November 7, 1928. *
— review in Venice, California newspaper
anonymous. “Wallace Beery in Heavy Role.” Sacramento Union, November 8, 1928. *
— “Louise Brooks is the girl, and Richard Arlen is co-featured with her in an important tramp role.” – Sacramento, California newspaper
anonymous. “Warfield: Beggars of Life.” The Argonaut, November 10, 1928. *
— very brief notice; “Based on a Jim Tully yarn of hobo life. Censored, if we remember the original correctly. Wallace Beery has the lead.” – San Francisco, California news weekly
anonymous. “Jim Tully’s Tramps as Actors.” Washington Times, November 10, 1928. *
— article in Washington D.C. newspaper
anonymous. “Louise Had Her Own Train of Tank Cars.” Washington Times, November 10, 1928. *
— brief article in Washington D.C. newspaper
K., K. T. “Asbestos.” New Orleans Times-Picayune, November 10, 1928. *
— review in New Orleans, Louisiana newspaper
Smith, Frederick James. “Sugar-Coated Literature.” Liberty, November 10, 1928. *
— “You will like Louise Brooks as the homeless girl.”
anonymous. “Beggars of Life is Rialto’s Picture.” Charleston Daily Mail, November 11, 1928. *
— article in Charleston, West Virginia newspaper
anonymous. “Beggars of Life on Tudor Screen as Sound Movie.” New Orleans Times-Picayune, November 11, 1928. *
— “Louise Brooks as the girl companion of the hoboes has splendid opportunities to display her talent as an actress, and critics are agreed that she is splendid in the role. It is the biggest role she has ever had.” – article in New Orleans, Louisiana newspaper
anonymous. “Metropolitan – Wallace Beery in Beggars of Life, With Sound.” Washington Post, November 11, 1928. *
— preview article; “No less important to the story is Louise Brooks, that slim, graceful girl who has won her way to moving picture fame by the sheer force of ability and personality.” – Washington D.C. newspaper
anonymous. “Beggars of Life Scores at New Tudor.” New Orleans Item, November 12, 1928. *
— “Vitaphone helps the story along with music that is fitting and well arranged. The Hallelujah I’m a Bum rhythm helps the story’s speed.” – review in New Orleans, Louisiana newspaper
anonymous. “Saenger’s Tudor.” New Orleans States, November 12, 1928. *
— review in New Orleans, Louisiana newspaper
anonymous. “Wallace Beery in Tully’s Yarn.” Washington Herald, November 12, 1928. *
— “Louise Brooks and Richard Arlen have prominent parts and do splendid work with them.” – Washington D.C. newspaper
anonymous. “Opening Attractions in Washington Theaters.” Washington Star, November 12, 1928. *
— “Its virtue lies chiefly in providing Wallace Beery a chance to return to a heavy dramatic role, Louise Brooks to wear masculine clothes, and Richard Arlen to subordinate his looks to his acting.” – Washington D.C. newspaper
Bahmer, W.J. “This Week in the Movies.” Pittsburgh Post Gazette, November 12, 1928. *
— “Louise Brooks is interesting, with a cold, half-insolent beauty of face and figure masking a hidden fire. It is a new Louise Brooks.” – article in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania newspaper
W., C. “Tramp Story of Tully Filmed.” Washington Times, November 12, 1928. *
— review in Washington D.C. newspaper
Gillaspey, A. Fulton. “Murray Stars in Warfield Stage Review.” San Francisco Bulletin, November 12, 1928. *
— ” . . . the picture while not beautiful is realistic. Louise Brooks and Richard Arlen do well in the leading roles.” – San Francisco, California newspaper
Hanifin, Ada. “Charlie Murray Hit at Warfield.” San Francisco Examiner, November 12, 1928. *
— “Louise Brooks, as the girl who murdered her guardian to save herself, and turns hobo to escape the vengeance of the law, is an actress who will bear watching. She has a vivid personality. Her attempts to walk like her ‘adopted’ pal, Jim, so her masculine disguise will not be discovered: her emotional reactions finely restrained as she lies beneath the stars with a haystack as a roof, and knows ‘that all she wants is peace and a home,’ give her opportunity to disclose some very effective acting in a subtle manner.” – San Francisco, California newspaper
Johnson, Fred. “Charlie Murray Warfield Comic.” San Francisco Call and Post, November 12, 1928. *
— “Louise Brooks is a convincing boy tramp up to a certain point.” – San Francisco, California newspaper
P., J. “Charlie Murray in Warfield ‘Idea’.” San Francisco News, November 12, 1928. *
— “Louise Brooks, whose acting is considerably better.” – San Francisco, California newspaper
Ransom, C. “Offerings at the Local Theaters.” Washington Post, November 12, 1928. *
— “Richard Arlen and Louise Brooks offer some sweetly romantic artistry as a young vagabond couple whose adventures on joining a rough band of wayfarers form the current of events.” – Washington D.C. newspaper
anonymous. “Secluded Border Region Screens Hobo Jungle.” Appleton Post-Cresent, November 13, 1928. *
— article in Appleton, Wisconsin newspaper
anonymous. “Hobo Romance With Beery.” Pittsburgh Post Gazette, November 13, 1928. *
— review in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania newspaper
anonymous. “The Aldine.” Pittsburgh Press, November 13, 1928. *
— review in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania newspaper
anonymous. “Beggars of Life is Photoplay at Rialto.” Charleston Gazette, November 16, 1928. *
— article in Charleston, West Virginia newspaper
anonymous. “Beery Enacts Star Role at Rialto.” Charleston Daily Mail, November 17, 1928. *
— article in Charleston, West Virginia newspaper
anonymous. “Beggars of Life, avec Wallace Berry au Loew’s, pendant la semaine prochaine.” La Patrie, November 17, 1928. (Canada) *
— review in French-language Montreal, Canada newspaper
anonymous. “At Loew’s Theaters.” Montreal Daily Star, November 17, 1928. (Canada) *
— review in Montreal, Canada weekly newspaper
anonymous. “Hobo Life as Jim Tully Sees It, Now on Screen.” Stockton Daily Record, November 17, 1928. *
— brief article with still in Stockton, California newspaper
Atkinson, G. A. “London Shows.” Daily Express, November 19, 1928. (England) *
— “a powerful adaption of Jim Tully’s story of Hobohemia” – short review in London newspaper
anonymous. “Beggars of Life and Whirl of Splendor at Loews Most Attractive.” Montreal Daily Star, November 19, 1928. *
— review in Montreal, Canada newspaper
anonymous. “Beggars of Life Pleases at Loews.” Montreal Gazette, November 19, 1928. (Canada) *
— review in Montreal, Canada newspaper
A., E. W. “Whirl of Splendor, Fine Dance Number, In Loew’s Feature.” Montreal Herald, November 19, 1928. (Canada) *
— review in Montreal, Canada newspaper
anonymous. “Beggers of Life Is Interesting Hobo Story.” Albany Evening News, November 20, 1928. *
— review in Albany, New York newspaper
anonymous. “Louise Brooks Does Changling Act in Beggars of Life.” Salinas Index Journal, November 22, 1928. *
— article in Salinas, California newspaper
C., J. O. “Palace.” Memphis Commercial Appeal, November 27, 1928. *
— “Louise Brooks essays the difficult role of a girl tramop escaping from police who seek her for murder. She is a star of no little amount of personality – the sort she would have to have to enable her to carry the type of role she has in this picture through successfully and that she does. If her career in pictures is further enhanced through her work in Beggars of Life, it will not be underserved.” – review in Memphis, Tennessee newspaper
F., J. L. “Beggars of Life Holds Interest.” Memphis Press Scimitar, November 27, 1928. *
— short review in Memphis, Tennessee newspaper
anonymous. “Girl Hobo is Heroine in Tully Film at California.” San Jose Mercury Herald, November 28, 1928. *
— “Lovely Louise Brooks plays the role of a fugitive from justice.” – San Jose, California newspaper
anonymous. “Realism Marks Tully Picture at California.” San Diego Sun, December 1, 1928. *
— “Louise Brooks and Richard Arlen provide a poignant note of romance with their tramp-land love affair, and the whole yarn is most effectively pictured. It’s strong stuff, but it’s good for what ails most of us.” – article in San Diego, California newspaper
J., T. T. “Beery Star of Tully Picture.” San Diego Sun, December 1, 1928. *
— “Beggars of Life, while perhaps not a great film, is much better than the average program picture.” – review in San Diego, California newspaper
anonymous. “Wallace Beery Puts on Crown of Hobohemia.” San Diego Union, December 2, 1928. *
— “Accompanied by a synchronized musical score of more than average excellence, the picture provides an hour and a half of film entertainment radically out of line with the general run of cinema drama. it is pungent, powerful, appealing, masterfully directed and superbly acted.” – review in San Diego, California newspaper
anonymous. “New Offerings in Theaters.” Syracuse Post-Standard, December 3, 1928. *
— review in Syracuse, New York newspaper
W., D. “Gay Act, Good Picture at Oakland.” Oakland Post Enquirer, December 3, 1928. *
— review; “Louise Brooks gives a wonderful characterization of a girl fugitive.” – review in Oakland, California newspaper
anonymous. “Amusements.” Calgary Daily Herald, December 8, 1928. (Canada) *
— brief article in Calgary, Alberta newspaper
anonymous. “Wallace Beery Has New Role in Film at U.C.” Berkeley Daily Gazette, December 13, 1928. *
— “Heading the supporting cast are Louise Brooks and Richard Arlen.” – Berkeley, California newspaper
D., B. A. “Beggars of Life is Pleasing at Liberty.” Zanesville Signal , December 13, 1928. *
— “Miss Brooks does good work.” – review in Zanesville, Ohio newspaper
anonymous. “Tramp’s Life at the Palace.” Wichita Beacon, December 16, 1928. *
— article in Wichita, Kansas newspaper
anonymous. “Jungle Scene Background for Film of Tramps.” San Mateo Times, December 19, 1928. *
— brief article in San Mateo, California newspaper
anonymous. “Beggars of Life Will Be Shown Last Times Tonight.” Sheboygan Press, December 20, 1928. *
— article in Sheboygan, Wisconsin newspaper
Orndorff, Marguerite. “Beggars of Life.” Educational Screen, January 1929. *
— “A hobo tale by Jim Tully, who, one supposes, is eminently fitted by experience to write hobo tales. So far as the ordinary observer is qualified to judge, the hobo part of the story is authentic. It is in the other aspects of his plot that the robust Mr. Tully runs a little awry. His casual young murderess and the circumstances surrounding the murder are outside the range of the probable, as anyone who reads the papers could tell Mr. Tully. Wallace Beery is as good as he can be, playing the leader of the tramps, and Richard Arlen is pleasing as the young tramp, temporarily one feels sure down on his luck. But Louise Brooks just doesn’t belong with that crowd not even temporarily.” – capsule review in trade journal
anonymous. “Mendigos de Vida.” Mensajero Paramount, January, 1929. *
— four page illustrated article in Spanish-language Paramount house organ
anonymous. “Picture Parade.” Motion Picture, January, 1929. *
— capsule review with scene still; “Louise Brooks is cute in her little trousers, and not so cute in the final feminine sun bonnet. . . . This is a rough, romantic, tender, dramatic, and very good indeed.”
Lusk, Norbert. “The Screen in Review: The Heart of a Hobo.” Picture-Play, January, 1929. *
— capsule review; “Its salient features are excellent acting on the part of Mr. Beery, Richard Arlen and Louise Brooks . . . .”
anonymous. “Wallace Beery in Riviera Film.” Syracuse Herald, January 20, 1929. *
— article about second run in Syracuse, New York newspaper
anonymous. “The Soisson.” Daily Courier, January 21, 1929. *
— article in Connellsville, Pennsylvania newspaper
anonymous. “At Majestic.” Lima News, January 27, 1929. *
— “Louise Brooks and Richard Arlen have the two romantic roles.” – article in Lima, Ohio newspaper
anonymous. “Granada.” Spokesman Review, February 16, 1929. *
— article in Spokane, Washington newspaper
anonymous. “Wallace Beery in First Sound Film.” Eugene Guard, February 16, 1929. *
— article in Eugene, Oregon newspaper
anonymous. “Granada.” Morning Register, February 17, 1929. *
— article in Eugene, Oregon newspaper
anonymous. “The Movies.” Lewistown Sentinel, March 2, 1929.* (United States)
— brief review in Lewistown, Pennsylvania newspaper
anonymous. “Moving Pictures.” Daily Gleaner, March 4, 1929. (Jamaica) *
— brief article Kingston, Jamaica newspaper
anonymous. “At the Strand.” Tulsa Tribune, March 10, 1929. *
— review in Tulsa, Oklahoma newspaper
anonymous. “Wallace Beery, Rex on Sunday, in Noted Drama.” Bakersfield Californian, March 16, 1929. *
— article in Bakersfield, California newspaper
anonymous. “New Silent Film Stars Beery at Wigham.” Reno Gazette, March 16, 1929. *
— brief article in Reno, Nevada newspaper
anonymous. “Cinematographos.” O Estado de S. Paulo, March 27, 1929. (Brazil) *
— review in San Paulo newspaper
anonymous. “The Pictures.” Observer, September 3, 1927. (England) *
— article in London newspaper
anonymous. “BEGGARS OF LIFE: Realistic Film at the Capitol.” Canberra Times , April 3, 1929. (Australia) *
— “One of the best pictures released for many months . . . Altogether, a picture well worth seeing.” – review in Canberra newspaper
anonymous. “Secrets of Hobohemia Torn Open in Picture.” Salinas Index Journal, April 18, 1929. *
— article in Salinas, California newspaper
anonymous. “Star Theater.” The Afro American, May 4, 1929. *
— brief write-up in Baltimore, Maryland newspaper
anonymous. Daily Northwestern, May 4, 1929. *
— brief article in Oshkosh, Wisconsin newspaper
anonymous. “Louise Brooks Stars in Film.” News-Palladium, May 12, 1929. *
— article in Benton Harbor, Michigan newspaper
anonymous. “Beggars of Life, Stars Wallace Beery At Liberty Theater.” Hartford Courant, May 12, 1929. (United States)
— article in Hartford, Conneticut newspaper
anonymous. “Pick of Pictures.” Picturegoer, June, 1929. (England) *
— “The somber power of this film, with gleams of humor, will grip you.” – brief review
anonymous. “Art Souvenir of Richard Arlen and Louise Brooks in Beggars of Life.” Picture Show, June 20, 1929. (England) *
— two-page spread featuring pictures, with captions, from the film
L., C. A. “Selections from the New Films.” The Observer, June 23, 1929. (England) *
— brief write-up in London newspaper
anonymous. “Drama Notes.” Manchester Guardian, June 29, 1929. (England) *
— ” . . . connoisseurs will seek out Beggars of Life, a fill-blooded story by the hobo-journalist, Jim Tully, with Wallace Beery and Louise Brooks in the cast.” – brief mention in article in Manchester newspaper
Garbage Man. “Picked Up in Passing.” Drumheller Mail, July 4, 1929. (Canada) *
— write-up in column in Drumheller, Alberta newspaper
Garbage Man. “Picked Up in Passing.” Drumheller Mail, July 11, 1929. (Canada) *
— write-up in column in Drumheller, Alberta newspaper
“Beggars of Life.” Mid-Week Pictorial, September 29, 1929. (England)
— illustrated story about the film
anonymous. “The Cinemas.” Cape Times, November 25, 1929. (Union of South Africa) *
— “Richard Arlen and Louise Brooks also play important roles in the story which Wiliam Welman directed.” – brief review in Cape Town newspaper
anonymous. “Les mendiants de la vie au Paramount.” L’Ouevre, December 27, 1929. (France) *
— review with accompanying scene still in Paris newspaper
anonymous. “Les Mendiants de la Vie.” Petit Parisian, December 27, 1929. (France) *
— brief write-up in Paris newspaper
Derain, Lucie. “Les Mendiants de la Vie.” Cinemagraphie Francaise, December 28, 1929. (France) *
— article in French trade journal
P.-B., R. “Les mendiants de la vie.” Le Figaro, December 29, 1929. (France) *
— “On est difficilement plus jolie que Louise Brooks; mais l’on troverait facilement, j’en suis sur, meilleure occasion de le montrer.” – review with two stills in Paris newspaper
Lenauer, Jean. “Les mendiants de la vie.” Pour Vous, January 2, 1930. (France) *
— short review with scene still
anonymous. “Presentation.” Le Courrier Cinematographique, January 4, 1930. (France) *
— review in French trade journal
Soupault, Philippe. “La Suprematie Americaine en Peril.” L’Europe nouvelle, January 4, 1930. (France) *
— discussed in a short article on American films [ reprinted in Ecrits de cinema 1918 – 1931, (Paris: Plon 1979) ]
anonymous. “The Odeon Theatre.” North China Daily News, January 9, 1930. (China) *
— article in Shanghai newspaper
Bizet, Rene. “Les mendiants de la vie.” Pour Vous, January 9, 1930. (France) *
— full page, illustrated article
Nemo. “Reviews.” Le Courrier Cinematographique, January 18, 1930. (France) *
— English-language review in French trade journal
Auriol, Jean-George. “Les mendiants de la vie.” La Revue du cinéma, February, 1930. (France) *
— “Louise Brooks a plusieurs mouvements émouvants et se debrouille bien dans son costume de garçon.”
Star, Jan. “Les Films Du Mois.” Cinèmagazine, February 1930. (France) *
— brief review
El Sol, February 9, 1930. (Spain) *
— a publicity still pictures Louise Brooks and Richard Arlen
Olivet, Rene. “On verra cette semaine a Paris.” Cinémonde, December 26, 1930. (France) *
— capsule review; ” . . . et par Louise Brooks gentile et piquante.”
Bodin, Richard Pierre. “Les mendiants de la vie.” Le Figaro, December 29 1930. (France) *
— capsule review; “On est difficilement plus jolie que Louise Brooks; mais l’on trouverait facilement, j’en suis sûr, meilleure occasion de le montrer.”
author unknown. “A View of the Great Directors.” Oakland Tribune, January 20, 1974. *
— “William Wellman, the last of our ‘men who made movies,’ directed only one film which Highham considers a great one, ‘in its way a masterpiece.’ It is Beggars of Life, a 1927 pastoral drama with Richard Arlen and Louise Brooks as fugitive lovers riding the rails.” – the film is referenced in an interview with film historian Charles Higham in Oakland, California newspaper
author unknown. “Les mendiants de la vie,” L’Avant-Scene, 1979. (France) *
— commentary on the film in the William Wellman issue of Anthologie du Cinéma, X
B., J. “Film Notes – Beggars of Life.” Pacific Film Archive, March 29, 1981. *
— brief program notes from the PFA Film Series entitled “The American Films of Louise Brooks” – Berkeley, California
author unknown. City Limits, September, 1982. (England)
— review
Robinson, David. “Cinema The immortal rediscovery.” London Times, September 24, 1982. (England) *
— article in London, England newspaper
French, Philip. “Woody in Midsummer Mood.” The Observer, September 26, 1982. (England) *
— write-up within article in London newspaper
Jenkins, Steve. Monthly Film Bulletin, December, 1982. (England) *
— one and one-half page illustrated critique; publication of the British Film Institute, London
anonymous. “Film Notes – Beggars of Life.” Pacific Film Archive, October 13, 1985. *
— brief program notes from the PFA Film Series “William Wellman Directs” – Berkeley, California
Vermilye, Jerry. The Films of the Twenties. Secaucus, New Jersey: Citadel Press, 1985. *
— includes a chapter on the film
Minutolo, Dario. “Film americani muti.” Immagine, nr. 1, Winter 1986. (Italy)
— article
anonymous. “Film Notes – Beggars of Life.” Pacific Film Archive, January 14, 1988. *
— brief program notes from the PFA Film Series entitled “International Children’s Film Festival” – Berkeley, California (follow this link to access text)
Carr, Jay. “A Collector’s Item.” Boston Globe, April 30, 1989. *
— capsule review; ” . . . Louise Brooks’ best American film before she went to Germany” – Boston, Massachusetts newspaper
Rapp, Bernard and Lamy, Jean Claude (editors). Dictionnaire des films. Paris: Larousse, 1995. *
— includes a brief entry (cast, credits and plot) by J. P.-B. (Jean-Pierre Bleys)
Rubin, Sam. “Rubin’s Classic Clinic 5 from Grapevine.” Classic Images, May 1998.
— review of video release
Min, Eungjun. Reading the Homeless: The Media’s Image of Homeless Culture. Westport, Connecticut: Praeger Publishers, 1999. *
— Brooks’ role in Beggars of Life is referenced
anonymous. “Beggars of Life.” TV Guide Online, circa 2001. *
— review on entertainment website; “An impressive early part-talkie . . . .”
Koehler, Robert. “Contract players: Par stable touted an eclectic array of talent.” Variety, July 15, 2002. *
— “Like Howard Hawks, Wellman was a reliable studio director who could operate in virtually every genre. As a nearly unproven director, he helped the studio claim the first best picture Oscar with Wings (1927). His Louise Brooks-starring Beggars of Life (1928) is technically considered the studio’s first sound film, though it wasn’t originally designed as a talkie.”