Not Everyone Suffers During a Depression

Despite the fact that The Thin Man is set during the Great Depression, when millions throughout the country are fighting for survival, many of the characters in The Thin Man know nothing of this struggle. While other Americans are stealing just to stay alive, Nick and Nora can afford to travel on a whim, spend large amounts of money on gifts and alcohol and throw lavish parties. Mimi Jorgenson, whose cash is supposedly running low, still manages to live in luxurious accommodations. Even the criminals in the movie are not foraging for food. They all have an income and are not starving; they simply want more than they already have. Meanwhile, the many people across the country who feel lucky to get a loaf of bread are completely ignored in the movie's lavish salute to wealth and extravagance.

Identity

Everyone wears a disguise...