Own the rights?
This obscure little film is one of those that you happen to catch by accident, and then you're so happy you did. I was channel surfing, and the opening credits were playing when I saw "directed by Michael "Casablanca" Curtiz." I could immediately tell this was a low budgeted affair, and the print TCM was showing was only a fair one, but, from the get-go, it grabbed my attention and held it. Released in 1937, I was surprised at the timeless dramatics this film displayed, in a very realistic manner that should appeal to most modern viewers. What easily could have become soap-opera-ish in the wrong hands, becomes a very compelling story under the direction of Curtiz and writers Norman Raine and Luci Ward. The entire cast was well chosen and performed very impressively, even star George Brent, who's usual "stiffness" actually seems appropriate in this particular tale. Josephine Hutchinson is simply wonderful in the female lead role, and Guy Kibbee is always a joy to watch. Look out for a very feisty Margaret Hamilton, looking awfully young only two years before playing the Wicked Witch in Wizard of Oz. I don't want to talk too much about the actual story, other than it being a very convincing and well handled tale of mountain folks and a daughter on trial for shooting her father. This little film truly packs a punch, and if you ever see it appear on TCM again, make sure to catch it. You'll have a treat in store.
You may report errors and omissions on this page to the IMDb database managers. They will be examined and if approved will be included in a future update. Clicking the 'Update' button will take you through a step-by-step process.
