Kangaroo (1952)

Kangaroo Poster

In turn-of-the-century Australia, two criminals ingratiate themselves with a rancher in order to swindle him. However, the two partners become rivals for the affection of the rancher's beautiful daughter.

Introduction
"Kangaroo" is a 1952's experience film directed by Lewis Milestone and scripted by Harry Kleiner. It includes Maureen O'Hara and Peter Lawford playing the lead functions. The plot focuses on a disoriented male who discovers himself in Australia's wilderness throughout the 1880s and after that gets involved in a series of dramatic events.

Plot Overview
The film begins with a young Irishman, Richard Connor, depicted by Lawford, who gets up to find himself in the Australian wilderness with no concept how he arrived. He ends up being sheltered by an alcoholic, Trooper Len who takes him to a sheep ranch owned by gambler John W. Gamble, played by Finlay Currie. Gamble, who is desperate to go back to his native Ireland, thinks Richard's knowledge of Ireland can assist him fulfil this dream.

Gamble shares his strategies to offer his farm and taking a trip to Ireland with Richard, for which he would provide Richard an equal share. Richard befriends and ends up being romantically included with Dell McGuire, a charming lady played by O'Hara, who resides on a close-by cattle ranch. At the same time, Richard, strained by gambling debts, becomes connected with a group of criminals who start to hatch a wicked strategy versus Gamble.

Vital Turning Point
Reaching a crossroads in the story, the hooligans encourage Richard to control Gamble into believing that he was attacked, robbed, and left for dead. This hoax requires Gamble to get away, leaving whatever behind, believing his life remains in risk. However, Richard, captured in between his feelings for Dell, his financial obligation, and his commitment towards Gamble, has a hard time to keep this deceptiveness.

Climax and Conclusion
The climax of "Kangaroo" occurs when Richard decides to take a brave stand. He reveals the deceptiveness, saves Gamble from the criminals, and exposes his own participation in the plot. Injured at the same time, Richard, believing he's dying, exposes to Dell his love for her. Richard's improvement and heroism, along with his undying affection for Dell, endear him to the viewers.

Ultimately, Richard recovers and reconciles with both Dell and Gamble. Gamble forgives Richard and chooses to stay in Australia, while Dell and Richard resolve their feelings for each other. The film concludes on an enthusiastic note with Richard eagerly anticipating a future with Dell.

Final Thoughts
"Kangaroo" is an engaging daring tale set versus the fascinating backdrop of the Australian outback. It combines components of romance, treachery, and redemption making it a wholesome drama. The stellar performances of O'Hara and Lawford instill life into their characters and leave a long lasting effect on the viewers. The in-depth depiction of Australia's landscapes and the multi-layered plotline, makes "Kangaroo" a compelling movie of the 1950s.

Top Cast

  • Maureen O'Hara (small)
    Maureen O'Hara
    Dell McGuire
  • Peter Lawford (small)
    Peter Lawford
    Richard Connor
  • Richard Boone (small)
    Richard Boone
    John W. Gamble
  • Finlay Currie (small)
    Finlay Currie
    Michael McGuire
  • Chips Rafferty (small)
    Chips Rafferty
    Trooper 'Len' Leonard
  • Letty Craydon
    Kathleen, McGuire's Housekeeper
  • Charles Tingwell (small)
    Charles Tingwell
    Matt
  • Steve Dodd (small)
    Steve Dodd
    Sailor (uncredited)