Landslide (1937)

Landslide Poster

A landslide traps a group of actors in a small theatre in Wales. The cashier is killed, who will be next?

Title: Landslide (1937)
"Landslide", a classic film directed by Donovan Pedelty and released in 1937, is a crime drama that delves into a thrilling narrative revolving around corruption, greed, and moral conflict.

Plot
The story follows the life of a geologist, John Walker, played convincingly by Jimmy Hanley. Walker's duty is to supervise the building and construction of a roadway on a dangerous mountain terrain, which is naturally prone to landslides. Some corporate foes, wanting to benefit from the interruption of the task, mastermind a plan to undermine the road building and construction.

Eager to put a stop to their terrible intentions, John with the assistance of his faithful colleagues, including his love interest, sets out to unmask the villains. The last part of the movie is packed with suspense as they work relentlessly to stop an enormous landslide manufactured by the antagonists and, eventually, conserve the task.

Cast and Performances
The lead role of John Walker is convincingly depicted by the then-young rising star Jimmy Hanley. His character is a likable hero, committed, and courageous, whose decision to finish his job regardless of the looming danger is good.

Muriel Pavlow offers an evenly matched performance as Jane Roberts, a strong and comprehending character who supports and falls for Walker. A sequence of supporting performances from skilled actors like Dinah Sheridan and Sam Livesey efficiently complemented the lead functions, developing a complete and compelling character ensemble.

Themes and Reception
"Landslide" primarily examined the style of male versus nature and included a mix of crime and determination against challenge. It portrayed the battle of the working class against capitalist greed, which remains popular and relatable.

Regardless of its gripping story, the movie wasn't a box-office success when initially launched. Critics associated this to the rather foreseeable plot and the movie's concentrate on special results, which were somewhat unique however not necessarily convincing by 1937 standards. Nevertheless, the efficiencies had actually been applauded, especially the screen chemistry in between Hanley and Pavlow.

Conclusion
"Landslide" from 1937 is a timeless police procedural that includes a mix of love, deceit, and nerve. It provides a view into the timeless fight of labor against corruption and greed, entrenched within a suspenseful story around a complicated mountain road project. Despite its relatively low initial box-office appeal, it deserves keeping in mind that the movie effectively highlighted the nerve and resilience of its primary characters, leaving a substantial impact on audiences for many years. Its tradition continues as an example of early British noise cinema and as a testament to the long-lasting themes it portrays.

Despite the technical and commercial constraints at the time of its release, "Landslide" is worth revisiting due to its robust characters, a depiction of the resist corruption, and the heroic determination of common individuals amidst adversity.

Top Cast

  • Jimmy Hanley (small)
    Jimmy Hanley
    Jimmy Haddon
  • Dinah Sheridan (small)
    Dinah Sheridan
    Dinah Shaw
  • Jimmy Mageean
    Harry McGovan
  • Ann Cavanagh
    Lena Petrie
  • Elizabeth Inglis (small)
    Elizabeth Inglis
    Vera Grant
  • Bruno Barnabe
    Bert White