Soggy Bottom, U.S.A. (1981)

Soggy Bottom, U.S.A. Poster

In a small Southern town, the local sheriff tries to keep everything peaceful and under control.

Introduction
"Soggy Bottom, U.S.A". is a 1981 comedy film directed by Ted Flicker and starring Ruth Buzzi, Ben Johnson, Dub Taylor, and other significant character actors. It is set in a little Southern town called Soggy Bottom and happens during the Great Depression. The movie is an adaptation of the play "Crab Orchard" by F. Gwynplaine MacIntyre and is frequently described as such, but the real title of the movie is "Soggy Bottom, U.S.A". This easy going funny showcases the lives of the town's homeowners as they navigate through numerous ups and downs in their lives, with humor and beauty.

Plot Summary
The film opens by presenting the mayor of Soggy Bottom, Captain Quince (Ben Johnson), who is likewise the regional judge, paper editor, and mortician. He is extremely concerned about the town's economy during the Depression period and is desperately trying to find various schemes to enhance the town's financial resources.

The story focuses on the colorful characters of the town who attempt to browse their lives with hilarity and hope. This consists of a trio of moonshiners, Tunk (R.G. Armstrong), C.J. (Dub Taylor), and Ottis (John Chappell), who cleverly avert the authorities while attempting to support their families with their prohibited company. In addition, the film portrays different other characters like the town's gossipy telephone operator, Iola (Ruth Buzzi), a sharp-tongued hairdresser named Delores (Bibi Osterwald), and lovable elderly couple, Nellie and Roscoe (Chill Wills and Jay Robinson).

The town's excitement starts when Captain Quince reveals the arrival of previous President Calvin Coolidge for a dedication ceremony of a new bridge that will put Soggy Bottom on the map. A chain of unfortunate occasions unfolds when they discover that the bridge is, in truth, an irrelevant footbridge in an overload, and likewise understand that the person they thought was Coolidge is an imposter (played by Christopher Smith). Regardless, the town's residents come together to celebrate this anticlimax with a grand party in true Soggy Bottom spirit.

At the same time, Captain Quince has actually been examining the strange case of who is accountable for the counterfeited moonshine. He cunningly finds that the moonshiners are actually his good friends and neighbors, and designs a strategy to let them understand he's mindful of their transactions. Rather of turning them in, Quince orchestrates a creative plan that requires the moonshiners to abandon their illegal operations. As a result, Soggy Bottom's economy makes a turnaround, and the town appears to have a brighter future.

Reception
"Soggy Bottom, U.S.A". gotten blended evaluations from critics, with some appreciating the wit and charm of the characters, while others critiqued the movie for its simplicity and absence of depth. The movie's humor and silliness have a particular appeal, however it did not make a significant impact on package workplace.

Despite its drawbacks, the film boasts a gifted cast that effectively portrays the eccentric and capitivating characters that populate the town of Soggy Bottom. The movie also supplies a subtle commentary on community worths and showcases how people can come together even during difficult times.

Conclusion
In conclusion, "Soggy Bottom, U.S.A". is an easy going comedy that tells the charming story of a small Southern town throughout the Great Depression. The film's heartfelt message about neighborhood and strength is improved by a gifted ensemble cast and flashes of humor. Though not a cinematic work of art nor a box office hit, "Soggy Bottom, U.S.A". is an amusing piece of life that could bring a smile to audiences who value an easy and heartwarming tale of relationship and perseverance.

Top Cast

  • Ben Johnson (small)
    Ben Johnson
    Isum Gorch
  • Don Johnson (small)
    Don Johnson
    Jacob Gorch
  • P.J. Soles (small)
    P.J. Soles
    Sharlene
  • Jack Elam (small)
    Jack Elam
    Troscliar Boudreaux
  • Brion James
    Defalice
  • Dub Taylor (small)
    Dub Taylor
    Cottonmouth Gorch
  • Ann Wedgeworth (small)
    Ann Wedgeworth
    Dusty Wheeler
  • Lois Nettleton (small)
    Lois Nettleton
    Molly
  • Anthony Zerbe (small)
    Anthony Zerbe
    Morgan
  • Earl Boen (small)
    Earl Boen
    Owen
  • Hank Worden (small)
    Hank Worden
    Old Geezer