Black Gold (1947)

Black Gold Poster

A Native American man trains a horse for the Kentucky Derby.

Film Overview
"Black Gold" is a 1947 American movie based on the tale of wildcat oil drilling in Oklahoma. Directed by Phil Karlson and produced by Sigmund Neufeld, the motion picture stars popular starlet and vocalist Frances Langford, British star Anthony Quinn, and Raymond Hatton. This movie exemplifies accomplishment and tragedy associated with the oil-rush age of America.

Plot Summary
The movie starts with Dan "Horse" Howley (Anthony Quinn) working for Big Jim Johnson (Tom Powers) as a horse trainer. Afterward, Charley Eagle, a Seminole Indian, and Big Jim's former partner comes and asks him to offer Horse a staff member called Johnny Ningle. This was because Charley had simply struck oil on his land, which he shared with Big Jim. Charley passes away in a mishap, leaving his share to Johnny. Huge Jim, however, forges documents to take control of Charley's share.

Main Conflict
The primary conflict ensues when Horse discovers oil on the Ningle farm, which by religion, the Indians think about cursed. Unbeknownst to Johnny, Horse decides to drill for oil on his land. When a gusher comes in, Big Jim reveals his real intentions and attempts to claim the oil for himself, using the forged files. Horse winds up mortally injured after a desperate battle with Big Jim however handles to reveal the reality.

Resolution
Before diing, Horse has the ability to provide evidence of the fraudulent plan of Big Jim. The evidence leads to Big Jim's arrest for his deceiving actions. Despite the catastrophe, Horse's brave act celebrates the victory of justice in the movie. Johnny and his spouse are finally able to declare their rightful inheritance. The movie culminates in an exhilarating scene revealing the oil fields of Oklahoma.

Final Remarks
"Black Gold" splendidly paints a picture of the historic oil rush in Oklahoma. It portrays the considerable effect and improvement of land and life due to the discovery of oil. The film likewise raises important problems about principles, greed, and the abuse of power, all underlined by a compelling narrative. Anthony Quinn's impressive efficiency as an ambitious oil hunter stays unforgettable, providing a depth of character to the storyline.

The film perfectly communicates the message of hope and justice in the middle of the turbulent circumstances. It highlights that despite the appeal of power and wealth, sincerity and truth can triumph over deceit. Through captivating efficiencies, fantastic instructions, and a strong storyline, "Black Gold" holds a mirror to the dreams, goals, and obstacles of individuals throughout the historical oil-boom age in America.

Top Cast

  • Anthony Quinn (small)
    Anthony Quinn
    Charley Eagle
  • Katherine DeMille (small)
    Katherine DeMille
    Sarah Eagle
  • 'Ducky' Louie (small)
    'Ducky' Louie
    Davey
  • Raymond Hatton (small)
    Raymond Hatton
    Bucky
  • Kane Richmond (small)
    Kane Richmond
    Stanley Lowell
  • Thurston Hall (small)
    Thurston Hall
    Colonel Caldwell
  • Moroni Olsen (small)
    Moroni Olsen
    Don Toland
  • Jonathan Hale (small)
    Jonathan Hale
    Senator Watkins
  • Darryl Hickman (small)
    Darryl Hickman
    Schoolboy
  • Charles Trowbridge (small)
    Charles Trowbridge
    Judge Wilson
  • Elyse Knox (small)
    Elyse Knox
    Ruth Frazer