In Old Kentucky (1935)

In Old Kentucky Poster

Horse trainer Steve Tapley is caught between the feuding Martingale and Shattuck families. He sides with young Nancy Martingale and her grandfather Ezra, and the feud is to be resolved by a horse race between the favorites of each family. Unfortunately, the Martingale's horse, Greyboy, only runs well in mud. And it hasn't rained in a long time.

Overview
"In Old Kentucky" is a 1935 American comedy-drama movie directed by George Marshall. The 85-minute black-and-white function stars the renowned starlet and singer, Will Rogers. The film is an adaptation of a play written by James A. Herne, a successful star and playwright from New York. The movie, produced by Fox Film Corporation, also included some significant stars including Rochelle Hudson, Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, and Louis Prima.

Plot
The plot is embeded in Kentucky where Steve Tapley (Will Rogers) is indebted due to his indulging practice in alcohol and betting. He is pondering offering his horse when he fulfills Nancy Martingale (Rochelle Hudson) and right away takes a preference to her. Nevertheless, Nancy's grandfather, General Martingale, remains in deep monetary problem and His boy Bob wishes to bail the household out by weding a wealthy female. Meanwhile, Steve Tapley, although he is bad himself, uses to help the General with his monetary problems by racing his horse.

Performances
Will Rogers portrays his character, Steve Tapley, with beauty and poignancy. He effortlessly blends humor and drama in his performance of an audacious horse-racing enthusiast, making a strong performance. Rochelle Hudson also provides an excellent performance. She illustrates Nancy Martingale with grace and strength. Costs "Bojangles" Robinson was popular as a popular tap dancer and his dance sequences added an extra dimension to the movie.

Reception
"In Old Kentucky" wasn't a substantial ticket office hit but gained a moderate success. It was, however, notable in developing Will Rogers as a true Hollywood skill and is thought about by many to be a timeless horse-racing film.

Conclusion
"In Old Kentucky" is a jolly mix of funny, drama, sports (horse racing), and touches of romance embeded in a captivating countryside background. The movie's representation of a different age, paired with Rogers' personality, adds to its timeless beauty. In spite of the absence of significant industrial success, the movie has preserved its appeal through the talented efficiencies of the cast and the heartwarming story it tells.

Top Cast

  • Will Rogers (small)
    Will Rogers
    Steve Tapley
  • Dorothy Wilson (small)
    Dorothy Wilson
    Nancy Martingale
  • Russell Hardie (small)
    Russell Hardie
    Dr. Lee Andrews
  • Charles Sellon (small)
    Charles Sellon
    Ezra Martingale
  • Louise Henry (small)
    Louise Henry
    Arlene Shattuck
  • Esther Dale (small)
    Esther Dale
    Dolly Breckenridge
  • Alan Dinehart (small)
    Alan Dinehart
    Slick Doherty
  • Charles Richman
    Pole Shattuck
  • Etienne Girardot (small)
    Etienne Girardot
    Pluvius J. Aspinwall, the Rainmaker
  • John Ince (small)
    John Ince
    Sheriff
  • Bill Robinson (small)
    Bill Robinson
    Wash Jackson