Steamboat Round the Bend (1935)

Steamboat Round the Bend Poster

A Louisiana con man enters his steamboat into a winner-take-all race with a rival while trying to find a witness to free his nephew, about to be hanged for murder.

Film Overview
"Steamboat Round the Bend" is a 1935 American funny movie directed by John Ford and produced by Fox Film Corporation. The movie includes Will Rogers in his penultimate function in movie alongside starlet Anne Shirley. Based upon the book of the very same name by Ben Lucien Burman, this timeless movie uses a mix of humor and drama from America's heartland throughout the Steamboat Era.

Setting and Characters
The film's story unfolds along the Mississippi River during the height of the steamboat age around the turn of the 20th century. Will Rogers plays the character of Doctor John Pearly, a medical brew vendor and steamboat captain. Anne Shirley depicted Fleety Belle, the love interest of Pearly's nephew Duke, played by John McGuire. Famous actors Eugene Pallette and Irvin S. Cobb likewise graced the movie, providing unforgettable efficiencies.

Plot Summary
Doctor John Pearly is eager to win back the title of fastest steamboat on the Mississippi, which he once held. However, his plans take an extreme turn when he discovers that his nephew Duke has actually been implicated of killing a guy who dishonored Duke's sweetheart, Fleety Belle. Duke is consequently convicted and sentenced to be hanged. Determined to save his nephew, Pearly sets off to discover a stock character known as "New Moses", the only witness who can attest to Duke's innocence.

Dispute and Resolution
In his quest to conserve Duke, Pearly purchases a rundown steamboat called 'Claremore Queen' and gets in a steamboat race, hoping to utilize the earnings towards Duke's defense. He also tries to offer his brew during his journey to raise sufficient cash to buy off the actual winner of the steamboat race.

On the other hand, Pearly and his team continue to look for New Moses, facing numerous misadventures and funny circumstances along the method. The movie's climax gets here with the steamboat race; the 'Claremore Queen' unexpectedly wins, offering Pearly the benefit cash. Simultaneously, they discover New Moses and bring him to court just in time to save Duke from being hanged.

The Film's Impact
"Steamboat Round the Bend" stands out as one of the last films of Will Rogers, who passed away in an airplane crash shortly after principal photography was completed. The film holds significant historical sentiment with Rogers' fans. His performance as Doctor John Pearly is thought about one of the finest in his profession, representing his distinctively all-American comic design, local wisdom, and remarkable screen presence.

This film is also significant for its outstanding performances by the supporting cast and the effective adaptation of Burman's novel. It offers a sentimental journey back to the charming steamboat age, showcasing the magnificence of the Mississippi River, the vibrancy of riverside neighborhoods, and the racing steamboats' thrilling spectacle.

Conclusion
In general, "Steamboat Round the Bend" delivers a delightful mix of comedy, drama, and historical context, showing John Ford's skillful storytelling. With Will Rogers' charming lead, the wacky charm of other characters, and a gripping story, the movie leaves an enduring impression. It serves not only as an amusing flick however also as a cultural and historic file of an interesting duration in American history.

Top Cast

  • Will Rogers (small)
    Will Rogers
    Doctor John Pearly
  • Anne Shirley (small)
    Anne Shirley
    Fleety Belle
  • Irvin S. Cobb (small)
    Irvin S. Cobb
    Captain Eli
  • Eugene Pallette (small)
    Eugene Pallette
    Sheriff Rufe Jeffers
  • John McGuire (small)
    John McGuire
    Duke
  • Berton Churchill (small)
    Berton Churchill
    New Moses
  • Francis Ford (small)
    Francis Ford
    Efe
  • Roger Imhof (small)
    Roger Imhof
    Pappy
  • Raymond Hatton (small)
    Raymond Hatton
    Matt Abel
  • Hobart Bosworth (small)
    Hobart Bosworth
    Chaplain
  • Stepin Fetchit (small)
    Stepin Fetchit
    Jonah