Overview"The Dark Horse" is a black-and-white political comedy-drama movie released in 1932, during the height of the Great Depression. Directed by Alfred E. Green and featuring actors like Warren William, Bette Davis, and Guy Kibbee, the motion picture uses a satirical view of political machinations. As a pre-code movie, it explores themes with less limitations than motion pictures that follow the imposition of the Hollywood Production Code in 1934.
Plot SummaryThe story of "The Dark Horse" is set versus the backdrop of a gubernatorial election. The movie's key figure is Zachary Hicks, played by Guy Kibbee, who is an unwitting prospect for guv chosen by a group of crafty political operatives. Hicks is captivating but ultimately clueless, a mere pawn in a political video game, and is chosen because he can be quickly controlled, making him what is commonly referred to as a 'dark horse' candidate.
Warren William plays Hal Blake, a charming yet wise political campaign manager with a slightly tarnished reputation due to past indiscretions. In spite of his defects, Blake is hired to manage Hicks' project due to the fact that of his knowledge and ability to turn underdogs into winners. Blake, familiar with Hicks' minimal understanding of politics and vulnerability to public analysis, sets out to groom Hicks into a tasty prospect for governor.
Bette Davis' role as Kay Russell is that of a smart and resourceful secretary who is likewise Blake's love interest. In spite of the socially restrictive period, her character displays independence and savvy, contributing substantially to the campaign's technique and offering a subtle critique of gender roles throughout the anxiety era. Russell embodies the spirit of a lady who can play in the male-dominated world of politics.
The movie is filled with comedic minutes and biting commentary on the political process. As Blake endeavors to refine Hicks' public image and prepare him for disputes, he teaches him how to dodge challenging questions with non-committal responses and win individuals over with charm. This shows a cynicism about the control of political figures and the ignorance of the typical citizen, as Hicks' opponents are similarly flawed and driven by self-interest rather than civil service.
Styles and Social Commentary"The Dark Horse" offers a review of the electoral procedure, using a lens through which to view the shallow aspects of political campaigns. It suggests that the qualifications for leadership frequently become secondary to a prospect's public image which elections can be swayed by appeal and rhetoric rather than compound.
The political satire extends to encapsulating the influence of advisers and project managers, who in many cases are indicated to be the genuine power behind the throne, subtly forming policy and public perception. The portrayal of both Hicks and Blake mentions the corruptibility and manipulative nature of the political machine.
Cinematography and StyleThe movie's cinematography and directing are typical for the early 1930s, with an emphasis on discussion and front-and-center character interactions. Green's direction opts for simple storytelling, using the efficiencies of his actors to drive home the comical and satirical elements of the film.
Legacy and ImpactRegardless of not being widely remembered today, "The Dark Horse" contributed to the category of political satire in American movie theater. It prepared for future political comedies and supplied audiences of its time with a funny yet important point of view on the elections that resonated with their real-world experiences of political projects. Additionally, it offered early profession exposure to Bette Davis, who would go on to turn into one of Hollywood's a lot of well-known actresses. The film remains an intriguing historic artifact showing the mindsets and concerns of its time.
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