The Devil at 4 O'Clock (1961)

Intro
"The Devil at 4 O'Clock" is a 1961 American adventure disaster film, directed by Mervyn LeRoy as well as starring Spencer Tracy and also Frank Sinatra. The film is set on a remote South Pacific island as well as informs the story of a town threatened by an active volcano, while three convicts as well as a priest interact to conserve the youngsters from an upcoming disaster.

Story Synopsis
The movie begins as Father Doonan (Spencer Tracy), an aging and embittered priest, is relieved of his responsibilities on the remote island of Talua. His substitute, Father Perreau (Jean-Pierre Aumont), gets here on the exact same flight as three convicted crooks-- Harry (Frank Sinatra), Marcel (Gregoire Aslan), and also Charlie (Bernie Hamilton)-- that are being transferred to an additional prison. Father Doonan thinks his failure has actually been due to his failure to construct a medical facility and also lead his parish.

When the island's volcano-- called the Devil at 4 O'Clock-- begins rumbling ominously, the rest of the world continues to be ignorant of the threat it positions. The French governor rejects the risk as well as instead concentrates on his island's Carnival prep work. At The Same Time, Father Doonan inhabits himself with the care of several leper youngsters, who have actually been left in his hospital's incomplete and dangerous wing.

Noticing the urgency of the scenario, Father Doonan hesitantly enlists the assistance of the 3 convicts to rescue the leper youngsters. Harry, Marcel, and Charlie each have their own factors for working together-- Harry wishes to get his flexibility, Marcel looks for forgiveness for a past crime, as well as Charlie wishes to secure the kids. Together, the unlikely team sets out to guide the kids away from the threat posed by the volcano.

Volcanic Eruption and Escaping Danger
As the Devil at 4 O'Clock begins to appear, the team struggles through unfavorable conditions, consisting of the collapse of the only bridge connecting the lepers' health center to the remainder of the island. The island's community is compelled to evacuate when faced with unavoidable destruction, leaving the destiny of the kids uncertain.

Throughout the journey, the convicts and Father Doonan find out beneficial lessons concerning themselves and also each other as they navigate the treacherous volcanic landscape. Afflicted by the unbearable heat as well as burning ash, they begin to form a not likely bond. Against all odds, they take care of to arrive of the volcano, only to find that their getaway route-- a small rowboat-- is no longer appropriate for their prepared rescue.

Climactic Confrontation and Sacrifice
In a last act of anxiety, Harry climbs down the large cliff face, intent on retrieving one more watercraft to conserve the children. His daring effort eventually fails, as he sheds his grip and also plunges to his fatality in the ocean below.

Despite hardship and also personal tragedy, Father Doonan, Marcel, as well as Charlie think of a creative plan to indicate for aid. They fashion makeshift lanterns, lighting them and then descending the contrary side of the hill. Their act of courage succeeds, as a passing helicopter spots the signal as well as lands close by to rescue the team.

As the helicopter starts airlifting the kids to safety and security, Father Doonan chooses to stay behind, knowing that there isn't adequate room for every person. His final act of redemption sees him compromising his life for the security of the leper kids he has actually dedicated his life to protecting.

Conclusion
"The Devil at 4 O'Clock" is a strained as well as interesting adventure film that mixes the impressive range of a catastrophe flick with the raw emotion and also human drama of a redemption tale. With powerful efficiencies by Spencer Tracy as well as Frank Sinatra, the film explores themes of nerve, sacrifice, and the transformative power of concern.

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