Cast
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Robert Lowery
as Don Bradley
Ellen Drew
as Kay Downey
Regis Toomey
as Steve Downey
Eddie Quillan
as Willie Dinsmire
Elisha Cook Jr.
as Whitey
Ralph Dunn
as Chief Sanford
Walter Baldwin
as Uncle Sam Bates
Rose Plumer
as Aunt Pattie Bates
Virginia Sale
as Aletha Bates
Byron Foulger
as Harvey Bates
Johnny Fisher
as Hunk, Henchman
Alex Callam
as Detective Dave Lewis
Eddie Kane
as Waiter
Angelo Desfis
as Bookkeeper
Lee Phelps
as Police Dispatcher in montage (archive footage) (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- William Berke
Writer
- Maxwell Shane
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Dark Mountain examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director William Berke brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1944, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Dark Mountain took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 57 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 103 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 1834 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1944, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Dark Mountain shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Subway in the Sky, which focuses more on action than character development, Dark Mountain subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Death Goes to School and Desert Guns explore similar territory, Dark Mountain stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: September 1, 1944
- Runtime: 57m
Where to Watch
