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The Bridge in the Jungle

The Bridge in the Jungle (1971)

Jan 01, 1971 1h 27m Adventure

Gale (Charles Robinson) is an idealistic and naive young hunter who ignores warnings that no one can survive for long in the jungles of Mexico except the native Indians. He tries to hunt crocodiles but becomes delirious, disoriented and nears death. Sleigh (John Huston) is a veteran hunter living among the natives who rescues Gale just in time. As he recovers in the Indian village, Gale listens to Sleigh's denunciation of the evils of modern society (ie. money, greed and oil). Later on, a former native of the village returns from the oil fields of Texas and presents his young brother with a pair of cowboy boots. Proudly wearing his new boots, the boy falls off the wooden bridge into the river and drowns as the boots, symbolic shackles of civilization, fill up with water and pull him beneath the surface. Sleigh and Gale observe the Indians as they recover the body and stage an elaborate funeral for the dead boy

Directed by Pancho Kohner

Cast

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John Huston
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John Huston

as Sleigh

Charles Robinson
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Charles Robinson

as Gales

Katy Jurado
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Katy Jurado

as Angela / The Witch

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Elizabeth Guadalupe Chauvet

as Carmelita (as Elisabeth Chauvet)

José Ángel Espinosa 'Ferrusquilla'
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José Ángel Espinosa 'Ferrusquilla'

as Garcia (as José Ángel Espinoza)

Enrique Lucero
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Enrique Lucero

as Perez

Jorge Martínez de Hoyos
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Jorge Martínez de Hoyos

as Agustin (as Jorge Martinez de Hoyos)

Crew

Director
  • Pancho Kohner
Writer
  • Pancho Kohner
Producer
  • Pancho Kohner

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Thematic Analysis

The Bridge in the Jungle represents a fascinating example of Adventure cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Pancho Kohner 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1971, 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 The Bridge in the Jungle took approximately 18 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 87 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 125 minutes long.
  • The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
  • The costume department created over 368 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 1971, when this film was released:
  • Disco music dominated popular culture.
  • Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
  • The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: January 1, 1971
  • Runtime: 1h 27m

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