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Untamed

Untamed (1940)

Jul 24, 1940 1h 23m Romance Adventure Drama

A courageous doctor braves a fierce blizzard in the Canadian wilderness to save a remote community from a deadly epidemic. He has come North to visit and ends up stealing a wife from her husband. When the epidemic hits, he and the wife begin their arduous journey.

Directed by George Archainbaud

Cast

Ray Milland
Ray Milland

Dr. William Crawford

Patricia Morison
Patricia Morison

Alverna Easter

Akim Tamiroff
Akim Tamiroff

Joe Easter

William Frawley
William Frawley

Les Woodbury

Jane Darwell
Jane Darwell

Mrs. Maggie Moriarty

J. Farrell MacDonald
J. Farrell MacDonald

Dr. Billar

Eily Malyon
Eily Malyon

Mrs. Sarah McGavity

J.M. Kerrigan
J.M. Kerrigan

Mr. Angus McGavity

Clem Bevans
Clem Bevans

"Smokey" Moseby

Esther Dale
Esther Dale

Mrs. Smith

Fay Helm
Fay Helm

Miss Olcott

Sibyl Harris
Sibyl Harris

Mrs. Dillon

Roscoe Ates
Roscoe Ates

Bert Dillon

Gertrude Hoffmann
Gertrude Hoffmann

Miss Rhine

Charles Waldron
Charles Waldron

Dr. Hughes

Crew

Director
  • George Archainbaud
Producer
  • Paul Jones

Reviews

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Untamed 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 George Archainbaud 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 1940, 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 Untamed took approximately 3 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 83 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 134 minutes long.
  • The musical score contains over 60 unique compositions.
  • The film contains approximately 1974 individual shots.
  • The costume department created over 317 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 1940, when this film was released:
  • Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular 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 Untamed shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike The Expendables, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Untamed offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like The American and The People That Time Forgot explore similar territory, Untamed stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: July 24, 1940
  • Runtime: 1h 23m

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