Plot: What’s it about?
An old law in Hillsboro is about to make history, when a schoolteacher is arrested for teaching Darwin’s theory of evolution to his students. The teacher is Bertram Cates (Dick York) and he is a good man, but he has crossed the line this time and if the locals had their way, he’d be run out of town on a rail. It seems like everyone has turned against him, but his girlfriend Rachel (Donna Anderson) remains by his side, even though she is confused about things. Her father is the local clergy and is furious that she refuses to leave Cates, even after his countless sermons about how sinful he has become. As if the odds weren’t stacked against Cates as it was, big time lawyer Matthew Harrison Brady (Fredric March) has agreed to prosecute the case, not for money, but because he wants to see Cates convicted. But some help is en route for Cates also, as a Baltimore news reporter (Gene Kelly) has arrived and has good news, his paper has brought in a legal powerhouse of their own, Henry Drummond (Spencer Tracy). As these legal legends battle it out, which one will present the best case and in a situation like this one, does it really matter what kind of case Drummond is able to present?
This is, of course, based on the real life 1925 Scopes Monkey Trial, but names have been changed, though the events remain constant. This story has been remade several times, but this original 1960 still stands as the finest rendition, as well as one of the better films from this era and that’s a true compliment. The writing is superb and Stanley Kramer’s direction is also impressive, but this movie belongs to the performers, without a doubt. This is an actor’s dream project, as the focus remains on them to pull the film along and in this case, they’re more than up to the task. Spencer Tracy and Fredric March are excellent in the lead roles, while Gene Kelly, Dick York, Donna Anderson, Harry Morgan, and Elliot Reid all supply terrific supporting turns. The sets are natural and small in scope, while the photography is basic, but effective and of course, that means the actors remain the central force, as it should be here. If you’re interested in a movie that uses story and acting to drive home the impact, as opposed to big name stars and dazzling special effects, then Inherit the Wind is highly recommended, without any hesitation.
In a role that earned him yet another Oscar nomination for Best Actor, Spencer Tracy pulls out all the stops and turns in a stunning performance here. His verbal skills are on full showcase in Inherit the Wind, especially when he goes head to head with Fredric March, which provides some classic cinema moments. Tracy gives a powerful performance here, but is careful to stay behind the lines and never go over the top, at least not too much. This kind of role makes it easy to do so, which is all the more reason to praise Tracy’s efforts. I wouldn’t rank this as his finest work, but it is some wonderful showmanship and his Oscar nomination was most deserved, if you ask me. Other films with Tracy include Adam’s Rib, Captains Courageous, Boys Town, Pat and Mike, and The Old Man and the Sea. The cast also includes Fredric March (Tomorrow the World, The Bridges at Toko-Ri), Gene Kelly (Singin’ in the Rain, Anchors Aweigh), and of course, Dick York (Tv’s Bewitched, They Came to Cordura).
Video: How does it look?
Inherit the Wind is presented in a 1.66:1 widescreen transfer, which is not enhanced for widescreen televisions. I am not pleased that MGM continues to refuse anamorphic enhancement to 1.66:1 releases, as the image suffers and without a doubt, sales are lost over the issue. But that problem aside, this is a decent looking effort, but the film’s age sometimes catches up with it and that that’s to be expected. The print shows signs of wear, from minor specks to serious flaws, but looks clean enough, all things considered. The contrast is stark and well balanced, so detail is high and no murkiness is to be seen. I wish this was anamorphic and perhaps a little cleaned up, but in the end, this is still a more than solid treatment.
Audio: How does it sound?
The original mono soundtrack is included, which sounds good on the whole, but of course, some age signs are evident. I was unable to detect much in terms of hiss or distortion however, so there’s no serious cause for concern there. The music and songs seem in order, while sound effects are basic, very natural in scope. The main focus here is the dialogue however, and it sounds clean & crisp at all times, no problems to discuss at all. This disc also includes language options & subtitles in French and Spanish, should you need those.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes the film’s theatrical trailer.
