“The Night of the Hunter”(1955): Made for Robert Mitchum
Thapson
“The Night of the Hunter” (1955) seems made for Robert Mitchum. Apparently when director Charles Laughton told the auditioning Robert Mitchum, he was looking for “a diabolical shit,” the latter immediately answered, “Present!” And so, Charles Laughton found the right man to play Harry Powell – a diabolical preacher. The preacher who is the “Hunter” in the title of this classic film-noir.
With his dominating persona, it is very unlikely anyone else could have done justice to the role. Unfortunately, “The Night of The Hunter” wasn’t received well when released in 1955. But it has won critical acclaim since then, setting a great example of classic movies utilizing unique storytelling, and special effects. In fact, difficulties making it, and its negative reception partly drove Charles Laughton to give up on making movies.
Synopsis
Ben Harper, the Money, and Harry Powell
Just before his arrest, criminal Ben Harper (Peter Graves) rushes home and hides $10,000 in stolen money. The only ones to know where it’s hidden are his children John, and Pearl Harper. And he explicitly tells them not to reveal where it is hidden, whatever the situation. While incarcerated, Ben shares a cell with Harry Powell, who promotes himself as a Reverend. But he is a common criminal, with nothing but malice in his heart. With the words “Love” and “Hate” tattooed on his fingers, he wins over gullible people with an act that intertwines how goodness triumphs over evil. Specially to befriend widows, robbing/murdering, them while pushing a religion-obsessed mantra.
While in jail, Harry works his magic on Ben and learns of the hidden money, and where his family lives. What could go wrong?
Harry Comes to Town
After Ben Harper’s execution, and Harry’s freedom, he makes a bee line for Ben’s family. There is a grieving widow and her children who need comforting and support. More importantly, there’s money hidden there, and Harry wants it.
After riding into the Harpers’ town, Harry starts working his charm on Willa Harper, and the folks where she works. Egged on by her employer’s wife, Willa succumbs to his charms and marries him. But the children are skeptical, and remember the oath they kept with dad. However, Pearl is cracking. Trouble is, how can Harry get it out of them?
This is where things get interesting as Harry engages in a battle of nerves with the children. Who wins out? Does Harry find the money? You need to watch the movie for the answer, and appreciate what makes this movie such a thriller.
Main Cast
Robert Mitchum as Harry Powell
Even ordinarily, Robert Mitchum’s mere presence is dominating and ominous making him a perfect choice for this role.
Shelley Winters as Willa Harper
Typecast in Hollywood to playing women of ill-repute, Oscar winner Shelley Winters also played some good supporting roles, and this one of one them with a vulnerability.
Lillian Gish as Rachel Cooper
It is reputed that silent movie star Lillian Gish came out of semi-retirement to play this role on Laughton’s insistence.
Billy Chapin and Sally Jane Bruce as John, and Pearl Harper
This was the second of only two roles Sally played as an actor. She abandoned show business and went to become an educator – something she still does. Maybe the credit goes to the director, but she comes off surprisingly natural as a strong, yet susceptible.
Billy Chapin did pursue more acting roles, but apparently fell on hard times as opportunities dried up due to his addictions. A pity, as I feel he does a great job as John in the movie.
My Take
The Night of The Hunter is a portrayal of how evil can come in the guise of goodness. Moreover, the ease with which a sweet-talking person mixing it up good old religious fervor can so easily convince people over is frightening to say the least. There are at least three instances of how especially women fall prey to con artists.
The use of lighting, shadow, song, and lapses of silence are brilliantly used by Laughton. While some improbable, the symbolism is definitely creepy. An air of helpless vulnerability in the face of relentless evil makes for a thoroughly dark, suspenseful movie that pulls you and doesn’t let go till the end.
Interesting Trivia
The movie is based on the 1953 novel of the same name by David Grubb that chronicled the real-life case of Dutch-born American serial killer Harry Powers.
Charles originally wanted Gary Cooper to play Harry Powell, who felt it could detrimental to his career and image, and turned it down.
Stephen King is on record for praising this movie for being one of the scariest out there.
Roger Ebert lists the movie among his list of “Great Movies.”
YouTube / Rotten Tomatoes Classic Trailers
Final Words
Along with the disturbing story, what makes “The Night of the Hunter” an engaging watch is the way the story unfolds. The suspense is taught right until the dramatic conclusion. The lighting, cinematography, visual effects, and haunting music are advanced for its time.
Finally, the character of Harry Powell is exceptionally disturbing. He’s not just a common criminal, but seems to have a sadistic moralistic streak too. While we are not told about his childhood, there’s definitely something afoot there that’s turned him into such a bizarre character.
Needless to say, this film is unsuitable for minors. While it does have some errors, they pale in comparison to the brilliant overall production. As a fan, seeing a young Peter Graves playing Ben Harper, early in his career was a bonus for me.
We’ll check out another movie soon. Your feedback is welcome!
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