Barbary Coast

Barbary Coast, released in 1935, emerges from the hands of directors Howard Hawks and William Wyler as an engaging blend of western and crime noir genres. Boasting an impressive cast that includes Miriam Hopkins, Edward G. Robinson, and Joel McCrea, the story transpires amidst the bustling chaos of the Gold Rush in 1850's San Francisco. This RKO movie, from a screenplay by Ben Hecht and Charles MacArthur, embraces the city's grim, lawless portrait during the gold fever, blending history and fiction.

At the outset, the movie presents the character of Mary Rutledge (Miriam Hopkins), a spirited woman who ventures to San Francisco intending to marry her wealthy fiancé. Fate deals a cruel blow when her betrothed, leveraging the myriad opportunities presented by the gold rush, perishes under unknown circumstances before her arrival. Finding herself deserted and penniless in a city devoid of law, Mary finds an unexpected lifeline in Louis Chamalis (Edward G. Robinson), the city's most powerful – and dangerous – man.

Edward G. Robinson masterfully brings to life the character of Chamalis, the corrupt kingpin who runs the gambling ship “The Bella Donna.” Chamalis is a manipulative, cunning yet charismatic figure who controls all the enterprises in the city with a tight fist and makes his own rules. In the wake of her misfortune, Mary becomes Lyn Belle, a cold, unfeeling roulette wheel maven in Chamalis’s gaming house. The Bella Donna becomes a microcosm of the city, showcasing both the desperation of those seeking instant wealth and the lawlessness dominating the coast.

The plot complicates with the arrival of a poetic prospector named Jim Carmichael (Joel McCrea), who dares defy Chamalis's sovereignty. Jim embodies the film's thread of honesty, idealism, and, importantly, the potential for a lawful order amid a chaos-ridden city. The nail-biting tension between desired order and prevailing chaos is a central theme of the movie.

The romantic subplot interweaves with power struggle when Mary's and Jim's paths intersect. Mary finds herself involuntarily drawn to the honest and passionate Carmichael, creating a heated conflict between her hesitant loyalty to the controlling Chamalis and her new-found feelings for Carmichael. Joel McCrea excels in the role of Jim Carmichael, managing to express his character’s strong-willed determination to bring justice without negating his authentic and soft-spoken demeanor.

The film’s creative team has artfully designed its production values to respond to the narrative’s atmospheric demand. The cinematography of Ray June and the art design by Richard Day contribute to the evocative temperament of the period, with each scene meticulously detailed to reflect the turbulences of the era. Whether it's the bustling streets filled with prospectors, the rustic interiors of the Bella Donna, or the quiet beauty of the surrounding landscapes, the imagery paints a vivid picture of the era without compromising on the authenticity of the surroundings.

Barbary Coast excels in its exploration of conflicted characters, well-paced plot, and effective use of its historical setting. The performances of the three main actors are exceptional, with their characters' interactions serving as a keen study of human nature when put under societal and personal pressure. Notably, Miriam Hopkins stands out in her transformation from a naive hopeful bride-to-be to a hardened casino worker, as she balances vulnerability and toughness to create a complex and sympathetic character. Edward G. Robinson also delivers an impressive performance, using his impressive range to create a ruthless yet intriguing antagonist.

The original score by Alfred Newman enhances the mood of the film, mixing genres to reflect changes in the storyline. The editing of Edward Curtiss ensures that the narrative flows smoothly, seamlessly connecting the scenes and maintaining the movie's rhythm.

Providing a mesmerizing blend of vibrant characters, captivating storytelling, and a challenging historical backdrop, Barbary Coast takes its viewers on a wild ride into an untamed era where lawlessness ran rampant. The film is a stunning cinematic experience, examining human characteristics, power dynamics, and the struggle for order amidst chaos while also meditating on love’s transforming ability.

In sum, Barbary Coast offers a captivating perspective on San Francisco's turbulent past, highlighted by stellar performances, thrilling sequences, and excellent production values. It’s a historical drama, a love story, and a crime thriller, all wrapped into one engaging package – a significant exhibit in Hollywood's golden era repertoire.