Follow the Sun

Follow the Sun, directed by Sidney Lanfield, is a heartwarming biographical film released in 1951 that is deeply rooted in sports, more specifically the world of golf. This tribute to the indomitable spirit of athletes is wrapped up in a beautifully crafted narrative with insightful performances from Glenn Ford, Anne Baxter and Dennis O'Keefe. The movie is built around the life of Ben Hogan, the legendary golfer, showering the viewers with an inspired yet emotionally nuanced portrayal of the exploits and trials in Hogan's life.

The film starts with the talented Glenn Ford playing the role of the protagonist, Ben Hogan. Ben Hogan is a resilient caddie originating from Texas who encompasses nothing more than an ardent passion for golf and an iron will. Disregarding his impoverished background, rigid determination pushes Ben on a quest to become one of the prominent figures in professional golf. Anne Baxter, an Academy Award-winning actress, plays Valerie, Ben's wife and unwavering support system. As in the real-life romance of Ben and Valerie, Baxter's genuine performance imparts a sense of warm and steadfast companionship that bolsters Ben's rise from obscurity.

Hogan’s story evolves from his humble beginnings through his ascension in the professional circuit, leading to a pivotal point – an incident that severely challenges his physical ability and mental fortitude. This part of the film is a testament to the resilience and the comeback ability of a true sportsperson. Hogan's life is painted not only as a journey through the tumultuous world of sports, but the film also underlines his touching personal relationships that help colour and drive Hogan's narrative with sincerity.

Dennis O'Keefe, bringing an additional layer of complexity to the narrative, performs as rival golfer, Jimmy Demaret. The portrayal of Demaret induces a sense of friendly rivalry and camaraderie commonly found in competitive sports. His role provides an effective counterweight to Hogan’s journey, highlighting the contrasting approaches to the sport itself.

Follow the Sun, as a true biographical movie, grasps the viewers with its brutally honest narration on the life of a sportsman. It not only delineates the success and glamor that comes with stardom but also exposes the reality of ruthless competitive pressures and the heavy toll they enact. The movie encapsulates the enormous weight that an accident can have on a professional athlete – not only the physical pain but also the emotional toil and the journey to recovery and acceptance.

The portrayal of Ben Hogan by Glenn Ford exudes a raw and earnest commitment that resonates through the movie. He effectively embodies Hogan's quiet determination and resiliency, attributes that played an instrumental role in his return to golf following adversity. Anne Baxter's outstanding performance is the bedrock that stands at every high and low of Ben's career, making their on-screen relationship one of the movie's highlights.

Sidney Lanfield, the director, does a commendable job of capturing the raw emotion and tension present in both the sports and personal life of Hogan. With Ford and Baxter spearheading the plot and the drama, Lanfield successfully ensures that the viewers witness the genuine struggle and triumph of an individual’s life. The direction is sober and hard-hitting, with perfectly timed dialogues and greatly structured scenes that retain the authenticity of the biographical events.

While following the exciting world of golf, Follow the Sun is not limited to viewers who are ardent fans of the sport. The inspirational focus on the themes of persistence, resilience, and the power of human spirit make it a universally engaging movie. It operates on an emotional level that's not unlike the best inspirational movies of its time, making it a breed apart.

In conclusion, Follow the Sun establishes itself as a commendable blend of sports and drama. The film is a successful portrayal of a sportsman's life that includes not only his rise to glory but also his fall and the following inspiring resurgence. Moreover, it is a beautiful depiction of love and brotherhood that makes it a must-watch for anyone looking for an inspiring and enjoyable watch.