High Voltage

High Voltage is a classic black-and-white American silent film from 1929. Directed by Howard Higgin, the film stars William Boyd, Carole Lombard, and Owen Moore. The movie is often seen as a steppingstone in Lombard's career, one of her initial films that helped establish her as a notable face in Hollywood. Not to mention, it was during the transition in Hollywood from silent films to 'talkies', making High Voltage a unique piece of cinematic history.

Set mostly in a confined space, High Voltage deals with suspense, drama, and human behavior. The film narrates the story of a set of strangers who find themselves stuck in a bus during a snowstorm, which creates a distinctive atmosphere serving as the backdrop for the movie. The plot finds its strength in the interactions and relationships that develop among the diverse array of characters who are thrown together in a close-quarters situation, and their struggle to survive.

The narrative begins when a bus, traveling through the Sierra Nevada Mountains in the midst of winter, breaks down, stranding the passengers and crew. The group includes the bus driver, played by William Boyd, a pickpocket ingeniously portrayed by Carole Lombard, a weakling millionaire portrayed by Owen Moore, and a few other characters. As they attempt to brave the harsh conditions of the storm together, they are forced into a rundown, deserted church for shelter.

The story advances as the passengers and their differences lead the plot into a dimensional study of characters. It presents us with a rich study of human behavior, personality clash, and the complexity of relationships, particularly when survival becomes primary. The film explores multiple themes and layers of human existence, pathos and comedy, morality, and the question of what it means to be a criminal.

William Boyd as the brusque and resourceful bus driver shines in his role, serving as an unofficial leader amidst the threat of impending doom. He brings forth a sense of stubborn grit in his character and the necessary fast-thinking survival tactics the situations demand.

Carole Lombard's portrayal of a captured pickpocket on the run from law enforcement serves as one of the primary highlights of High Voltage. Her subtle expressions coupled with the wit and finesse of her character make for an impressive performance. Her transformation from being viewed as an outcast to one of the group's vital members is an engaging part of the storyline. Lombard's charm and depth of acting skills are on full display.

Owen Moore, as the weakling millionaire, also gives a remarkable performance. His character development is impressive as his experiences with the group challenge his views, forcing him to reevaluate himself and his life choices.

Despite being filmed during the onset of sound in movies, High Voltage manages to maintain the strong and expressive silent film tradition, relying largely on visual storytelling and body language. The cinematography captures the bleakness of the surroundings in stark contrasts and shadowy imagery, enhancing the mood and theme of the film. The special effects that denote the snowstorm are also worth noting.

In essence, High Voltage, is a film that manages to beautifully illustrate the intense drama of survival, human instinct, fear, and hope, thereby reflecting the inevitable ups and downs, much like the way electric current fluctuates. It showcases the survival instincts of individuals when faced with adverse circumstances and how necessities can soften personal prejudices. Thus, the film remotely whispers the resonant question about the nature of humanity – are we innately good or are we forced to be?

High Voltage is significant not only because of its narrative and performances but because of its place in the timeline of cinema history, a fascinating mix of the silent era ethos and the budding dawn of the 'talkies'. For anyone interested in classic cinema or early Hollywood, High Voltage serves as a compelling study and an engaging cinematic experience.