Inherit the Wind

The 1988 movie Inherit the Wind is an American television drama film adaption directed by David Greene, starring Hollywood heavyweights such as Kirk Douglas, Jason Robards, and Darren McGavin. The film is a remake of the 1960 classic of the same title, which is a dramatization of the noted 1925 Scopes 'Monkey' Trial. This televisual adaptation is intended to create a sense of relevance for a contemporary audience, by retelling a pivotal point in American history.

In the movie, Kirk Douglas stars as Matthew Harrison Brady, a character based on William Jennings Bryan, a prominent American orator and politician known for his puritanical values. Following a narrative contour of a courtroom drama, the film shows Matthew Brady's return to the courtroom after his retirement to take a stand for his deep-rooted belief in creationism.

Opposing him is the equally imposing, Henry Drummond, portrayed by the brilliant Jason Robards. Drummond's character, a thinly veiled dramatization of the real-life lawyer Clarence Darrow, brings a dynamic element of conflict and counterpoint to the plot. He is seen representing a high school teacher accused of the crime of teaching evolution, which was against the law at the time.

The movie sensitively explores the civil liberties conflict between evolutionism and creationism, a topic of fiery debate even today. It sets off a clash of ideologies, with both protagonists believing they are defending what is most precious - the freedom of intellectual inquiry and religious belief.

Inherit the Wind's storyline is effectively portrayed through its characters' dramatic collisions, displaying not only the stark contrast in their ideological stances but also their personal idiosyncrasies and vulnerabilities. They are men who are flawed, human, and relatable despite their larger-than-life personas. In part, this is what makes the film so compelling.

Darren McGavin stars as the cynical, vulture-like journalist, E.K. Hornbeck, a character based on the acerbic H.L Mencken, who witnessed the actual trial and covered it extensively. With his witty jabs taking aim at both the legal system and the Bible thumping populace of the small town, his character brings a darkly humorous counterpoint to the volatile proceedings.

The film uses the performance power of its veteran cast to great advantage, giving the narrative a sense of urgency and weight. Kirk Douglas's portrayal of Brady conveys a man whose fervor is so consuming, it often clouds his better judgment. On the other hand, Robards’s Drummond embodies quiet confidence, a disarming charm, and an unwavering belief in the freedom of thought.

Inherit the Wind also evokes the torrid atmosphere of the time – the tension of the biased courtroom, the fervor of the deeply religious town's people, the oppressive heat of the American South and the volatile sentiment around the pivotal issue - all adding to the drama's intense, emotionally charged environment. This is aptly captured by the film's cinematography, enhancing the stark atmosphere of the courtroom and the stifling social climate of the period.

Inherit the Wind's strength lies in its ability to bring to life an emotionally and politically charged event from history, making it not just accessible, but poignantly relevant. Through masterly performances, it challenges the audience to not only engage with the court proceedings but also question the deeper implications of the freedom of thought and its potential to challenge the societal norms.

From a technical standpoint, the film is notably well-crafted. Director David Greene adeptly harnesses the strengths of his veteran cast and the atmospheric elements, crafting a dramatic narrative that faithfully channels the intensities of the original trial, while also making the story compelling for a modern audience.

In conclusion, the 1988 movie Inherit the Wind features sterling performances, intense courtroom drama, and engaging debate over intellectual freedom, making it an essential watch for fans of history, courtroom dramas, and dynamic character studies. This star-studded rendition eloquently balances dramatic conflicts and tasteful humor, educating the audience while also providing a riveting viewing experience.