Tall Tales and Legends - John Henry

Tall Tales and Legends - John Henry is a mesmerizing and heartwarming 1986 TV movie that dives deep into treasured American folklore. The film was part of the extraordinary Tall Tales and Legends anthology series, which celebrated traditional American folklore by sharing varied, iconic tales. Each film in the series illustrated a different myth, legend or tall tale intrinsic to American culture.

This particular episode centers around the folklore legend of John Henry, played by veteran Hollywood actor Danny Glover. Glover gives a perfect representation of the honorable, determined and ultimately tragic folk hero, communicating Henry's strength, humility, and iron will through his characteristic deep, tender tones and magnetic screen presence.

The story of John Henry is a classic American folktale, telling the legend of a former slave who became a respected "steel-driver" – a man who hammered steel drills into rock to make holes for explosives that excavated tunnels for railroad tracks. According to various folk tales, John Henry was accomplished and known as the greatest steel-driver in the region. His physical prowess and work ethic was unmatched.

The film does a wonderful job in character development, taking its time to instill a sense of awe at the feats of strength John Henry is able to achieve. Tom Hulce plays Johnny, an inexperienced young worker who looks up to John Henry and aspires to follow in his footsteps. Lynn Whitfield plays Polly, John Henry's loving wife who is the rock to his boulder, their relationship offering a lighter, emotional contrast to the physical feats and trials that are central to the story.

The central narrative of Tall Tales and Legends - John Henry revolves around an epic confrontation between man and machine. In the face of emerging industrialization, symbolized by a new technologically advanced steam-powered hammer, John Henry is set to prove that no machine can compete with the strength, resilience and spirit of a man. The power of the human spirit is beautifully portrayed in this showdown, epitomizing the traditional struggle between man and machine, marking a turning point in history, where industrial advancements began to replace manual labor.

The film is rich in its portrayal of American culture during the times of the industrial revolution, masterfully blending historical context and folklore. The performances are superb and the narrative is brilliantly cohesive, delivering the story smoothly while keeping audiences engrossed. Besides being a visually appealing film, it is also thought-provoking, evoking discussions about the impacts of mechanization and industrialization on society and human labor.

The audio-visual elements enhance the storytelling, with elaborate set designs and costuming perfectly capturing the 19th-century period. The cinematography is skillfully executed, and the use of natural landscapes helps set an inspiring yet somber tone congruent with the plot.

Danny Glover's performance stands out, his portrayal of the character resonates authenticity, power, and an emotional depth that captures hearts. He exuberantly displays Henry's strength of character, fearlessness, and dedication to uphold the honor of human capability. Tom Hulce also delivers a commendable performance, representing the innocent admiration and aspiration of the younger John perfectly. Lynn Whitfield provides a grounding presence, her character’s love, support, and faith in her husband, showcasing the reluctant but unwavering spirit behind the man.

The film features an inspiring and evocative soundtrack, featuring songs and scores that reflect the era and social climate. The harmonious alignment of the music with key moments in the movie rightfully amplifies the emotions and adds depth to the scenes.

Tall Tales and Legends - John Henry drives home the message of the power and resilience of the human spirit. It’s not just an entertaining film but also offers an enlightening peek into American folklore and the nation's past. This film earnestly explores a timeless folktale legend, while also examining themes of human values, endurance, and integrity. It leaves a lasting impression, inspiring audiences to reflect upon their own strengths and capabilities.