The Great Mike

The Great Mike is a heartwarming 1944 film directed by Wallace Fox, which brings together a captivating combination of drama, sports, family relation, and the love for animals, specifically horses. The film stars Stuart Erwin, known for his roles in comedies and adventures, along with youthful actors Robert 'Buzz' Henry and Carl 'Alfalfa' Switzer. Both Henry and Switzer delivered performances that thrilled audiences, particularly in light of their prior successes as prominent members of the "Our Gang" films in the early 1930s. The movie also features veteran actors like Ann Gillis and Pierre Watkin in substantive roles.

The narrative primarily centres around a young newspaper delivery boy, Mickey (played by Buzz Henry), who demonstrates a great fondness and knack for horses. Mickey, through his interactions, reveals his exceptional understanding of these magnificent creatures, allowing audiences to appreciate the profound bond between humans and animals.

Stuart Erwin stars as "Jeff Carter," a modest newspaper man who is struggling to keep his business afloat. Simultaneously he has to care for his horse, "Mike," who seems to be past his prime and appears to be a dud. However, his life starts to take a promising turn when he crosses paths with the irrepressibly positive Mickey, who seems to immediately grasp the untapped potential hidden within Mike.

As the storyline unravels, the plot dynamically envelops a thrilling sports angle. Mickey is convinced that with a little guidance and a ton of patience, Mike could be a championship racehorse. A striking underdog story forms the crux of the movie as it follows the unlikely duo of a small paperboy and a seemingly beaten-down horse, navigating their path in the world of competitive horse racing.

Meanwhile, Switzer, playing “Hanger,” strikes the perfect balance for comic relief with his infectious enthusiasm and perfectly timed humour. Switzer's showy exaggerations and Erwin's underplayed subtlety makes this pairing incredibly engaging, catalyzing occasional doses of laughter amidst the drama.

The movie’s primary appeal lies in its soulful exploration of the triumphant spirit, the power of perseverance, and above all, believing in the improbable. The bond between Mickey and this overlooked horse tells a tale that will capture the heart of all audiences, from the young horse lover to the seasoned viewer. The Great Mike is one of those enduring films that emphasize the importance of nurturing dreams, cherishing friendships, and believing in oneself in the face of adversity; it does so in an uncontrived and honest manner.

The portrayal of horse racing in the film is exhilarating. The sport is authentically and genuinely represented, with vivid depictions of the related thrill, danger, and passion. The horse race sequences are executed in a riveting fashion that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats, rooting for the underdog.

Furthermore, the film showcases a vivid depiction of the 1940s' times, especially highlighting the working class's struggles, hopes, and dreams. The movie also sheds light on the role of newspapers during that era, providing audiences with a historic glimpse of the importance of print media.

The director, Wallace Fox, has done a commendable job of putting together a story that is deeply emotional and relatable yet thrilling and exciting. The cinematography is admirable for its time, focusing on the intricacies of horse racing sequences as well as the simplicity of life and its struggles. Also, the performances delivered by the entire cast, especially the young actors, are praiseworthy.

In conclusion, The Great Mike is a delightful film that intertwines a tale of friendship, belief, courage, and dreams amidst the backdrop of horse racing and a war era's challenging environment. The movie, in its gentle, warm rhythm, brings forth a tale of ordinary individuals and an overlooked horse collectively making extraordinary strides, perfectly captured in its impactful tagline: "A story of raw courage against fantastic odds." Despite having been released over half a century ago, The Great Mike continues to be a charming film, retaining the potential to enthral modern audiences with its timeless narrative.