Untamed

Untamed is a brilliantly constructed pre-code American drama directed by Jack Conway. Released in 1929, the film is based on the novel 'The Law of the Tropics' by Edgar Selwyn. It stars renowned Hollywood icons like Joan Crawford, Robert Montgomery, and Ernest Torrence, demonstrating cinematic grandeur. Untamed grasps the delicate transition from silent movies to talkies, making it a prominent film in the history of cinema.

Joan Crawford, who was an established silent picture star at the time, plays the role of Betty Lou Spence. She is a beautiful, resilient, and independent woman of modest means living in New York City during the roaring 1920s. She is unfettered and uncaged by societal norms, deeply in love with life's experiences. Crawford impeccably manifests the role of Betty Lou, exhibiting her ambitious dreams and courageous spirit, creating a memorable heroine.

In stark contrast to Betty Lou, Robert Montgomery stars as 'Benny', a romantic, young, Wall Street millionaire. Benny personifies the role of an idealistic yet shallow lover, infatuated with Betty Lou's charm. The unmatched combination of the two actors brings a distinct and captivating dynamic to the tale. Their chemistry on screen captures the audience's attention while traversing the narrative highs and lows.

Ernest Torrence makes his mark with his Lumberjack-esk character 'Buck'. A brawny man with a heart of gold, Buck brings a sense of adventure and unexpected humor to the plot. Torrence’s portrayal of Buck brings depth to the narrative, enhancing the drama and love triangle that forms between him, Betty Lou, and Benny.

Set against the backdrop of New York City, Untamed is a compelling tale of love, ambition, and the struggle for individuality. The characters dwell in the depth of wealth, where society is obsessed with luxury and materialism, yet the film remarkably handles the subject of class and societal roles. The narrative is nuanced with the characters aspiring for more, not materialistically but in terms of love, respect, and dignity.

Director Jack Conway plays with cinematic nuances as he exploits sound to dramatize the narrative. Untamed stands as one of the early talkies, portraying the cigarette-girl life of Crawford and the high-stake monetary transactions of Montgomery in a riveting story of love and ambition. The film adroitly balances humor and drama, painting a vivid picture of the societal norms of the era.

The film also features Crawford's first on-screen song "Chant of the Jungle", which she performs with a memorable allure while dressing in a jungle costume. Her unforgettable performance in this scene adds a musical element to the film, setting it apart from conventional dramas. This moment is a key highlight, showcasing the film's creative exploration within the realm of talkies.

The visual appeal of the film is equally noteworthy - a testament to the late 1920s production design. Both interior and exterior shots of the film accurately showcase the vibrant energy of the era, contributing to an enriching viewer experience.

Untamed is a potent cocktail of love, ambition, societal disparity, and the requisite of self-identity. The characters, the narrative, and the presentation come together to present a vivid and captivating portrait of the age. Director Jack Conway embraces the transition from silent movies to talkies while emphasizing his narratives intelligently with on-screen performers.

Joan Crawford, Robert Montgomery, and Ernest Torrence bring life to these vibrant characters, making Untamed an unforgettable experience. Each character craves affection in their way, each fighting their battles, each embracing their moments. The film successfully strikes a balance between love and ambition while paying homage to the societal norms of the 1920s.

The essence of the film lies in its message: No matter how you choose your life, it is your feelings and courage that define you and not your reputation. Hence its title, Untamed encourages viewers to manifest their dreams into reality without any hesitation. It’s a cinematic ode to the indomitable spirit of individuals who do not bow to societal norms and carry an unwavering commitment to their ambitions.