Young Fugitives

Young Fugitives is a captivating film from the Hollywood Golden Age, specifically 1938. The movie offers an engaging blend of drama, romance, and comedy, making it an enjoyable and heartwarming experience for the audience. Directed by John Rawlins and produced by Trem Carr, the movie stars Robert Wilcox, Dorothea Kent, and Harry Davenport in the lead roles.

The film revolves around the main character, Joel Bentham (Robert Wilcox), a young ambitious man burdened with the will of his father wishing him to take over the family business—a farm. The farm has been passed down for generations before him and signifies a heritage and tradition that Joel does not feel drawn towards. His heart lies elsewhere, specifically in the dynamic world of art, bringing a complex dynamic to the plot.

Starring alongside Wilcox is Dorothea Kent, who plays the role of Marian, a young woman with big city dreams, supposedly contrasting with the quaint countryside where the story unfolds. Kent is a delight to watch and her on-screen chemistry with Wilcox is commendable. Marian's character adds a dimension of modernity and ambition to the film, making it appealing to a wider audience demographic.

Harry Davenport plays the role of Cy, an old charming eccentric who becomes an essential part of Joel's life. Known as the town's dreamer, his distinctive presence further amplifies the story and presents an interesting contrast to the reality of the rural community. Cy's character is heartwarming and offers numerous touchingly human moments throughout the film.

On receiving his father's will, Joel is faced with his biggest decision— to stay and continue his family legacy or follow his artistic passion by moving to the city. It's here where the title "Young Fugitives" gains its significance. The protagonist's struggle of wanting to break free from his family's expectations and societal norms without causing disappointment to his loved ones echoes the sentiment of being a fugitive in his own life.

With this central conflict at its core, Young Fugitives also delves into themes of ambition, generational gap, societal expectations, and self-discovery in a rural setting. This emotional narrative is juxtaposed and complimented with moments of humor and romance, making it a compelling view.

Throughout the film, director John Rawlins beautifully captures the nuanced performances of the cast and does a magnificent job in creating an authentic atmosphere set in the 1930's farming community. The cinematography, costume design, and usage of lighting are impressive and help establish the distinctive tone of the film.

The film that was released under Universal Pictures, truly displays strong performances from its principal cast, especially Robert Wilcox who convincingly takes the audience through the journey of his character's internal conflict, aspirations, and growth. Dorothea Kent shines with her charismatic portrayal of Marian, bringing depth and freshness to her character. And of course, the seasoned actor Harry Davenport is an absolute highlight of the film with his memorable portrayal of Cy.

Young Fugitives is a beautiful blend of rich storytelling, engaging narrative, and solid performances making it an unforgettably touching film of its time. It's an exploration of self-identity, family obligations, and the pursuit of personal aspirations that still resonates today.

In conclusion, Young Fugitives is a timeless piece of cinema that showcases the struggle between one's duty and dreams. For those interested in classic films with deep-rooted themes and brilliant performances, this hidden gem from 1938 is a must-watch.