Young Mr. Lincoln

Young Mr. Lincoln, a 1939 monochrome biographical drama, masterfully directed by John Ford, and featuring a memorable performance by the renowned Henry Fonda, is a stirring reminiscent dive into the life of one of America's most cherished personalities - Abraham Lincoln. This film doesn’t cover his entire life but focuses just on Lincoln's early years as a fledgling lawyer in Illinois, piece-mealing a bit of his personal and professional history, while narrating a compelling tale woven around the theme of justice and humanitarian values.

The film opens with young Abraham Lincoln leading a simple and tranquil life in the rustic township of New Salem, Illinois. Henry Fonda immaculately embodies the role, encapsulating the essence of Lincoln's humble beginnings, folkish charm, and his rural twang that blends so effortlessly with his wisdom and wit. These formative years of Lincoln are largely unchronicled, and the film does a spectacular job in bringing to light the less known side of this iconic figure, as a modest young man grappling with his future.

A significant part of the narrative dwells on the provocative romance between Lincoln and Ann Rutledge (played by Pauline Moore). This understated yet poignant love-story is central to Lincoln's character depiction, showcasing the depth of Lincoln's human connections, emotions, and the profound impact of these relationships on his life.

Transitioning from Lincoln’s personal life, the movie navigates into his politics and legal profession. Fascinating scenes are devoted to Lincoln's first steps into politics where he candidly wins over the local folks with his wit and natural gift of oratory, ultimately landing him a place in the Illinois Legislature. His journey towards becoming a lawyer forms a fascinating chunk of the film. The depiction of Lincoln self-teaching law, using borrowed law books and litigating minor cases, provides the audience with a delightful insight into his early struggles as a novice attorney.

One of the pivotal moments in the movie is a dramatic court hearing, where Lincoln defends two brothers falsely accused of murder, a defining case in his early career. Without divulging any plot details, it suffices to say that the court proceedings highlight Lincoln's instinctive knack for justice, his prowess in the art of persuasion, and his firm belief in the righteousness of the law. The brilliance and novelty of his approach in handling the case are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Meticulous attention to detail is lavished on Lincoln's character portrayal. Fonda, with his lanky physique and the prosthetic nose, strikingly resembles Lincoln and delivers a compelling performance. His sustained emphasis on Lincoln's innate kindness, modesty, subtle humor, and humble demeanor, together with his uncanny ability to address complex predicaments with simple, homespun analogies, contributes to a compelling and authentic portrayal of Lincoln's character.

Alice Brady (in her last role), who played Sarah Clay - the mother of the accused boys, deserves special mention for her performance displaying maternal ferocity and vulnerability all at once. Marjorie Weaver, as Mary Todd, shines in her brief appearance and hints at her future significance in Lincoln's life.

Ford's direction is sharp and tends to lyrical at times, with the lush black and white visuals of rural Illinois, the bustling square dances, and the looming storms serving as poignant backdrops for the unfolding drama. The screenplay gracefully weaves in Lincoln's personal anecdotes and his folkish wisdom, amalgamating his humble roots with his tangible potential for greatness, setting us up for the impressive journey he is destined to undertake.

It’s essential to clarify that Young Mr. Lincoln isn't a meticulous and comprehensive biopic in a traditional sense. Ford has taken a degree of creative liberty in dramatizing certain aspects and condensing timelines for narrative appeal. However, these subtle embellishments only enhance the vivacity of the story rather than diluting its authenticity.

In conclusion, Young Mr. Lincoln is an endearing trip back into the youth of one of America’s most celebrated presidents. The movie invites us to look at Lincoln, not as a monumental figure from the past embossed on Mount Rushmore, but as a youthful, struggling, and yet uniquely gifted human being – an unforgettable journey through time worth watching.