Spitfire (1934 film)

Spitfire-1934

Spitfire is a 1934 American drama film directed by John Cromwell and starring Katharine Hepburn, Robert Young, and Ralph Bellamy. The film is based on the play "Trigger" by Lula Vollmer and revolves around the story of a backwoods girl who becomes involved in the lives of several characters in her community, leading to dramatic consequences. Hepburn's character, Trigger Hicks, is a fiercely independent and superstitious mountain girl who believes she has the power to heal the sick, which causes suspicion and fear among the townspeople.

Plot

The film opens in the Appalachian Mountains, where Trigger Hicks, played by Katharine Hepburn, lives a solitary life. Despite her isolation, Trigger is known in the community for her supposed healing powers, which she believes are a gift from God. When a new engineer, Stafford, portrayed by Robert Young, arrives to work on a dam project, he becomes fascinated by Trigger's unique personality and her self-imposed exile from the rest of the community.

As the story unfolds, Trigger's actions and the superstitions of the townspeople lead to a series of misunderstandings and conflicts. When a child falls ill, Trigger attempts to heal him using her methods, but her unconventional ways only serve to increase the suspicions and fears of the townspeople. The situation escalates, culminating in a dramatic climax that forces Trigger to confront the consequences of her actions and the community's beliefs.

Cast

• Katharine Hepburn as Trigger Hicks
• Robert Young as Stafford
• Ralph Bellamy as John Stafford
• Martha Sleeper as Clara
• Louis Mason as Jim
• Sara Haden as Etta Dawson
• Virginia Howell as Mrs. Dawson

Production

Directed by John Cromwell, Spitfire was produced by RKO Pictures. The screenplay was adapted by Jane Murfin from Lula Vollmer's play "Trigger". The film showcases Katharine Hepburn in one of her early roles, highlighting her versatility as an actress by portraying a character vastly different from her real-life persona and previous roles.

Reception

Upon its release, Spitfire received mixed reviews from critics. While Katharine Hepburn's performance was praised for its intensity and commitment, the film itself was criticized for its portrayal of Appalachian culture and the implausibility of its plot. Despite the criticisms, Spitfire has gained a certain level of appreciation over the years for its unique story and Hepburn's standout performance.

Legacy

Spitfire remains an interesting piece in Katharine Hepburn's illustrious career. It showcases her willingness to take on challenging and unconventional roles. The film is also notable for its early attempt to bring the culture and stories of the Appalachian region to the screen, despite its stereotypical and sometimes inaccurate portrayal.