The Devil at 4 O'Clock

The Devil at 4 O'Clock poster

The Devil at 4 O'Clock is a 1961 American drama film directed by Mervyn LeRoy and starring Spencer Tracy, Frank Sinatra, and Kerwin Mathews. It is based on a novel of the same name by Max Catto. The film combines elements of adventure, disaster, and religious drama, as it tells the story of a priest and a convict who come together to rescue children from a leper colony on a Pacific island that is about to be destroyed by a volcanic eruption.

Plot

The story begins with Father Matthew Doonan (played by Spencer Tracy), a dedicated but disillusioned priest, who has been working at a leper colony on the fictional Pacific island of Talua. The island is threatened by an imminent volcanic eruption, prompting the need for evacuation. Father Doonan seeks help to save the children of the colony, but finds it only in the form of three convicts, led by Harry (played by Frank Sinatra), who are en route to Tahiti for their parole. Despite their initial reluctance, the convicts agree to help, motivated by the promise of their freedom in return.

As the group makes their perilous journey to the leper colony, they face various obstacles, including treacherous terrain and the advancing lava flow. Along the way, the characters undergo significant personal transformations, particularly Harry, who develops a sense of responsibility and self-sacrifice. The film reaches its climax as the volcano begins to erupt, forcing the group to race against time to save the children and themselves.

Themes and Reception

The Devil at 4 O'Clock explores themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the power of faith. The characters, especially the convicts, are given a chance to redeem themselves through their selfless actions. The film also delves into the idea of unlikely heroes, as the convicts, initially viewed with distrust and disdain, prove to be the children's best hope for survival.

Upon its release, the film received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised its thrilling adventure and the performances of Tracy and Sinatra, while others criticized its pacing and perceived melodramatic elements. Despite the mixed critical reception, The Devil at 4 O'Clock was a commercial success, appealing to audiences with its combination of action, drama, and moral questions.

Production

The production of The Devil at 4 O'Clock was notable for its use of location shooting in Hawaii, which added authenticity to the film's setting. The volcanic eruption scenes were a combination of practical effects and miniatures, which were innovative for the time. The film's music was composed by George Duning, adding to the tension and emotional depth of the story.

Legacy

While not considered a classic in the same vein as some of its contemporaries, The Devil at 4 O'Clock holds a place in film history for its exploration of human nature under extreme circumstances and its impressive disaster sequences. It also marked a significant collaboration between two of Hollywood's biggest stars of the time, Spencer Tracy and Frank Sinatra.