Summary
The Sap centers on Barry Weston, a young man from a small town in Oregon, who is both a 'mama’s boy' and a reluctant hero. Drafted into the A.E.F. during World War I, Barry accidentally captures a nest of German snipers and is awarded a medal for bravery. Upon returning home, he faces the disdain of the townspeople and his girlfriend, Janet, who cannot forgive his cowardice. As a result, Barry decides to end his life in the forest. The film explores themes of masculinity, bravery, and the expectations of a community. It is based on a play by Philip Littell, adapted for the screen by a team including Philip Klein, William Grew, George Marion Jr., and Edward T. Lowe Jr. Kenneth Harlan stars in the lead role, alongside David Butler, Heinie Conklin, Eulalie Jensen, Mary McAllister, and John Cossar.
Synopsis
Barry Weston is raised by his widowed mother and is, at best, a "mama's boy," and, at worst, a bit of a coward. He is drafted into the A.E.F. when World War I breaks out, and accidentally captures a nest of German snipers, and is decorated for bravery. He returns home as a hero but Vance, the town bully, challenges him to a fight but Barry refuses and the townsmen mock him and consider him a coward. His girlfriend Janet is none too impressed, either. He heads for the tall timber with suicide as his intent.