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Cult Review
Archivist John
Senior Editor
Short answer: yes, but it's not a perfect film and it's definitely not for everyone. 'Flames' is a romantic Western that offers a mix of drama, romance, and adventure, set against the backdrop of a forest fire and a small Oregon town. It's worth watching for its engaging characters and the unique setting, but it's also flawed in several ways.
This film works because: It captures the essence of a small-town community, the tension between characters, and the intriguing plot surrounding the forest fire and the kidnapping. The performances are strong, especially by Bryant Washburn as Herbert Landis and Cissy Fitzgerald as Anne Travers.
This film fails because: The pacing can be a bit uneven, with some parts dragging on and others feeling rushed. The script occasionally feels predictable and lacks the depth needed to fully develop the characters beyond their surface-level motivations.
You should watch it if: You enjoy romantic Westerns, appreciate strong character dynamics, and are willing to engage with a film that has its fair share of flaws but still tells a compelling story. It’s not for those who prefer a more polished or modern take on the genre, as it relies heavily on the era's storytelling techniques.
The film is set in a small Oregon town during the construction of a bridge, with a backdrop of a raging forest fire. This setting adds to the tension and the urgency of the plot. Herbert Landis, played by Bryant Washburn, is the protagonist, a man who is secretly in love with Anne Travers, played by Cissy Fitzgerald. Anne's father, Hilary Fenton, is a society gentleman who is sent to accompany them. The supporting characters include Ole Bergson, the foreman, played by Eugene O'Brien, and the real Blackie Blanchette, portrayed by Boris Karloff. The performances are strong, with particular standout moments from Washburn and Fitzgerald.
Direct answer: Yes, this film is worth watching if you enjoy the classics of the romantic Western genre and are willing to embrace its unique storytelling style. It's not perfect, but it offers a satisfying tale of love, adventure, and community.
The cinematography of 'Flames' is quite effective, capturing the beauty of the Oregon landscape and the intensity of the forest fire. The use of natural light and shadow effectively conveys the drama of the setting. However, the pacing can be a bit uneven. Some scenes feel rushed, while others drag on, particularly during the setup of the plot. The climax, where Herbert and Anne escape through the flames, is a moment of high tension and drama, but it could have been even more impactful if the pacing was more consistent.
Alfred A. Cohn, the writer and director, does a commendable job in navigating the complex plot and character dynamics. The direction is straightforward but effective, with a focus on the emotional beats of the story. The performances are strong, with particular highlights from Bryant Washburn and Cissy Fitzgerald. Washburn's portrayal of Herbert Landis is nuanced, capturing the character's brooding nature and his secret love for Anne. Fitzgerald's Anne Travers is equally compelling, bringing depth to the character and making her a believable protagonist. Eugene O'Brien as Ole Bergson and Boris Karloff as Blackie Blanchette also contribute significantly to the film's overall success.
The plot of 'Flames' revolves around Herbert Landis, who is sent to supervise the construction of a bridge in Oregon. Anne Travers, who is in love with Herbert, insists that her father, Hilary Fenton, join the party, leading to a series of events that involve a kidnapping and a dramatic confrontation with the real Blackie Blanchette during a raging forest fire. The plot is engaging and keeps the audience invested in the characters and their motivations. The themes of love, trust, and the complexities of human relationships are well-presented, especially in the interactions between Herbert and Anne, and Herbert and Ole Bergson.
Yes, it is worth watching if you enjoy the classic romantic Western genre and are willing to embrace its unique storytelling style. It offers a satisfying tale of love, adventure, and community, with strong character dynamics and engaging plot points. However, it's not for everyone, as it relies heavily on the era's storytelling techniques and has its fair share of flaws. The pacing can be a bit uneven, and some parts feel rushed, but the strong performances and engaging plot keep the film entertaining.
In conclusion, 'Flames' is a romantic Western that offers a mix of drama, romance, and adventure. It's worth watching for its engaging characters and the unique setting, even though it has its fair share of flaws. It's not for everyone, but if you enjoy the classics of the romantic Western genre and are willing to embrace its unique storytelling style, it's definitely worth a watch.
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