The Fighting Marine (1932) Review: A Classic Pre-Code Adventure

Short answer: Yes, but the adventure is more thrilling than the drama.

The Fighting Marine is a pre-Code adventure that combines action, deception, and unexpected twists. Ben Walker delivers a solid performance as the reporter turned boxer, while the supporting cast adds an array of colorful characters. However, the film's pacing can feel slow at times, and the plot is predictable, which might disappoint viewers looking for a more complex narrative.

Is this film worth watching?

Yes, 'The Fighting Marine' is a fun, old-school adventure that will appeal to fans of classic Hollywood cinema and those who enjoy the grittier aspects of pre-Code films. It's not a deep or complex film, but it's a thrilling ride that will keep you engaged until the very end.

This film works because...

This film works because of its commitment to its genre. The action scenes are well-choreographed, and the deception and suspense elements are expertly woven into the narrative. The supporting cast, including Virginia Vance and Gene Tunney, adds depth and humor to the proceedings, making the film a more enjoyable experience.

Cinematic perspective: Exploring the visual vocabulary of The Fighting Marine (1926) through its definitive frames.

This film fails because...

This film fails because of its predictability. The plot twists, while entertaining, are somewhat obvious, and the ending feels a bit forced. Additionally, the pacing can be lethargic at times, which can detract from the overall momentum of the story.

You should watch it if...

You should watch it if you're a fan of classic Hollywood adventure films, particularly those from the pre-Code era. It's the kind of film that's best enjoyed for its entertainment value rather than its depth.

Ben Walker's performance as Dick Farrington is solid, bringing a mix of grit and charm to the character. His transformation from reporter to boxer is believable and engaging.

Cinematic perspective: Exploring the visual vocabulary of The Fighting Marine (1926) through its definitive frames.

The action sequences, particularly the boxing matches, are well-executed and provide the necessary excitement. The fight scenes are fast-paced and filled with energy, making them stand out among the film's other elements.

The supporting cast, including Virginia Vance and Gene Tunney, adds an extra layer of humor and depth to the story. Their interactions with the main character are enjoyable and contribute to the overall entertainment value of the film.

The mystery surrounding Lady Chatfield's plans and the mining town of Goldbrook is intriguing, but it's not enough to redeem the predictability of the plot. The film's central conflict is straightforward, making it easy to see where the story is going from the beginning.

The film's pacing can be slow, particularly in the early scenes where the setup is established. This can make the first half of the film feel a bit drawn out, detracting from the overall excitement.

Key Takeaways

• Best for: Fans of classic Hollywood adventure films, particularly those from the pre-Code era.
• Not for: Viewers looking for a deep, complex narrative or those who prefer more modern, nuanced storytelling.
• Standout element: The action sequences and the supporting cast's performances, particularly Virginia Vance and Gene Tunney.
• Biggest flaw: The predictable plot and slow pacing, which can detract from the overall enjoyment.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Ben Walker's performance as Dick Farrington is solid and engaging.
• The action scenes are well-choreographed and exciting.
• The supporting cast, including Virginia Vance and Gene Tunney, adds depth and humor to the story.

Cons

• The plot is somewhat predictable and lacks depth.
• The pacing can be slow at times, particularly in the early scenes.
• The central conflict is straightforward, making it easy to see where the story is going from the beginning.

Verdict

The Fighting Marine is a fun, old-school adventure that will appeal to fans of classic Hollywood cinema. While it's not a groundbreaking film, it's an entertaining ride that is best enjoyed for its entertainment value. The action, humor, and supporting cast performances make it a worthwhile watch, but the predictability and slow pacing can make it a bit of an acquired taste. It works. But it’s flawed.