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6.1/10
Archivist John
Senior Editor
A definitive 6.1/10 rating for a film that redefined the boundaries of cult cinema. The Ice Flood remains a cornerstone of transgressive art.
Short answer: yes, but it depends on your interest in classic dramas and the social context of early 20th-century lumber industries. 'The Ice Flood' offers a compelling narrative and strong performances, but it also has its share of dated elements and predictable plot points.
For those interested in historical dramas set against the backdrop of early 20th-century America, particularly those involving the lumber industry, 'The Ice Flood' is a worthwhile watch. However, if you prefer more modern storytelling techniques or a broader range of cinematic experiences, you might find this film less appealing.
'The Ice Flood' works because of its strong performances, particularly from Norman Deming as Jack De Quincy, and the intense action sequences that bring the harsh realities of the lumber industry to life. The film also excels in its social commentary, offering a nuanced look at class dynamics and the expectations placed on young men in the early 1920s.
Despite its strengths, 'The Ice Flood' fails due to its somewhat predictable plot and the occasional reliance on clichés. The romance between Jack and Marie O'Nei, while sweet, feels somewhat forced and lacks the depth one expects from more contemporary storytelling.
You should watch 'The Ice Flood' if you are a fan of classic dramas, particularly those set in the early 20th century, or if you are interested in the social and historical context of the American lumber industry. The film's strong performances and compelling narrative make it a worthwhile experience, especially for those who appreciate the craftsmanship of early Hollywood.
Jack De Quincy, an American graduate of Oxford, is sent by his father, the owner of a large lumber company, to take charge of a lumber camp in the American northwest. Upon arrival, Jack must prove his worth by establishing himself among the rough and tumble men of the camp. He quickly wins the respect of the men by defeating Dum-Dum Pete, the toughest man in the area. Jack also takes it upon himself to ensure that a needed operation is performed on the camp's mascot, a crippled young boy, and rescues Marie O'Nei, the daughter of a rival lumber company, from a deadly ice-break flood. As Jack navigates the challenges of his new life, he must also balance his growing feelings for Marie and the expectations placed on him by his father.
Norman Deming delivers a strong performance as Jack De Quincy, bringing depth and complexity to the character. His interactions with the other characters, particularly Dum-Dum Pete, are well-acted and add to the film's overall tension. Viola Dana, who plays Marie O'Nei, also gives a solid performance, though her character's development feels somewhat underwritten at times. The supporting cast, including George Irving and Billy Kent Schaefer, add to the film's authenticity and help to create a believable world.
Director Robert Z. Leonard and cinematographer James J. Duggan work together to create a visually engaging film that captures the harsh beauty of the American northwest. The scenes set in the lumber camp are particularly well-shot, with the camera capturing the rugged terrain and the hard work of the men. The action sequences, particularly the ice-break flood rescue, are staged with a sense of urgency and danger, adding to the film's overall impact.
The pacing of 'The Ice Flood' is generally effective, with the film moving at a steady pace that allows the audience to become invested in the characters and their struggles. However, there are occasional moments of slow pacing, particularly during the more dialogue-heavy scenes. The tone of the film is largely serious, with moments of humor and romance interspersed to break up the tension.
One of the strengths of 'The Ice Flood' is its social commentary on the expectations placed on young men in the early 20th century. Jack's journey to prove himself to his father and establish himself in the lumber camp is a microcosm of the larger societal pressures facing young men of his generation. The film also touches on themes of class dynamics, as Jack must navigate his relationship with Marie O'Nei, the daughter of a rival lumber company, and the expectations placed on him by his father.
While 'The Ice Flood' may not be for everyone, it is a well-crafted drama that offers a compelling narrative and strong performances. The film's strengths lie in its strong characters and compelling story, but it also has its share of dated elements and predictable plot points. For those interested in historical dramas or the social and historical context of the American lumber industry, 'The Ice Flood' is certainly worth a watch.
It works. But it's flawed. 'The Ice Flood' is a well-crafted drama that offers a compelling narrative and strong performances, but it also has its share of dated elements and predictable plot points. For those interested in historical dramas or the social and historical context of the American lumber industry, 'The Ice Flood' is certainly worth a watch. However, if you prefer more modern storytelling techniques or a broader range of cinematic experiences, you might find this film less appealing.
IMDb —
1917
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