DbcultAccessing Vault...
4.6/10
Archivist John
Senior Editor
A definitive 4.6/10 rating for a film that redefined the boundaries of cult cinema. Thundering Speed remains a cornerstone of transgressive art.
Short answer: Yes, but it demands a certain level of patience and an appreciation for early cinema. If you’re a fan of classic adventure films or thrill-seeking spectacles, 'Thundering Speed' will deliver. However, if you prefer films with broader narrative arcs or more complex character development, you might find the story somewhat simplistic.
Thundering Speed is a film that works because it immerses you in the world of early 20th-century racing. Gary Cooper’s performance is captivating, bringing a sense of rugged charm to his character. The pacing is relentless, matching the high-octane nature of the race itself, and the cinematography captures the rugged American landscape with striking visuals. However, it also fails because the plot is occasionally predictable and the character development is minimal. Despite these flaws, it’s a film that’s worth watching for its raw, energetic spirit and the undeniable chemistry between Cooper and his co-stars.
It works because of its raw, energetic spirit and the undeniable chemistry between Gary Cooper and his co-stars. But it’s flawed because its plot is occasionally predictable and the character development is minimal.
You should watch it if you’re a fan of classic adventure films or thrill-seeking spectacles and are willing to overlook some of the film’s structural limitations.
Cooper delivers an engaging performance as the lead racer, capturing the spirit of the era with his rugged charm. His on-screen chemistry with Eileen Sedgwick is palpable, adding a layer of human interest to the otherwise fast-paced action. However, the supporting cast, while competent, doesn’t leave a lasting impression, with their characters feeling somewhat underdeveloped.
Director Bert Baldridge keeps the film’s pace consistently high, moving the story forward with a sense of urgency that matches the race itself. The cinematography is particularly impressive, capturing the rugged American landscape with striking visuals. The scenes of the race are especially well-crafted, with tight camera angles and rapid editing that heighten the tension and excitement.
The plot is straightforward, focusing on the competition between rival teams in a cross-country race. While the story is engaging and the pacing is relentless, it does occasionally fall into predictable tropes. The narrative structure is fairly linear, with the climax of the race serving as the focal point of the film. Despite this, the tension builds well, and the sense of urgency keeps the audience engaged throughout.
The film’s use of music is effective, with John Gilbert’s score adding to the sense of excitement and danger. However, the sound design is somewhat rudimentary by modern standards, with no dialogue, only sound effects for the race scenes. This adds to the film’s authenticity but can also make it feel out of touch with contemporary expectations.
Thundering Speed is a film that caters to a specific audience. If you’re a fan of early cinema and classic adventure films, it’s definitely worth watching. However, if you’re looking for a more complex narrative or a broader character arc, you might find the film’s structure somewhat limiting. Nevertheless, its raw energy and the charisma of Gary Cooper make it a compelling watch for those who appreciate the spirit of early 20th-century adventure films.
It works because of its raw, energetic spirit and the undeniable chemistry between Gary Cooper and his co-stars. But it’s flawed because its plot is occasionally predictable and the character development is minimal.
You should watch it if you’re a fan of classic adventure films or thrill-seeking spectacles and are willing to overlook some of the film’s structural limitations.
Thundering Speed is a film that’s worth watching for its raw energy and the undeniable chemistry between Gary Cooper and his co-stars. However, it’s not without its flaws, and its structural simplicity may not appeal to all audiences. If you’re a fan of early cinema and classic adventure films, it’s a must-see. Otherwise, it’s a film that’s best appreciated with a certain level of patience and an understanding of its historical context.
IMDb —
1919
Community
Log in to comment.
