The Fugitive (1947 film)
The Fugitive is a 1947 American drama film directed by John Ford, based on the 1940 novel The Power and the Glory by Graham Greene. The film stars Henry Fonda as a fugitive Catholic priest in a fictional, unnamed Latin American country where religion has been outlawed by an anti-clerical government.
Plot Synopsis:
Set in a post-revolution Mexico-like country where Catholicism is forbidden, a Catholic priest, played by Henry Fonda, struggles to maintain his faith and minister to the oppressed people while on the run from the authorities. He is pursued relentlessly by a cynical police lieutenant (Pedro Armendáriz) who represents the new regime's anti-religious fervor. Throughout his journey, the priest faces numerous moral dilemmas and temptations, including the desire for comfort and safety, and the guilt of abandoning his flock. He encounters various individuals who either aid or betray him, highlighting the complex and morally ambiguous landscape of the oppressed population. Ultimately, he must decide whether to remain in hiding or risk his life to perform his religious duties.
Production Notes:
The Fugitive was filmed in Mexico. The film faced production difficulties, including budget constraints and conflicts with the Mexican government. John Ford considered The Fugitive to be among his least favorite works.
Cast:
- Henry Fonda as The Fugitive
- Dolores del Río as Maria Dolores
- Pedro Armendáriz as The Lieutenant
- Leo Carrillo as Chief of Police
- Ward Bond as James Power
- J. Carrol Naish as The Informer
Reception:
The Fugitive received mixed reviews upon its release. While some critics praised its cinematography and Henry Fonda's performance, others found the film to be slow-paced and lacking in dramatic tension. The film was not a commercial success. Despite the initial reception, the film has garnered increased appreciation in subsequent years, with some critics acknowledging its visual beauty and thematic depth.
Themes:
The film explores themes of faith, persecution, redemption, and the clash between religious belief and secular authority. It also examines the complexities of morality in times of political and social upheaval. The priest's journey serves as an allegory for the resilience of faith in the face of oppression.