The Last Outpost is a 1935 American adventure film directed by Charles Barton and Louis J. Gasnier. The plot revolves around British officers during World War I, focusing on Captain Michael Andrews and John Stevenson. Andrews, a British intelligence officer, escapes captivity with the help of a Turkish commander and embarks on a mission to warn villagers of an impending attack. The film features Cary Grant, Claude Rains, Gertrude Michael, and Kathleen Burke in lead roles. Stevenson's character confronts a love triangle involving Andrews and Rosemary Haydon, leading to a dramatic climax in the Sudan. The movie received mixed reviews, with praise for the direction, camerawork, and acting performances.
Plot
The plot of The Last Outpost (1935) revolves around Captain Michael Andrews, a British officer captured by Kurds during World War I. With the help of a local Turkish commander, Andrews escapes and learns that the commander is a British intelligence officer. Together, they set out to warn villagers of an impending Kurdish attack. Andrews, after a river crossing and a romantic encounter with a tribal woman, goes to Cairo for medical treatment where he falls in love with his nurse, Rosemary Haydon. However, Rosemary reveals she is secretly married to John Stevenson, another British officer. Stevenson, who is also in love with Rosemary, confronts Andrews in Sudan. A battle ensues at a fort where Stevenson sacrifices himself, leaving Andrews free to marry Rosemary.
Trailer
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Cast
- Cary Grant as Captain Michael Andrews
- Claude Rains as John Stevenson
- Gertrude Michael as Rosemary Haydon
- Kathleen Burke as Zaya
- Colin Tapley as Lieutenant Graham
- Margaret Swope as Nurse
- Billy Bevan as Sergeant
- Clyde Cook as Corporal
- Harry Woods as Turkish Commander
- Claude King as General Allenby
Director: Louis Gasnier, Charles Barton
Box office Earnings: $1,225,000
Genre: Adventure
Release Date (DVD): Oct 14, 2010
Theme
The theme of The Last Outpost film is centered around the concept of survival, resilience, and the struggle to maintain civilization in a harsh and unforgiving environment. The narrative unfolds in a remote colonial outpost in the jungle, serving as a last refuge for weary travelers amidst the hostile jungle setting. The story captures the challenges faced by British officers, missionaries, scientists, and travelers as they navigate through adversity, accidents, and economic downturns. Themes of perseverance, adaptation, and the impact of external forces like the Great Depression on business operations are prominent throughout the storyline. Additionally, the film portrays elements of human ambition, exploration, and the consequences of venturing into unknown territories.
Reception
The reception of Cary Grant's performance in The Last Outpost was positive, with the film being received "extremely well." Cary grant, known for his versatility and charm, showcased his acting skills in various genres, including romantic melodrama, high comedy, and low farce during his peak years from 1937 to 1940. Grant's ability to engage audiences in different roles, from romantic leads to comedic characters, contributed to his enduring popularity and critical acclaim in the film industry.
Production Challenge
The production of The Last Outpost faced challenges related to the world's instability during that period. The film's context, set during World War I, likely presented obstacles in recreating historical events authentically and navigating the sensitivities surrounding war themes. Additionally, the film industry itself may have encountered challenges due to economic instability, as hinted in the reference to "problems of businesses with poor..." in one of the sources. These challenges could have influenced aspects of production such as budgeting, resource allocation, and overall filmmaking processes.
Setting
The Last Outpost is set in various locations that contribute to the film's adventurous and exotic atmosphere. The story unfolds in a remote colonial outpost situated in the jungle, serving as a refuge for travelers amidst the harsh and unforgiving environment. The film captures the essence of these settings through its portrayal of British officers navigating through the jungle, encounters with local tribes, and dramatic events unfolding in exotic locales. Additionally, the film transitions to urban settings like Cairo, adding depth to the narrative by showcasing contrasting environments and cultural dynamics. These diverse settings play a crucial role in shaping the tone and atmosphere of the film, enhancing its visual appeal and thematic elements.
Trivia & Fun Fact
- The Last Outpost was released in 1935 and starred Cary Grant in a leading role.
- The film is noted for its adventurous and exotic setting, showcasing a remote colonial outpost in the jungle and capturing the challenges faced by British officers during World War I.
- Cary Grant's performance in The Last Outpost added to his growing reputation as a versatile actor, known for his charisma and acting range.
- The movie is part of Cary Grant's filmography in the 1930s, a period where he starred in various successful films across different genres.
- The Last Outpost contributes to Cary Grant's legacy as a Hollywood legend, showcasing his early career and talent in captivating audiences with his on-screen presence.
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