Movie spotlight
The Harvester
In a small town in Indiana in the 1890s, the domineering and ambitious Mrs. Biddle arranges a marriage between her spoiled daughter Thelma and the town's prize catch, harvester David Langston, who is wedded to the soil. David is friends with orphan Ruth Jameson and, although she is in love with him, he eventually gives in to the machinations of Mrs. Biddle and consents to marry Thelma. Meanwhile, technological advances come to town, including its first gasoline buggy, galvanic battery, and metal bathtub fitted with running water. When Mrs. Biddle tries to convince David to give up the farming life and join her husband in real estate, Mr. Biddle, hen-pecked and dissatisfied with city life, warns David against selling his farm.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young woman, driven by her family's financial struggles, accepts a marriage proposal from a wealthy but unappealing landowner. She soon finds herself caught between his possessiveness and her growing feelings for a charming young man who works on the estate. As secrets and tensions rise, she must make a difficult choice that will affect her future and the lives of those around her.
Critical Reception
Released in 1936, "The Harvester" received a generally positive reception from critics for its performances, particularly Loretta Young's, and its melodramatic storytelling. While not a major critical darling, it was considered a solid entry in the romantic drama genre of the era, appreciated for its emotional depth and visual appeal.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for Loretta Young's compelling performance.
Noted for its effective portrayal of rural life and romantic entanglements.
Considered a well-crafted melodrama of its time.
Google audience: Audience reception from 1936 is not readily available in modern aggregated formats. However, contemporary reviews suggest it was viewed as an engaging and emotional drama suitable for the era's moviegoers.
Fun Fact
Ann Sheridan, who plays a supporting role as a farmhand's daughter, was still relatively early in her career at the time of this film's release, before she became a major star.
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