The Petrified Forest

In the harsh American West, a disillusioned former World War I ace pilot, now a drifter named Gabby, finds himself stranded in a remote gas station. While waiting for a bus, he encounters a diverse group of characters, including a waitress, a gangster, and a group of tourists. A tense standoff ensues when the gangster and his associates attempt to rob the station, forcing Gabby to confront his past and decide whether to fight for the future.

The Petrified Forest (1955) is a lesser-known adaptation of Robert E. Sherwood's acclaimed play, often overshadowed by the 1936 Humphrey Bogart version. While it features a solid Western cast, it generally received a more muted reception from critics and audiences compared to its predecessor, often noted for its stagey origins and less impactful direction.

• A serviceable, if somewhat dated, adaptation of a classic play.

• Relies heavily on its dialogue and dramatic premise, which can feel theatrical.

• Lacks the iconic performances and cinematic flair of the earlier film.

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This 1955 film is a remake of the 1936 Warner Bros. film of the same name, which starred Humphrey Bogart in the role later played by Richard Arlen, and Bette Davis in the role played by Mary Beth Hughes.