Heat Lightning
Heat Lightning

Movie spotlight

Heat Lightning

1934
Movie
63 min
English

Olga runs an isolated gas station and restaurant in the stifling hot American desert with her discontented younger sister Myra. When two escaped criminals stop for a bite to eat, Olga is reminded of the past she left behind.

Insights

IMDb7.1/10
Director: Mervyn LeRoyGenres: Crime, Drama, Mystery, Thriller

Plot Summary

A young woman, desperate to save her family's farm from foreclosure, becomes involved with a gang of criminals. She's drawn into their dangerous plans, hoping to secure the money needed to keep her home. However, her involvement quickly spirals into a web of deceit and violence, threatening not only her own life but also the lives of those around her.

Critical Reception

Heat Lightning was generally well-received by critics for its tense atmosphere and strong performances, particularly from Ann Dvorak. It was praised for its efficient storytelling and its portrayal of the struggles faced by families during the Depression era. The film is considered a solid example of pre-Code crime drama.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its suspenseful plot and effective direction.

  • Ann Dvorak's performance was noted as a standout.

  • Captures a grim, compelling mood of desperation.

Google audience: Audience reception data for this older film is not readily available through Google's review system.

Fun Fact

The film is notable for being produced during the pre-Code era of Hollywood, allowing for more mature themes and situations than would be permissible after the Hays Code was strictly enforced.

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