Petróleo
Petróleo

Movie spotlight

Petróleo

1940
Movie
88 min
Spanish

A man who has invested a lot of money in the extraction of petroleum in Comodoro Rivadavia is betrayed by his foreman.

Insights

IMDb6.2/10
Director: Edmund GouldingGenres: Drama, Western

Plot Summary

A ruthless baroness and a determined prospector clash over land rich in oil. As their rivalry intensifies, they find themselves drawn into a complex dance of ambition, betrayal, and unexpected romance. The struggle for control of the valuable resource mirrors the passionate and volatile nature of their relationship.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, 'Petróleo' received mixed reviews, with critics often divided on its pacing and Marlene Dietrich's performance. While some praised its epic scope and the visual grandeur of its Western setting, others found the plot to be somewhat contrived. Audiences at the time were generally engaged by the star power of Dietrich and Wayne, though it wasn't a massive box office success.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its striking visuals and strong performances, particularly from Marlene Dietrich.

  • Criticized by some for a melodramatic plot and uneven pacing.

  • A classic Hollywood Western that offers a compelling, if occasionally predictable, narrative.

Google audience: Audience reception information for this film is not readily available. Historical reviews indicate a mixed but generally positive viewing experience for those who enjoyed classic Hollywood dramas and Westerns.

Fun Fact

Marlene Dietrich's character, 'Laurette 'Sadie' de Burgos', was originally intended to be a much younger woman, but Dietrich, who was 38 at the time of filming, insisted on playing the role as written, bringing her own mature gravitas to the part.

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