Let's dive into Delmer Daves’ 1964 drama, Youngblood Hawke. This movie review sets the stage for an ambitious young man who shakes off the dust of a coal-driven life and hits the bustling streets of NYC. The film, starring James Franciscus and Suzanne Pleshette, takes you on a whirlwind journey through the perils and perks of fame and love, carrying all the flair you’d expect from the era.
At its core, Youngblood Hawke follows Arthur Hawke, a coal truck driver who strikes gold with his first novel. Arthur’s transition from the quaint countryside to the vibrant, chaotic New York City is like a coal miner swapping his shovel for a golden pen. But fame isn't all sunsets and champagne; it's a hurricane of high-stakes publishing—and a secret affair that could shake his world. As he juggles these, Arthur unknowingly misses the real prize: his editor and the unspoken love between them. The movie smartly uses these tensions to explore themes of ambition, fame, and the bittersweet grind of literary success.
Turning our lens to the performances, James Franciscus nails the restless and ambitious spirit of a rookie author, capturing the essence of Arthur’s brash optimism and vulnerability. Meanwhile, Suzanne Pleshette brings depth and charm as the editor, torn between professional poise and personal desire. Add Geneviève Page, who infuses her character with elegance, and you have a cast that paints a vivid picture despite the sometimes dragging screenplay. Delmer Daves holds the director's chair firmly, steering the film with a balanced blend of drama and intimacy. Yet, one can't help but crave sharper, more daring dialogues to match the era's vibrant backdrop—more bite, if you will!
When it comes to cinematic peers, Youngblood Hawke sits tastefully alongside classics like The Great Gatsby (1920s) and Peyton Place—where the pursuit of dreams meets complex human desires. Though it may not deliver the same explosive flair or narrative depth, it has its unique charm, offering a more subdued, character-driven drama that's less about flash and more about personal struggle. It's like a quiet storm, mesmerizing in parts but abating before hitting a crescendo.
If dramatic tales of ambition and romance tug at your heartstrings, Youngblood Hawke is a must-watch film and a fascinating delve into the human psyche. Despite its occasional pacing issues and some lukewarm storytelling in places—a nod to the screenplay duo of Herman Wouk and Delmer Daves—the film remains a notable entry in the cannon of 1960s dramas. So grab your popcorn, and give it a whirl! Whether you’re in it for the nostalgia or the story, this could just be the cinematic masterpiece your classic movie night is missing.