Enter the zany world of politics with The Dark Horse, a fast-paced and hilarious pre-Code comedy from 1932, now beautifully colorized for a viewing experience like never before. This film, starring Warren William and Bette Davis, satirizes the absurdity of political campaigns and the lengths people will go to for power. Perfect for classic film enthusiasts and those who enjoy witty, fast-talking comedies, this HD download brings a forgotten gem of early Hollywood to your screen.
The Dark Horse follows the chaotic events surrounding the selection of a presidential nominee for a struggling political party. When the party’s leading candidate suddenly dies, they are left scrambling for a replacement. The opportunistic Sam Wilson (Warren William), a professional campaign manager, sees his chance for advancement and convinces the party bosses to nominate Zachary T. Hicks (Guy Kibbee), an unassuming and somewhat clueless man, as their “dark horse” candidate.Sam believes he can easily manipulate Hicks, but he underestimates the power of public opinion and the unexpected influence of Hicks’s fiery and independent-minded daughter, Kay (Bette Davis). As Sam orchestrates a series of publicity stunts and backroom deals, Hicks surprisingly gains popularity, threatening Sam’s carefully laid plans. The film explores themes of political corruption, manipulation, and the unpredictable nature of public sentiment. Ultimately, The Dark Horse is a sharp and satirical look at the absurdities of American politics and the power of the underdog.
The film features a stellar cast of actors who bring this comedic tale to life:
The Dark Horse falls into the genre of pre-Code political comedy, known for its fast-paced dialogue, satirical humor, and irreverent attitude towards authority. Its witty script and engaging performances make it a delightful and thought-provoking film.
Released in 1932, The Dark Horse reflected the cynicism and disillusionment that many Americans felt towards politics during the Great Depression. The film lampooned the corrupt practices and self-serving motives that often drove political campaigns, offering a comedic release from the anxieties of the era. Its satire of the political system and its celebration of the underdog resonated with audiences who were struggling to make ends meet and felt powerless against the forces of economic hardship.
This colorized version of The Dark Horse has been meticulously restored using modern digital techniques, enhancing the visual appeal while preserving the film’s original comedic timing and sharp wit. The colorization process involved carefully analyzing the grayscale tones of the original black and white footage and assigning appropriate colors to each scene. While the specific software used remains proprietary, the techniques employed included advanced algorithms for color palette selection and image enhancement. This painstaking process brings new life to the characters and settings, making the story even more engaging for modern audiences. While some may debate the merits of colorizing classic films, it introduces these films to a broader audience, ensuring their legacy for future generations.
The Dark Horse (1932) is celebrated for its witty script, fast-paced direction, and strong comedic performances, particularly Warren William’s portrayal of the opportunistic Sam Wilson and Bette Davis’s feisty performance as Kay. While not as widely known as some of the era’s other comedies, it remains a delightful example of pre-Code Hollywood satire and a hidden gem for fans of classic film.
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