SYNOPSIS: "The Southerner" (1945) is a poignant drama directed by Jean Renoir, based on George Sessions Perry's novel "Hold Autumn in Your Hand." The film tells the story of Sam Tucker, played by Zachary Scott, a sharecropper in Texas who decides to take a bold step towards independence by farming his own land. Along with his wife, Nona (Betty Field), their children, and his feisty Granny (Beulah Bondi), Sam faces the harsh realities of rural life. The family endures numerous hardships, including poverty, illness, and the unforgiving elements. Their determination and resilience are tested as they struggle to transform a dilapidated piece of land into a productive farm. Despite these challenges, the Tuckers remain hopeful and tenacious, embodying the spirit of perseverance and the American dream. Renoir's direction emphasizes the human connection to the land and the communal effort required to overcome adversity, making "The Southerner" a powerful depiction of rural American life and the universal struggle for self-sufficiency and dignity.

PLOT Spoiler Alert: Sam Tucker, a resilient and determined sharecropper in rural Texas, decides to leave behind the transient life of working on someone else's land to pursue his dream of owning and cultivating his own farm. Alongside his supportive wife, Nona, their two young children, Jot and Daisy, and his cantankerous Granny, Sam moves to a rundown farmhouse in search of independence and a better future.

The Tuckers are immediately faced with a series of daunting obstacles. The house is in disrepair, the land is parched and uncultivated, and their resources are minimal. Despite the initial setbacks, the family works tirelessly to make the best of their new situation. Sam's resolve is tested when Granny refuses to adapt to the new environment and their neighbor, Devers, proves to be unhelpful and antagonistic. Devers, suspicious and resentful of Sam’s ambitions, constantly challenges their progress, adding another layer of difficulty to their already arduous journey.

A significant turning point occurs when Nona falls severely ill from malnutrition and the children also suffer from the lack of proper food. Lacking the financial means to seek medical help, Sam is forced to rely on the generosity and knowledge of a local doctor, Dr. White, who advises them on how to make the best of their limited resources. This marks a poignant moment of vulnerability for the family, highlighting the dire conditions they must overcome.

Their plight is somewhat alleviated by Tim, another neighbor who becomes a crucial ally. Tim's assistance and camaraderie provide the Tuckers with much-needed support, both morally and practically. Together, they work to plant the crops, mend the house, and battle the elements. The physical labor and communal effort begin to bear fruit, symbolizing the potential for success and stability.

However, their journey is far from smooth. A fierce storm hits, threatening to wash away their hard-earned progress and devastate their crops. In a dramatic and emotional climax, the family and their friends band together to protect the farm. The storm tests their endurance and unity but ultimately reinforces the film’s central theme: the strength found in community and perseverance.

Despite the hardships, the Tuckers’ efforts start to pay off. The once barren land begins to flourish, and the family’s spirit remains unbroken. By the end of the film, they have transformed not only the physical landscape but also their own lives, embodying the tenacity and hope that the film celebrates. Sam’s journey from a mere sharecropper to an independent farmer serves as an inspiring testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring quest for a better life.

"The Southerner" eloquently captures the essence of rural American life during the era, highlighting both the struggles and the rewards of agrarian perseverance. The film’s focus on family dynamics, the importance of neighborly support, and the relentless pursuit of dreams amidst adversity provides a rich, layered narrative that resonates deeply with audiences.

PRODUCTION: "The Southerner" (1945), directed by Jean Renoir, represents a notable period in the acclaimed French director's career when he was working in Hollywood during World War II. Renoir, known for his poetic realism, brought a unique perspective to this quintessentially American story. The film's screenplay, based on George Sessions Perry's novel "Hold Autumn in Your Hand," was adapted by Hugo Butler, with contributions from Nunnally Johnson and an uncredited William Faulkner, adding literary depth to the narrative.

Producer David L. Loew, recognizing Renoir's talent, gave him the creative freedom to bring his vision to life despite a modest budget. This budget constraint necessitated innovative and resourceful filmmaking techniques. Renoir's commitment to authenticity led him to shoot on location in rural Texas, a decision that brought a genuine feel to the portrayal of the Tuckers' struggles. The realistic depiction of the harsh yet hopeful rural landscape was further enhanced by the work of cinematographer Lucien Andriot, whose use of natural light and outdoor settings created a vivid and immersive atmosphere.

The casting was pivotal to the film's success. Zachary Scott, primarily known for his roles in film noir, was cast against type as the determined and hopeful sharecropper Sam Tucker.

Betty Field, known for her ability to portray strong, nuanced characters, played Sam's supportive wife, Nona. Beulah Bondi, a seasoned character actress, delivered a standout performance as the cantankerous Granny, adding depth and authenticity to the family dynamic. Supporting performances by actors such as J. Carrol Naish and Charles Kemper further enriched the film.

Renoir's directorial approach was marked by his focus on character development and his ability to elicit deeply emotional performances from his cast. He fostered a collaborative environment on set, allowing actors to explore their characters fully. This approach resulted in performances that were both naturalistic and compelling, aligning with Renoir's vision of capturing the human condition's complexities.

The film's production design, overseen by Eugène Lourié, also played a crucial role in creating a believable setting. The detailed and realistic set pieces, from the dilapidated farmhouse to the expansive cotton fields, contributed to the film's immersive quality.

Composer Werner Janssen’s score added a poignant layer to the film, enhancing its emotional impact without overshadowing the narrative.

Despite the financial and logistical challenges, "The Southerner" emerged as a powerful and poignant film that highlighted the resilience and determination of American farmers. Renoir's ability to blend his European sensibilities with the American setting resulted in a film that was both artistically significant and socially relevant, resonating deeply with audiences and critics alike.

RELEASE: "The Southerner" (1945), directed by Jean Renoir, was released by United Artists on April 30, 1945. The film premiered in New York City and received critical acclaim for its realistic portrayal of rural American life and the human spirit's resilience. Despite initial concerns about its commercial viability due to its somber themes and lack of star power, the film garnered positive reviews for its authentic storytelling and powerful performances. Critics praised Zachary Scott's portrayal of Sam Tucker, Betty Field's nuanced performance as Nona Tucker, and Beulah Bondi's memorable role as Granny.

The film's release was timely, coinciding with the end of World War II and resonating with audiences looking for stories of hope and perseverance. "The Southerner" received four Academy Award nominations, including Best Director for Jean Renoir, Best Supporting Actress for Beulah Bondi, Best Sound Recording, and Best Music Score of a Dramatic or Comedy Picture. While it did not win any Oscars, the film solidified Renoir's reputation in Hollywood and remains a notable entry in American cinema for its poignant exploration of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

In addition to its critical acclaim and Academy Award nominations, it has left a lasting impact on American cinema for several reasons. It marked a significant achievement in director Jean Renoir's career during his tenure in Hollywood, showcasing his ability to blend European cinematic sensibilities with American storytelling traditions. The film's portrayal of rural poverty and resilience resonated deeply with audiences, reflecting the social and economic challenges of its time. Despite its modest box office success initially, "The Southerner" has since gained recognition as a classic of American cinema, praised for its lyrical direction, authentic performances, and evocative portrayal of the American South. Its inclusion in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress further solidifies its cultural significance, ensuring its preservation for future generations to appreciate its timeless themes and artistic merits.

CAST:

• Zachary Scott as Sam Tucker

• Betty Field as Nona Tucker

• Beulah Bondi as Granny

• J. Carrol Naish as Devers

• Percy Kilbride as Harmie

• Charles Kemper as Tim

• Blanche Yurka as Mama

• Norman Lloyd as Finley

• Estelle Taylor as Lizzie

• Paul Harvey as Ruston

• Noreen Nash as Becky Devers

• Jack Norworth as Dr. White

• Nestor Paiva as Bartender

• Paul E. Burns as Uncle Pete Tucker

• Jay Gilpin as Jot Tucker

• Jean Vancerwilt as Daisy Tucker

CREW:

• Director: Jean Renoir

• Producer: Robert Hakim, David L. Loew

• Writers: Hugo Butler (screenplay), George Sessions Perry (novel)

• Cinematographer: Lucien Andriot

• Editor: Gregg C. Tallas

• Music: Werner Janssen

• Art Director: Eugène Lourié

Production Company: Producing Artists, Jean Renoir Productions
Distributor: United Artists

Release Date: May 18 1945
Country of Origin: United States
Running Time: 92 minutes
Budget: Estimated $750,000
Box Office Return: N/A

IMDB Rating =  7.1 / 10

TRIVIA:

• Based on the novel "Hold Autumn in Your Hand" by George Sessions Perry, which won the first National Book Award in 1941.

• Director Jean Renoir earned his only Academy Award nomination for Best Director for this film.

• The film faced censorship in Memphis upon release, criticized for its portrayal of the South.

• "Spring sickness" mentioned in the film refers to pellagra, caused by a niacin deficiency.

• The calendar shown in the film displays dates from 1944.

• Jean Renoir wanted to film on location in Texas but was restricted by wartime transportation limitations.

• Farmers referred to February 28 and 29 in leap years as "twin days."

• Sam Tucker's hope for 2 bales of cotton per acre in the film was considered an exceptional yield.

• Joel McCrea and Frances Dee were originally cast but replaced due to creative differences with Renoir.

• Estelle Taylor made her final film appearance and first significant role in ten years.

• Zachary Scott was borrowed from Warner Bros. for his role in the film.

• Posters for films shown in the local theater within the film include "One Rainy Afternoon" (1936), "Vogues of 1938" (1937), and "Intermezzo" (1939).

• Several uncredited writers contributed to the screenplay, including reputedly William Faulkner.

• The earliest documented telecast of the film was in San Francisco on August 6, 1951, on Chevrolet Movie Time on KRON.

• The film's score was composed by Werner Janssen, who also received an Academy Award nomination for Best Music Score of a Dramatic or Comedy Picture.

• Beulah Bondi, who played Granny Tucker, received her second Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the film.

• The film was initially titled "The Farmer" during production but was changed to "The Southerner" to better reflect its themes and setting.

• Jean Renoir, known for his humanistic approach to filmmaking, aimed to depict the struggles and resilience of rural life authentically, without sentimentality.

• The character of Finley was played by Norman Lloyd, who later became a well-known actor and producer in Hollywood.

"The Southerner" remains a poignant drama from 1945, renowned for its realistic portrayal of rural life, strong performances, and evocative cinematography, continuing to resonate with audiences for its themes of resilience, perseverance, and the human spirit.