Details
In the movie Wild River (1960), a young field administrator for the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is tasked with overseeing the construction of a dam on the Tennessee River in rural Tennessee. However, he faces resistance from the local community, especially from a farmer who objects to him employing local black laborers and paying them.
The film delves into the story of the eviction of an elderly woman who lives on an island in the river. As the young administrator grapples with the dilemma of displacing a long-time resident, he finds himself falling in love with the woman's widowed granddaughter.
Wild River explores themes of progress, cultural conflict, and forbidden love. The movie portrays the efforts of the TVA to bring modernization to an economically struggling community while also highlighting the hardships faced by those affected by the dam construction.
Director Elia Kazan masterfully creates a visually stunning and emotionally charged narrative, examining the complexities of identity and societal norms. The performances by the cast, including Montgomery Clift as the conflicted field administrator and Lee Remick as the passionate granddaughter, are captivating and bring depth to the characters.
Wild River is a thought-provoking and engaging film that touches upon the human cost of progress, making it a must-watch for fans of classic cinema.
