Review of The Petrified Forest (1973) by Gerardo R — 17 Aug 2012

A stage play that was seamlessly transferred to the screen. It is a great example of dialogue driven melodrama. It is a film about ideas, mostly the ideas of Howard's character. It is a reflection on life and the motivations that drive people to live fully and care for others.

This was Bogart's beginning to fame after previous failed attempts. His character is grim and menacing from the beginning. His classic tough persona begins here. The action carefully moves from the initial expansive shots of the Arizona desert into a closed set diner which adds to a claustrophobic sense that builds up to the climax.

Howard plays a carefree character who is traveling the United States with the power of the thumb. He comes across a diner where he meets a lovely woman that is willing to listen to his philosophical ramblings and is an example of kindness that he has not seen in a long while. Howard plays a charismatic and humorous character. Howard's monologues are not realistic, but meant as food for thought. Davis plays the love-stricken woman and plays well as the non-intellectual counterpart with big dreams. In the meantime a notorious criminal was running from the law at the same time. Soon Howard and the rest of the cast find themselves hostages to the Duke Mantee in the lonely diner in the middle of the desert. The Duke is waiting for the rest of his gang to catch up to him. In the diner, the director cleverly has Bogart sit so that the horns of a moose behind him appear to come out of Bogart himself.

The lively characters and constant interaction between all the actors make it a great film to watch and provides depth to the script. You really get to know the characters and although the contrast between them are sometimes exaggerated, they are fun to watch. This film is strongly recommended for those who enjoy stage plays, character movies and the lead actors (Howard, Davis and Bogart).