The Chase

The Chase is a 1966 American drama thriller film directed by Arthur Penn, starring Marlon Brando, Robert Redford, and Jane Fonda. The movie is based on a 1956 novel of the same name by Daniel Mainwaring, also known as Geoffrey Homes. The story revolves around the escape of a man named Bubber Reeves, an escaped convict, and its impact on a small Southern town in Texas during the Great Depression. The film opens with the release of Bubber Reeves (played by Robert Redford) from prison, who had been serving a sentence for forgery. Reeves makes his way to a small railroad town in Texas, where his family resides, including his pregnant wife, Anita (played by Jane Fonda), and their two young daughters. Upon his arrival, Reeves is determined to reconnect with his family, leave his past life behind, and start a new life free from the stigma of being an ex-felon. However, the arrival of Reeves sets off a chain of events that affects the entire town. The local sheriff, Big Bill Munn (played by Robert F. Simon), had been investigating Reeves' family for suspected involvement in his escape, and now sees Reeves as an individual to apprehend. Munn's motives are twofold: not only does he see Reeves as a threat to order and stability, but also he wants to gain the respect of the townspeople by capturing the escaped convict. As Reeves becomes increasingly involved with his family and starts to build a new life, tensions rise between him and the townspeople, particularly the Sheriff. The Sheriff's relentless pursuit of Reeves creates a deep divide within the community, with some residents sympathizing with the escaped convict and others eager to have him recaptured. The conflict escalates, leading to a series of events where Reeves becomes the focal point of the town's attention. One of the most significant characters in the film is Leland Folgram (played by Marlon Brando), Reeves' brother-in-law, who is a ruthless and unscrupulous individual. Folgram is married to Reeves' ex-wife, Ellen, and views Reeves as a threat to his own existence and social status. His animosity towards Reeves drives a significant portion of the film's conflict and sets the stage for a climactic showdown between the two men. As the narrative unfolds, Arthur Penn's masterful direction masterfully weaves together elements of tension, suspense, and social commentary. The Chase explores themes of redemption, social status, and the complexities of human relationships. Through Reeves' character, the film humanizes an individual who has committed crimes, highlighting the struggles he faces upon release from prison and the desire to reconnect with his family. The performances by the cast, particularly Robert Redford and Marlon Brando, are exceptional. Redford captures the complexity of Reeve's character, conveying a sense of vulnerability and determination that is both poignant and compelling. Marlon Brando brings depth and nuance to the role of Leland Folgram, whose Machiavellian tactics and motives make him an intriguing and formidable opponent for Reeves. The film's climax is intense and suspenseful, with a series of high-stakes confrontations that drive the narrative towards its conclusion. As the conflict reaches a boiling point, Reeves is forced to make a difficult decision that will alter his life and the lives of those around him. Ultimately, The Chase is a powerful exploration of the tensions between individuals and society, the human condition, and the search for redemption. The film raises questions about the nature of justice, the role of authority figures, and the impact of social stigma on those who have committed crimes. The Chase is a gripping drama that will keep viewers engaged until the very end, leaving a lasting impression long after the credits roll.