The Great Dan Patch

The Great Dan Patch, released in 1932, is a romantic drama film set against the backdrop of the Indiana horse-racing scene. The movie tells the story of a young man's return to his rural roots and his complicated love life, as he navigates between his ambitions, family ties, and personal desires. The film begins with David Palmer, a young and ambitious chemist, returning to his father's farm in Indiana to marry Ruth Treadwell, a school teacher he falls in love with. Ruth is a socially ambitious woman who sees marriage as a means to elevate her status, and she initially views David's humble background as a hindrance to her own aspirations. David's father, who has spent years struggling to make a name for himself in the world of horse-trainers, is skeptical of their marriage due to Ruth's seemingly pretentious nature. Upon his father's passing, David is left to inherit the family farm, and he is forced to reconcile with his own roots and passions, which lie in the world of harness racing. The farm has a rich history, and David's father, a skilled horse-trainer, has a reputation for being one of the best. David becomes re-acquainted with Ben Lathrop, his father's trusted horse-trainer and a man who has known David since childhood. Ben has a daughter, Cissy, who is young, beautiful, and fiercely independent. Cissy has left high school to help her father with the farm and the horses, and she shares a deep understanding with the animals, especially a magnificent horse named the Great Dan Patch. David and Cissy strike up a conversation, and their connection becomes palpable as they bond over their shared love of horse racing. Cissy, unlike Ruth, is genuine and kind-hearted, and David finds himself drawn to her warmth and authenticity. As David spends more time on the farm, he becomes increasingly conflicted between his love for Ruth and his growing feelings for Cissy. His relationship with Ruth is strained due to her pretentious nature and lack of interest in his world, while his connection with Cissy is authentic and free from societal expectations. David becomes determined to prove himself as a skilled horse-trainer, just like his father, and he throws himself into the world of harness racing. With the help of Ben and Cissy, he begins to hone his skills, and the Great Dan Patch becomes his prized horse. As David's reputation as a horse-trainer grows, so does his passion for Cissy. His love for her becomes stronger, and he finds it harder to ignore the genuine connection they share. Ruth, on the other hand, becomes increasingly distant and unsupportive of David's newfound love for harness racing and Cissy. Her lack of appreciation for his hard work and dedication creates tension in their marriage, and David is forced to choose between his duty to Ruth and his true desires for Cissy. In the end, David makes a final decision that will define his future. With his love for Cissy now stronger than ever, he must decide whether to follow his heart or continue to indulge in his societal ambitions. The Great Dan Patch is a poignant and nostalgic film that celebrates the beauty of rural America, the joy of horse racing, and the power of true love. Set against the backdrop of a bygone era, the movie boasts stunning cinematography, memorable characters, and an engaging storyline that will leave viewers captivated and inspired. With a talented cast and exceptional filmmaking, The Great Dan Patch remains a hidden gem of early 1930s American cinema, waiting to be rediscovered by new generations of movie enthusiasts.