The Great Dan Patch (1949)
Directed by Joseph M. Newman / Joseph Newman
Genres - Drama, Romance, Sports & Recreation |
Sub-Genres - Biopic [feature], Docudrama, Sports Drama |
Release Date - Jul 22, 1949 (USA), Nov 8, 1949 (USA - Unknown) |
Run Time - 92 min. |
Countries - United States |
MPAA Rating - NR
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Synopsis by Hal Erickson
Though occasionally hampered by its tiny budget, The Great Dan Patch is a reasonably satisfying horse story. The title character was, of course, one of the greatest harness-race horses that ever drew breath. But since Dan Patch couldn't deliver dialogue or conduct an acceptable on-screen romance, the film concentrates on his owner, chemist David Palmer (Dennis O'Keefe). Saddled with an unsympathetic socialite spouse (Ruth Warrick) who cares nothing for horses, Palmer eventually finds happiness with Cissy Lathrop (Gail Russell), the daughter of Dan Patch's trainer (John Hoyt). Black actor Clarence Muse, a "regular" in horse operas of this type, contributes some good moments, including a couple of nice songs.
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Themes
Keywords
horse, horse-racing, horse-trainer, marital-problems, owner, socialite, daughter