Day 211 - The Treasure of the Sierra Madre

Thursday November 17, 2011


The Treasure of the Sierra Madre (1948) directed by John Huston

"Sharing is caring."

I have to say that I was really shocked by the tone of this movie. I had no idea it was so dark and cynical. I just assumed it would be a standard buddy picture about three guys going up to the mountain to dig up some gold, learn about friendship, have a big showdown with some bandits, get rich and live happily ever after. As it turns out, money does indeed ruin friendships and the movie is all about mistrust, betrayal and greed. It is strange to say this about a 60 plus year old movie, but it was really refreshing to see such a non-standard movie.

Throughout the entire movie Dobbs is a cold hearted dude. The very first scene we see him in he splashes water in a kid's face. He doesn't think twice about asking the same guy for money three times in the same day. He is greedy, selfish and extremely cynical of others. Despite that you expect him to grow and learn, but nope, this movie isn't about heart warming lessons. It asks the age old question, "What would you do for money?" and gives a pretty realistic answer in Dobbs's character. He is who he is, an opportunist and kind of a bastard. The movie isn't about the adventure or the gold, it is a test of morals and character and Dobbs fails big time.

The film is driven by the three leads, Humphrey Bogart as Dobbs, Tim Holt as Curtin and Walter Huston as Howard. The three are perfect matches for each other and are magnificent. Dobbs's regression throughout the film is something straight out of Shakespeare; there is something unsettling about Bogart's crazed expressions and paranoia. Curtin is a fellow traveller who quickly becomes Dobbs's best friend and partner. He is also tested throughout the film and goes through his ups and downs. At one point, he is tempted to leave Dobbs trapped in a cave-in so he could take his share of the gold, but ultimately saves him. At another point, he unceremoniously agrees to kill a passerby who wants in on the action. But he is unquestionably a good guy in the film and a saint when contrasted with Dobbs. The most surprising character is Howard, the old time prospector full of wisdom and charm. He is the teacher and father figure of the trio. He is sort of characterized as the stereotypical old timer in his rapid fire dialogue and simple wit, but is undoubtedly the smartest of the three. Experience has taught him that gold will change a man and he is absolutely right.

The film is surprisingly funny at times and a great adventure picture. But more importantly it is a great character study and is not afraid to shy away from harsh realities. It would be so easy for the film to go in the opposite direction, the way you'd assume it would, and it would still probably be a fine film. But it is its cynicism that makes it great.

Grade: A