The Lasting Legacy of “The Hanging Tree”
It’s been over six decades since the Western classic “The Hanging Tree” was first introduced to audiences. Directed by the acclaimed Delmer Daves, this 1959 gem, based on Dorothy M. Johnson’s novelette, has managed to maintain a captivating presence, as evidenced by its commendable 72% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes. While the performances of Gary Cooper and Maria Schell are undeniably riveting, another star of the film is the breathtaking locations that serve as its backdrop. It’s not just about where the story takes place, but how those locations amplify the tale’s emotional depths.
Deciphering the World of John Frail and Elizabeth Mahler
Our protagonist, John Frail, portrayed by the iconic Gary Cooper, is a man haunted by his past. Arriving in town, he desires a fresh start, away from the shadows that haunt him. His narrative intricately intertwines with that of Swiss immigrant Elizabeth Mahler, played by the luminous Maria Schell. After a traumatic stagecoach robbery that leaves her blind, Elizabeth finds solace and an unexpected connection with Frail.
Washington Disguised as Montana
Delmer Daves, known for his unmatched talent in the Western genre, brilliantly uses settings that, while not true to the movie’s Montana label, encapsulate the spirit and raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Gold Prospecting in Nile, Washington
In an essential part of the story, Elizabeth, Rune, and Frenchy come together with dreams of striking gold. The trio’s efforts to unearth a treasure beneath a colossal tree stump find them in the wild terrains of Nile, Washington. The lushness of the region, combined with its untamed appeal, makes for a convincing Montana wilderness. It’s in this vastness that the movie gracefully explores its characters’ emotional depths.
Yakima: The Heart of “The Hanging Tree”
Joseph Frail’s journey, be it as a doctor or a gunslinger, leads him to Skull Creek, Montana. However, the magic of cinema takes us instead to Yakima, Washington. The mesmerizing landscapes of Yakima, with its trees, mountains, and the pristine beauty typical of the Pacific Northwest, seamlessly transport the audience to Skull Creek. The authenticity of the locale, combined with its visual similarity to Montana, ensures that viewers remain none the wiser.
Goose Prairie’s Enigmatic Introduction
As the curtains lift on “The Hanging Tree,” the audience finds itself in Goose Prairie, Washington. It’s here that we first encounter Joseph, who valiantly saves Rune, a young man in dire straits. The ruggedness of Goose Prairie, with its mountains and simplistic architecture, sets the tone for the movie, ushering the audience into a world of conflict, redemption, and undying hope.
In Conclusion
The magic of “The Hanging Tree” is not just in its compelling storyline or the power-packed performances but also in the meticulously chosen locations that breathe life into every frame. Through the landscapes of Washington, Daves crafts a Montana that remains etched in the hearts of audiences, proving that sometimes the real magic lies behind the scenes.
