Too bad THE CALL OF THE WILD wasn't filmed in color because it looks mighty picturesque in classic B&W cinematography filmed in Washington state. CLARK GABLE, as a gold prospector, and LORETTA YOUNG, as his female interest, provide the right chemistry for the romantic angle of the tale. JACK OAKIE is along to supply some laughs that seem forced and not really necessary--but fans of outdoor adventures will surely like this Jack London tale that has been turned into a vehicle for Gable and Young.
BUCK, the dog, is especially impressive as an animal caught between the "call of the wild"--wolves, that is--and his human relationship with owner Gable. He's good at showing little nuances that indicate he's uncertain whether to leave Gable or not to follow his natural instincts when he hears the cry of the wolves.
REGINALD OWEN makes an impressive villain and FRANK CONROY is fine as Loretta's husband. Most chilling scene of all has the greedy men who steal the gold drowning in the rapids when their canoe overturns and they're dragged down by the weight of the gold they're carrying.
The chemistry between Gable and Young is strong--and she looks lovelier than ever in all her close-ups. Most fans know that she and Gable were having a torrid romance at the time.
BUCK, the dog, is especially impressive as an animal caught between the "call of the wild"--wolves, that is--and his human relationship with owner Gable. He's good at showing little nuances that indicate he's uncertain whether to leave Gable or not to follow his natural instincts when he hears the cry of the wolves.
REGINALD OWEN makes an impressive villain and FRANK CONROY is fine as Loretta's husband. Most chilling scene of all has the greedy men who steal the gold drowning in the rapids when their canoe overturns and they're dragged down by the weight of the gold they're carrying.
The chemistry between Gable and Young is strong--and she looks lovelier than ever in all her close-ups. Most fans know that she and Gable were having a torrid romance at the time.