Lust for Gold is a captivating film that blends elements of film noir, western, and true crime. Released in 1949, it tells the story of the legendary Lost Dutchman Mine in Arizona’s Superstition Mountains. Based on Barry Storm’s book, Thunder God’s Gold, the film has inspired many treasure hunters to seek out the elusive mine.
Key points
Story Behind the Film
The film opens with a modern-day adventurer, Barry Storm, played by William Prince. He is a descendant of Jacob Waltz, the infamous Dutchman. As he explores the rugged landscape, he uncovers a contemporary murder that leads him to the dark history of the Lost Dutchman Mine.
The narrative shifts back to the 19th century, where we meet Jacob Waltz, portrayed by Glenn Ford. Waltz is depicted as a lonely immigrant who becomes entangled with Julia Thomas, played by Ida Lupino. Julia’s husband, Emil Thomas (Gig Young), is a jealous man who is eager to seize the gold for himself. The film weaves these two storylines together, culminating in intense and violent finales.
The Legend of the Lost Dutchman Mine
The Lost Dutchman Mine is a tale that has fascinated treasure hunters for generations. The film suggests that the mine holds a treasure worth twenty million dollars, hidden by the Peralta family, who were killed in an Apache raid. The legend states that Jacob Waltz discovered this treasure and killed three men to keep it a secret.
In 1947, Columbia Pictures acquired the rights to Barry Storm’s book, intending to adapt it into a film. The screenplay was written by Ted Sherdeman and Richard English, and the film was directed by S. Sylvan Simon. The studio aimed to compete with Republic Pictures’ Treasure of the Sierra Madre, which starred Humphrey Bogart.
Filming Locations and Authenticity
Much of Lust for Gold was filmed on location along the Apache Trail, with stunning views of the Superstition Mountains. The film opens with a breathtaking scene of the mountains, narrated to emphasize their danger and allure. The filmmakers even sought a letter of authenticity from Arizona’s Governor Dan E. Garvey, who confirmed the story’s basis in truth.
However, while the film captures the beauty of the landscape, it also takes creative liberties. For instance, Barry Storm’s character runs thirty-six miles to report a murder, a distance that doesn’t accurately reflect the geography of the area.
Characters and Their Stories
The film features a strong cast, including Glenn Ford as Jacob Waltz, Ida Lupino as Julia Thomas, and Gig Young as Emil Thomas. Each character plays a crucial role in the unfolding drama.
Waltz is portrayed as a complex anti-hero, a lonely man driven by greed and paranoia. Julia Thomas is depicted as a femme fatale, manipulating Waltz while her husband lurks in the background, waiting for his chance to claim the treasure.
However, the film’s portrayal of these characters is not entirely accurate. Historical records suggest that Jacob Waltz was well-liked and not the ruthless murderer depicted in the film. In reality, he was a respected figure who participated in local elections and was known for his kindness.
Impact of Lust for Gold
Despite its flaws, Lust for Gold has left a lasting impact on the legend of the Lost Dutchman Mine. The film has inspired countless treasure hunters to search for the mine, and many have learned about its history through this movie.
Barry Storm, who wrote the book the film is based on, lived in a cave near Tortilla Flat while researching the legend. His experiences and beliefs shaped the narrative of both the book and the film, but some of his claims have been challenged by historians.
Film’s Production Challenges
The production of Lust for Gold was not without its difficulties. Barry Storm filed a lawsuit against Columbia Pictures, claiming they misrepresented him as Jacob Waltz’s grandson. The studio eventually settled, but the legal battles added to the film’s challenges.
Director S. Sylvan Simon faced obstacles in creating realistic scenes, such as the earthquake and rattlesnake moments. While the film’s stunts were impressive for their time, some elements, like the rubber rattlesnake, fell short of expectations.
Conclusion: A Cult Classic
While Lust for Gold may not have achieved the same level of acclaim as Treasure of the Sierra Madre, it remains a cult classic. The film’s blend of adventure, mystery, and historical intrigue continues to captivate audiences.
Today, you can still catch Lust for Gold on late-night television or during special screenings. Its legacy lives on, inspiring new generations to explore the legends of the Superstition Mountains and the elusive Lost Dutchman Mine.
