Valley of Decision (1945) Movie Review & Film Summary A Gilded Age Tale of Love, Strife, and Industrial Ambitions
Key Points
“Valley of Decision,” directed by Tay Garnett, is a compelling film set in Pittsburgh during the 1870s. The movie weaves a rich tapestry of love, industrial ambition, and class conflict, echoing the themes of “The Magnificent Ambersons,” “Titanic,” and the works of Edna Ferber. At the heart of this story are the Scotts, a prominent family running a successful steel mill, and the Raffertys, a working-class family deeply affected by the steel industry.
The Scott Family
The Scott family, led by patriarch William Scott (Donald Crisp), represents the industrial elite. William’s wife, Clarissa (Gladys Cooper), and their children—Paul (Gregory Peck), William Jr. (Dan Duryea), Ted (Marshall Thompson), and Constance (Marsha Hunt)—embody the diverse responses to newfound wealth. While William and Paul strive to maintain their working-class dignity despite their wealth, other family members indulge in upper-class extravagance.
Paul Scott, the eldest son, is the driving force behind the family’s industrial ambitions. Having traveled across Europe and observed advanced steel production techniques, he is determined to modernize the family business. His vision includes building a state-of-the-art smelter to compete with giants like Carnegie, risking the family’s fortunes in the process.
The Rafferty Family
On the other side of Pittsburgh, the Rafferty family lives in stark contrast. Pat Rafferty (Lionel Barrymore), once a steelworker, is left crippled by a workplace accident. Although the Scotts kept him on full pay, his injury breeds resentment against the family. Pat’s daughter, Mary Rafferty (Greer Garson), embodies resilience and grace despite her family’s hardships.
Mary’s life takes a dramatic turn when she secures a job as a maid at the Scott mansion. Her kindness and hard work quickly endear her to the Scotts, blurring the lines between employer and servant. As Paul falls in love with Mary, the film explores the complexities of their relationship against the backdrop of societal expectations and industrial challenges.
Love, Ambition, and Class Struggle
Paul’s proposal to Mary brings the film’s central conflict into sharp focus. Mary’s sense of duty and decency leads her to reject Paul’s proposal, fearing she would hinder his ambitions. This decision also impacts her other suitor, Jim Brennan (Preston Foster), who is the head of the steelworkers’ union and lives with her father.
Meanwhile, Paul faces romantic advances from his childhood friend, Louise Kane (Jessica Tandy), a symbol of Gilded Age aristocracy. Despite Louise’s allure, Paul’s love for Mary remains unwavering. The couple’s relationship becomes a beacon of hope amidst the turmoil brewing in Pittsburgh’s steel industry.
Industrial Conflict and Tragic Consequences
As tensions escalate, the Scott steel mill faces labor unrest. Pat Rafferty, driven by his resentment, stirs agitation among the workers. Strikes and violence threaten to engulf the mill, pushing the Scotts to the brink. In a desperate move, William Jr. calls in strikebreakers from Detroit, escalating the conflict further.
Mary’s intervention brings a temporary truce between the union and the Scotts. However, the peace is short-lived as youngest Scott brother Ted, fails to prevent the arrival of strikebreakers due to his intoxication. The ensuing violence leads to tragic consequences, shattering the fragile peace and the hopes of Paul and Mary.
The Aftermath
The film’s climax is marked by genuine tragedy, tearing apart Paul and Mary. Paul, heartbroken and disillusioned, marries Louise, but their union is fraught with unhappiness. Louise’s desire to raise their son as a layabout dandy clashes with Paul’s industrialist ideals. Meanwhile, other Scott family members push to sell the mill for quick profits, further straining family bonds.
“Valley of Decision” stands out for its emotional depth and well-crafted narrative. Directed by Tay Garnett, known for “Mrs. Parkington” and “The Postman Always Rings Twice,” the film masterfully balances personal and societal conflicts. The cast delivers powerful performances, bringing to life the struggles and aspirations of their characters.
Themes and Legacy
“Valley of Decision” addresses several pertinent themes, including labor relations, capitalist ethics, and the clash between socio-economic spheres. The film’s portrayal of industrial strife and its impact on personal relationships remains relevant, offering insights into the human cost of progress.
Gregory Peck and Greer Garson’s chemistry anchors the film, making their characters’ love story both poignant and memorable. The supporting cast, including Donald Crisp, Lionel Barrymore, and Jessica Tandy, adds depth to the narrative, enhancing the film’s emotional resonance.
In conclusion, “Valley of Decision” is a captivating blend of romance, drama, and socio-economic commentary. It offers a window into a transformative era in American history, highlighting the human element amidst industrial upheaval. The film’s ability to navigate complex themes with sensitivity and nuance makes it a timeless classic, deserving of its place in the annals of cinematic history.
