Boom Town

19401h 59m Directed by Jack Conway
6.9
(55 votes)
AdventureDramaRomanceWestern

Overview

Two buddies who rise from fly-by-night wildcatters to oil tycoons over a twenty year period both love the same woman. McMasters and Sand come to oil towns to get rich. Betsy comes West intending to marry Sand but marries McMasters instead. Getting rich and losing it all teaches McMasters and Sand the value of personal ties.

Boom Town

A Timeless Tale of Friendship and Fortune: "Boom Town" Review

Diego Santillán
Diego SantillánSep 28, 2025
"Boom Town" is a classic drama film that tells the story of two friends, McMasters and Sand, who rise to wealth and fame in the oil industry, but not without facing numerous challenges and personal struggles along the way. The movie, released in 1940, is a timeless tale of friendship, love, and the corrupting influence of wealth. With a talented cast, including Clark Gable and Spencer Tracy, "Boom Town" is a must-see for fans of classic Hollywood cinema. The film's themes of perseverance, loyalty, and the importance of personal relationships are just as relevant today as they were when the movie was first released.

The movie's narrative is engaging and well-paced, with a non-linear storyline that spans twenty years. The film's use of flashbacks and montages effectively conveys the passage of time and the characters' growth and development. The chemistry between Gable and Tracy is undeniable, and their characters' friendship is genuinely believable. The supporting cast, including Claudette Colbert and Hedy Lamarr, also deliver strong performances. The film's cinematography is also noteworthy, with stunning shots of the American West and the oil fields that serve as the backdrop for the story. The movie's themes of love, friendship, and the American Dream are classic and universal, making "Boom Town" a film that will resonate with audiences of all ages.

One of the most striking aspects of "Boom Town" is its commentary on the oil industry and the effects of wealth and power on individuals and society. The film portrays the oil tycoons as ruthless and cunning, willing to do whatever it takes to get ahead, including exploiting their workers and manipulating the market. This commentary is just as relevant today, given the ongoing debates about the role of big business in society and the impact of capitalism on the environment. The film's portrayal of the characters' personal struggles, including their relationships and family dynamics, is also nuanced and realistic. Overall, "Boom Town" is a classic film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with a richly detailed world and complex characters that will keep viewers engaged from start to finish. With its strong performances, stunning cinematography, and timeless themes, "Boom Town" is a must-see for fans of classic Hollywood cinema.

CAST

Clark Gable
Clark Gable
Big John McMasters
Spencer Tracy
Spencer Tracy
Square John Sand
Claudette Colbert
Claudette Colbert
Betsy Bartlett
Hedy Lamarr
Hedy Lamarr
Karen Vanmeer
Frank Morgan
Frank Morgan
Luther Aldrich
Lionel Atwill
Lionel Atwill
Harry Compton
Chill Wills
Chill Wills
Harmony Jones
Marion Martin
Marion Martin
Whitey
Minna Gombell
Minna Gombell
Spanish Eva
Joe Yule
Joe Yule
Ed Murphy

Trailer

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