“The Mountain” (1956)

Drama

Running Time: 105 minutes

Written by: Ranald MacDougall based on La neige en deuil by Henri Troyat

Directed by: Edward Dmytryk

Featuring: Spencer Tracy and Robert Wagner

Father Belacchi: “They’re getting up a rescue party to climb the mountain.”

Zachary Teller: “Why, if everybody’s dead?”

“The Mountain” is a 1956 drama film directed by Edward Dmytryk and starring Spencer Tracy and Robert Wagner. The film follows Dr. Zachary Teller (Spencer Tracy), a middle-aged Swiss physician who is called to a remote mountain village to help a young man named Rudi (Robert Wagner) who has been injured in a climbing accident. Despite the language and cultural barriers, Dr. Teller is determined to save Rudi’s life, and the two form a bond as they work together to heal Rudi’s injuries.

One of the strengths of “The Mountain” is the beautiful cinematography, which showcases the stunning alpine scenery of the Swiss mountains. The film also features strong performances from both Tracy and Wagner, who bring depth and nuance to their roles. “The Mountain” is a well-crafted drama that effectively captures the beauty and challenges of life in a remote mountain village.

The film also explores themes of cultural differences and the importance of human connection, as Dr. Teller and Rudi come from very different worlds but are able to find common ground and learn from each other. While the film is somewhat slow-paced and may not appeal to those looking for action or thrills, it is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant drama that rewards patient viewers. The characters are well-drawn and the story is engaging, with some unexpected twists and turns along the way.

“The Mountain” is a classic drama that stands the test of time, thanks to its strong performances, beautiful visuals, and timeless themes. It is definitely worth checking out for fans of classic cinema and those interested in exploring the human condition in a unique and challenging setting.

One of the highlights of “The Mountain” is Spencer Tracy’s performance as Dr. Teller. Tracy, who was known for his ability to bring depth and authenticity to his roles, imbues his character with a sense of quiet strength and wisdom that makes him a compelling protagonist. Robert Wagner, meanwhile, is equally impressive as Rudi, portraying the young man’s pain and vulnerability with sensitivity and nuance. The chemistry between the two actors is palpable, and their scenes together are some of the film’s most memorable.

“The Mountain” is a well-crafted and emotionally resonant drama that showcases the talents of its cast and crew. While it may not be the most action-packed or fast-paced film out there, it rewards viewers who are willing to invest in its characters and themes. If you’re a fan of classic cinema or simply enjoy well-made dramas, “The Mountain” is definitely worth checking out. In addition to the performances, the film’s cinematography is also a standout aspect. The breathtaking mountain vistas are captured in stunning detail, and the use of natural light adds an extra layer of authenticity to the visuals.

The film’s themes of overcoming adversity and finding common ground with those who are different from us are also particularly relevant in today’s world. The story of Dr. Teller and Rudi serves as a reminder that no matter how different we may seem on the surface, we all share common struggles and experiences as human beings.

“The Mountain” is a classic drama that still holds up today thanks to its strong performances, stunning visuals, and timeless themes. While it may not be the most well-known film out there, it is definitely worth seeking out for fans of classic cinema and those who enjoy thought-provoking dramas with depth and heart.

The Video

Imprint serves up The Mountain in a 1.78:1 AVC 1080p encodement on Blu-ray Disc. Checking on the technical details of this original VistaVision production from Paramount the original aspect ratio was 1.85:1, so this is not in its original ratio. The color palette does ‘pop,’ especially Tracy’s red shirt and the vivid blue of Wagner’s cap, but there is some haloing in the imagery and softness in many of the frames that diminishes the depth-of-field. That said, there are also plenty of scenes that look sterling, with clear detail free from the random source damage, softness, and some other issues that hinder this transfer.

The Audio

The original mono mix for The Mountain is provided in LPCM 2.0. The sound is relatively good given the 1956 vintage offering clear dialogue and somewhat full sound effects.