It’s little wonder that Clark Gable and Jean Harlow made six films together in a span of just six years. Gable’s man’s man’s persona and her bawdy personality made for great chemistry. In Red Dust, their scenes have a palpable romantic tension, making an already good film even better.
Gable plays Dennis Carson, a Rubber Tree Plantation owner in a remote area of Indochina (now known as Vietnam) and Harlow is Vantine, a low-rent prostitute on the run from the law when she arrives at the plantation. A tough guy loner, Dennis portrays himself as not needed a woman. However, before long, it’s blatantly obvious that he and Vantine are having sex. To Dennis, the relationship is purely physical; Vantine has fallen in love with Dennis, although she doesn’t tell him.
Meanwhile, Barbara Willis (Mary Astor) shows up with her husband, Gary (Gene Raymond), who’s set to work for Carson. It’s not long before Dennis finds himself falling for Barbara. Barbara, refined and sophisticated, is the polar opposite of Vantine. Dennis uses every excuse in the book to send Barbara’s husband away so he can seduce her. It doesn’t take long before the two are engaged in a heated affair. Despite being thrown over for another woman, Vantine hangs around the plantation in hopes that Dennis will come back to her. In the end, who will he choose?
Directed by Victor Fleming (The Wizard of Oz, Gone with the Wind), Red Dust maintains a breezy pace throughout. Released during the pre-code era, Gable and Harlow exude sexuality, while Mary Astor reveals a less smoldering sensuality. The script isn’t particularly strong, but Jean Harlow’s talent makes for several humorous moments. Gable is her perfect foil; she isn’t afraid of his machismo. The look of sheer delight that comes across Vantine’s face when she’s in Dennis’ presence could melt even the toughest of men.
Remade as Mogambo in 1953 by John Ford, Clark Gable would return to his role, with Ava Gardner in Jean Harlow’s part and Grace Kelly taking over for Mary Astor. No matter the newer films merits, no actresses could hope to recapture the spark that made Harlow and Gable the “it” couple of the 1930’s.
Newly remsatered for release by Warner Archive, Red Dust looks pretty amazing for an eighty-year-old film. Presented in full frame and its original aspect ratio of 1:37:1, the image has only a few noticeable scratches throughout and contrast is perfectly acceptable.
The original mono soundtrack won’t blow away anyone’s audio system, but it suits the film well. Dialogue is clean and clear. I noticed only one or two incidents where I thought the volume may have lowered on its own for a few moments.
An original theatrical trailer is included.
