Inherit the Wind (1960) portrays, in partly fictionalized form, the famous and dramatic courtroom “Monkey Trial” battle (in the sultry summer of 1925 in Dayton, Tennessee) between two famous lawyers (Clarence Darrow and William Jennings Bryan) who volunteered to heatedly argue both sides of the case (over 12 days, including two weekends).

Its story centers around the issue of evolution vs. creationism, in the prosecution of 24 year-old Dayton High School mathematics teacher and sports coach – and substitute science teacher – John T. Scopes for violating state law (the 1925 Butler Act) by teaching the Darwin’s theory of evolution in a state-funded school. The film’s title was taken from the Biblical book of Proverbs 11:29: “He that troubleth his own house shall inherit the wind.”

An absorbing, liberal “message” film-maker Stanley Kramer both produced and directed the film that modified and slightly disguised the historical event by changing the names of the prototypical characters and making them fictional figures. His allegorical film was also designed as a protest against the repressive thinking of the 50s McCarthy era.

The film stars are Spencer Tracy, Dick York, Gene Kelly, and Henry Morgan

delete reply philsgal7759 wrote on Nov 18, ’07 Ah yes now I remember this is a great movie

delete reply redheadgirl4 wrote on Nov 18, ’07 This is such a wonderful movie!!! Wasn’t Spencer Tracy brilliant? It’s one of those movies you can watch over and over and never get tired of it. It’s also timely, since debates like this seem to still be continuing. This was a really wonderful choice, and a great review!

delete reply redheadgirl4 wrote on Nov 18, ’07 You inspired me to write about another courtroom movie from this era — “12 Angry Men.” I mentioned you and this review in my blog, hope that was ok! 🙂

edit delete reply lauritasita wrote on Nov 19, ’07 I’m so glad that I inspired you, Cathy !