Call of the Yukon

The movie Call of the Yukon, released in 1938, is set in the rugged snowy wilderness of the Canadian Yukon. The storyline revolves around a young man named Dave O'Brien, played by Richard Arlen, who is searching for his father's lost mine. O'Brien heads into the vast Northern expanse with his faithful canine companion, Yukon King, to seek his fortune in the challenging environs.

Along the way, O'Brien encounters a brash and self-assured newcomer named Jack Gagnon, played by Lyle Talbot, who is also looking for the mine. Gagnon soon causes trouble by trying to steal O'Brien's dog and create discord among the other miners. He is determined to find the mine and claim it for himself, even if it means breaking the law and hurting others.

O'Brien also becomes romantically involved with a local singer named Rose Marie, played by Beverly Roberts. Rose Marie's singing at the local saloon helps to create a sensuous atmosphere and adds depth to the story.

As the plot thickens, O'Brien and Gagnon engage in an intense race to reach the lost mine before one another, and before either of them succumbs to the dangers of the wild Yukon. The feud between O'Brien and Gagnon escalates, leading to a climactic confrontation that tests their physical and emotional limits.

The cinematography of the film stands out, as the vast and desolate landscape is captured beautifully. It portrays the scenic beauty of the Canadian wilderness with its snow-capped mountains, frozen lakes, and groves of tall conifers. The harsh and unforgiving Yukon weather conditions become an integral part of the storyline, as both O'Brien's and Gagnon's moral fiber is tested to the limit.

The characters in the movie are well-drawn and multi-faceted. Arlen portrays O'Brien's earnestness and determination extremely well, and his bond with his loyal sled dog is palpable. Roberts brings grace and poise to her role as Rose Marie, and her singing is an absolute standout. Talbot, playing the villainous Gagnon, is suitably over-the-top in his performance, making the audience root for O'Brien to triumph over him.

The film has all the ingredients of a rousing action-adventure with heart. The story's themes of greed, jealousy, and courage still resonate with viewers today. The characters are relatable, and the film's setting, brilliantly portrayed, transports audiences back to a time in history when life was simpler yet rougher. The beauty and vastness of the Canadian North reflect a spirit of adventure that is thoroughly engaging.

Overall, Call of the Yukon is an entertaining film that offers a glimpse of the natural beauty and harsh realities of life in the Yukon. It is a well-acted film with an engaging story that is both suspenseful and heartwarming. Despite the film being made over 80 years ago, it still holds up today and is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a good old-fashioned adventure story.