Plot Details: This opinion reveals minor details about the movie's plot.

The Rainmaker was directed by Hal B. Wallis and is a credit to the talents of all the participants, particularly Katherine Hepburn, who received a Best Actress nomination for the role. Hepburn is a very interesting casting choice for the role of Lizzie Curry, a desperate spinster doubting her femininity and self-worth. Lizzie is the never-married daughter of a prairie farmer who still lives at home with her father and two brothers. She is proficient at everything she needs to be a good wife but fears that no man wants her because she is "plain". Even though Hepburn was almost fifty years old when she starred in this film, she makes the much-younger character come to life in a believable way. This is also a departure from the usual roles that Hepburn plays-strong, independent females.

Burt Lancaster is in his element as he plays this role with the enthusiasm and action that typifies a Lancaster project. Lancaster plays Bill Starbuck, charismatic conman, who travels the countryside separating gullible townspeople from their money. Starbuck convinces the Curry family that he can bring much-needed rain to their community. Not only does Starbuck eventually fulfill his promise of rain, but he also brings romance and awakens the self-esteem that Lizzie needs to make an important life decision. The scene where Starbuck gives Lizzie her first kiss is particularly touching and heart-warming.

The other characters in this film are also excellent in their roles. Wendell Corey stars as File, the close-mouthed town Deputy who secretly loves Lizzie but is reluctant to make his feelings known. Lizzie's no-nonsense brother Noah is played by Lloyd Bridges. Noah feels that Lizzie should face the fact that she will probably never be married and he takes every opportunity to persuade her to accept that reality. Lizzie's sympathetic and loving father, H. C. Curry, is played by Cameron Prud'Homme.

Earl Holliman stars as Lizzie's lovestruck younger brother, Jim. Holliman's endearing portrayal of the naive young man won him a 1957 Golden Globe award. Jim's girlfriend, Snookie, is played by Yvonne Lime.

The Rainmaker is a touching, often funny story of how a woman finally gains appreciation for herself and her value as a person. Although the premise seems fairly simplistic, the interaction among the characters and the emotional undertones expose a much deeper level of human complexity. I recommend this movie as a very entertaining piece of film artistry.



Recommended: Yes

Viewing Format: VHS
Video Occasion: Better than Watching TV