Come And Get It! A Roaring Twenties Tale of Love, Lust, and Texas Oil

The year 1926 saw the birth of cinematic marvels that continue to captivate audiences nearly a century later. Among them, “Come and Get It” stands out as a silent film masterpiece, transporting viewers to the untamed landscapes of early 20th-century Texas oil boom. Directed by the visionary Edmund Goulding, this sprawling saga weaves together themes of ambition, love, betrayal, and ultimately, redemption, against the backdrop of a rapidly changing world.

A Story Steeped in Ambition and Desire

“Come and Get It,” adapted from Edna Ferber’s novel “Come and Get It,” tells the story of Richard “Dick” Bartlett, played with steely intensity by actor Rod La Rocque. Bartlett arrives in Texas with dreams as vast as the oil fields he intends to conquer. He starts humbly, working his way up from a lowly ranch hand to become a successful oil baron. However, his journey is fraught with challenges and moral dilemmas.

Bartlett’s ambition becomes an insatiable hunger, driving him to make ruthless decisions and sacrifice personal relationships in pursuit of wealth. His love for the captivating but elusive woman named Ann (played by the stunning Betty Bronson) adds another layer of complexity to his character. Their passionate affair becomes a constant struggle between Bartlett’s desire for Ann and his relentless pursuit of success.

Characters That Leap Off The Silver Screen

“Come and Get It” boasts a remarkable ensemble cast, each delivering nuanced performances that breathe life into the film’s complex characters:

• Rod La Rocque (Richard “Dick” Bartlett): La Rocque embodies the charismatic yet morally ambiguous protagonist with effortless charm. His portrayal captures Bartlett’s transformation from an earnest young man to a hardened oil tycoon grappling with the consequences of his choices.

• Betty Bronson (Ann): Bronson brings a captivating allure and vulnerability to Ann, the object of Bartlett’s affections. Her performance highlights Ann’s independent spirit and her struggle to find love and happiness amidst the turbulent world of oil barons.

• Warner Baxter (“Texas Slim”): Baxter delivers a powerful portrayal of “Texas Slim,” a ruthless competitor who challenges Bartlett for control of the oil fields. His character embodies the raw ambition and ruthlessness that characterized the era.

Themes That Resonate Across Time:

“Come and Get It” explores timeless themes that continue to hold relevance in today’s society:

• The Corrosive Nature of Ambition: The film paints a cautionary tale about the potential dangers of unchecked ambition. Bartlett’s relentless pursuit of wealth ultimately leads him down a path of isolation and moral compromise, highlighting the importance of balance and integrity.

• Love and Sacrifice: Bartlett’s relationship with Ann is a central thread throughout the narrative. Their passionate love affair underscores the complexities of human relationships, where desires clash with societal expectations and personal ambitions.

• The Changing Face of America: Set during the oil boom era, “Come and Get It” offers a glimpse into the rapid transformation sweeping across the American landscape. The film captures the excitement, opportunities, and challenges presented by the burgeoning oil industry, reflecting a pivotal moment in American history.

Technical Brilliance and Silent Storytelling:

Despite its silent nature, “Come and Get It” masterfully employs visual storytelling techniques to convey a rich tapestry of emotions and narratives:

• Dramatic Lighting and Cinematography: The film’s cinematography is notable for its use of dramatic lighting and shadows, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere. Close-ups effectively capture the characters’ facial expressions and inner turmoil, adding emotional weight to the narrative.

• Intertitles and Score: While lacking spoken dialogue, “Come and Get It” employs intertitles to advance the story and convey crucial information. The accompanying musical score enhances the film’s emotional impact, underscoring key moments of love, betrayal, and triumph.

A Lasting Legacy: Why “Come and Get It” Still Matters:

Nearly a century after its release, “Come and Get It” remains a cinematic treasure worthy of rediscovery. Its themes of ambition, love, and betrayal continue to resonate with audiences, offering a glimpse into the complexities of human nature and the changing landscape of early 20th-century America. The film’s masterful silent storytelling techniques and captivating performances make it a timeless masterpiece that transcends generations.

For film enthusiasts and history buffs alike, “Come and Get It” offers a rich and rewarding cinematic experience. So dive into this Roaring Twenties gem, and let its story transport you to a bygone era of oil barons, passionate love affairs, and the enduring allure of the American Dream.