The Treasure of Sierra Madre film review

There are quite a few people out there that seem to have a phobia of old movies. Especially (heaven forbid!) a black and white film! My father is one of these people. He is not one of those guys that likes to linger in the past, he prefers to keep up with the typical Hollywood blockbusters. There is certainly something to be gained from not forgetting about the classics, however. While not one of the more well known classics, The Treasure of Sierra Madre directed by John Huston is indeed a classic none the less. A poignant look at the effects of greed on a man’s soul, Treasure of Sierra Madre is a unique and rewarding cinematic experience!

One of the unique things about this film for me, was how gritty and dark it could get for a older film. The main character is played by Humphrey Bogart, one of my favorite actors. When people think of Bogart they usually think of him in Casablanca, clean cut, classy, all around cool guy. In this film the three main characters, who are heading into the Mexican wilderness searching for gold are very human. As the story continues to unfold, each characters individual weaknesses and vises boils to the surface as tensions mount over what to do with the gold they do find. Striping down the veil of gentlemanly notoriety as the true essence of each man unfolds.

The main characters are Frank Dobbs, Curtin, and Howard. All three are down and out bums trying to escape the Great Depression in Mexico. Together they team up in hopes of striking it rich looking for gold. Huston does an excellent job of setting up the characters, Dobbs and Curtin are both honest young guys who we as the audience really connect with. You see them as simply being a couple poor guys who have hit hard times, you feel for them, and hope they find a way to better their situation. Howard offers them that chance. He is an old prospector who has been on many gold digging expeditions, and is always ready for another adventure. The three team up, and make their way into the wild in search for untold treasures.

From train robberies, to cave ins, to selfish greed, the trio is plagued by challenges around every corner. As the stakes rise, so does the tension. It is almost palpable to the audience. We see the changes that come over our down and out heroes as their lust for gold seems to continue without end. The best example is Dobbs, as the film progresses, he just becomes dirty, his clothes ripped and stained, towards the end he is not even recognizable, it is as if he has devolved into a more primitive being, completely consumed by his greed and selfishness.

As I said, this film is a little darker and grittier than you would expect from a black and white Bogart film. The values dealt with are very real. It forces the viewer to ask what true treasure is, and what is the true cost of obsessing over material wealth? Is it better to seek what we want, or find the contempt and happiness that comes from simply enjoying the little we do have? Again, what is true treasure? This question I think is one Dobbs, Curtin, and Howard are all forced to answer, and they all come to slightly different answers, answers that help us gain a look into their true human character.

The Treasure of Sierra Madre is a wonderful, and though provoking film. It can be appreciated for not only it’s highly entertainment merits, but also for it’s significant look into the nature of greed, and what it can do to a person. A brilliant rags to riches story that is filled with top notch action, suspense, and a few good laughs. The whole story is truly brought together by Humphrey Bogart’s superb acting, as well as John Huston’s excellent directing. A highly recommended film for anyone! And don’t let the age or the lack of color scare you off, you will not be disappointed if you take the time to see and enjoy this true classic!