Inherit the Wind is a 1960 American courtroom drama film that was directed by Stanley Kramer. The film belongs to the legal drama genre and serves as a fictionalized account of the famous Scopes Monkey Trial of 1925. Released during a time of significant social and political change, the movie explores the themes of science, religion, and the freedom of thought.
Stanley Kramer, known for his strong moral and social messages in his films, directed Inherit the Wind. The screenplay was written by Nedrick Young and Harold Jacob Smith, and it was based on the 1955 play of the same name by Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee. The film was produced by Stanley Kramer Productions, a production company known for its socially relevant films that often tackled controversial topics.
Set in the small town of Hillsboro, the film tells the story of a schoolteacher named Bertram Cates, who is charged with teaching the theory of evolution in his classroom. This act goes directly against a state law that prohibits the teaching of any theory that contradicts the biblical account of creation. Cates’ arrest and subsequent trial create a nationwide media frenzy as people take sides on the issue of evolution versus religious belief.
The cast of Inherit the Wind features an impressive ensemble of talented actors. Spencer Tracy portrays Henry Drummond, a renowned lawyer who defends Cates in court. Fredric March plays Matthew Harrison Brady, a fire-and-brimstone orator and three-time presidential nominee who prosecutes the case against Cates. Gene Kelly takes on the role of E.K. Hornbeck, a cynical newspaper reporter based on the real-life journalist H.L. Mencken.
Upon its release, Inherit the Wind received generally positive reviews from critics. While some critics praised the film’s performances and its exploration of complex themes, others felt that it was too heavy-handed in its message and lacked subtlety. Despite the mixed reviews, the movie proved to be a commercial success, earning over $10 million at the box office.
One notable achievement of Inherit the Wind was its impact on popular culture. The film ignited public interest in the Scopes Monkey Trial and shed light on the ongoing conflict between science and religion. It also sparked important conversations about the First Amendment rights to free speech and freedom of thought.
The legacy of Inherit the Wind can be seen in its influence on subsequent films and television shows that tackled similar themes. It inspired a made-for-television movie adaptation in 1988, as well as a stage revival in 2007. The film’s enduring relevance is a testament to its thought-provoking exploration of the tension between science and religion in society. Inherit the Wind remains a classic, demonstrating the power of film to engage audiences in important social and intellectual discourse.
