The Night of the Hunter (1955) Charles Laughton, Robert Mitchum, Shelley Winters, Lillian Gish, & Davis Grubb

Book Vs. Movie: The Night of the Hunter
The 1953 Novel Vs. the 1955 Classic Movie

Davis Grubb’s 1953 novel *The Night of the Hunter* and its 1955 film adaptation by Charles Laughton offer haunting interpretations of a sinister preacher, Harry Powell, and two children fleeing him. The novel delves deeper into Powell's twisted morality and religious fanaticism. At the same time, the film, featuring Robert Mitchum, presents him as a symbolic figure of evil with striking visual elements, including his "LOVE" and "HATE" tattoos. The book maintains a grounded, psychological tone, while the movie employs a surreal, expressionist style to illustrate the battle between good and evil. Which version did we (the Margos) prefer? Have a listen to find out.

In this ep, the Margos discuss:

• The creepy origin story of the book.
• Charles Laughton’s excellent direction and why he never helmed a picture again. 
• The differences between the novel and the 1955 film. 
• The Movie Cast: Robert Mitchum (Harry Powell,) Shelley Winters (Willa Harper,) Lillian Gish (Rachel Cooper,) Billy Chapin (John Harper,) Sally Jane Bruce (Pearl Harper,) James Gleason (Uncle “Birdie” Steptoe,) Evelyn Varden (Icey Spoon,) Don Beddoe (Walt Spoon,) Peter Graves (Ben Harper,) Gloria Castillo (Ruby,) and Paul Bryar as Bart the Hangman. 

Clips used:

• “Harry Speaks to the Lord”
• The Night of the Hunter (1955 trailer)
• “John Promises His Dad”
• “Love and Hate”
• “He Ain’t My Dad” 
• “Leaning”
• The Night of the Hunter soundtrack by Walter Schumann

Book Vs. Movie is part of the Frolic Podcast Network. Find more podcasts you will love Frolic.Media/podcasts. Join our Patreon page “Book Vs. Movie podcast”
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