About The Most Dangerous Game (1932)

"The Most Dangerous Game," is an enthralling pre-Code adaptation of the 1924 short story of the same name by Richard Connell. The plot revolves around an eccentric Russian aristocrat who is also a big game hunter. However, his sadistic penchant leans more towards hunting humans rather than animals on his private island, providing a chilling narrative of survival and horror.

Shipwreck survivor Robert Rainsford (played by Joel McCrea), a renowned big game hunter, finds himself playing a deadly game on the isolated island. He has to use his wit and cunning to outmaneuver the maniacal Count Zaroff (played by Leslie Banks) who finds thrill in hunting the “most dangerous game” – humans. This intense hunt truly tests Rainsford's mettle as he fights to survive while also protecting Count Zaroff's captive, Eve Trowbridge (played by Fay Wray).

Making / Production

Directed by Ernest B. Schoedsack and Irving Pichel, this film was made by RKO Radio Pictures. The production cleverly reused the jungle sets of King Kong (1933) which were already being made. Hence, both the movies share a visual kinship in terms of set design and aesthetics. The cinematography by Henry W. Gerrard vividly captures the dense, eerie jungle while heightening the suspense and fear surrounding the deadly hunt.

Actors

• Joel McCrea as 'Robert Rainsford'. The hero of the story, McCrea gives an exceptional performance, portraying Rainsford's fear, bravery and resourcefulness in the face of danger exquisitely.

• Fay Wray as 'Eve Trowbridge'. Wray delivers a powerful performance as Eve, painting the character as both vulnerable and resilient.

• Leslie Banks as 'Count Zaroff'. Banks nails the role of the sadistic hunter, his chilling portrayal enhances the overall horror of the story.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film was cited to actually be successful due to its secondary status, meaning its connections to King Kong had helped it gather attention.
• The movie’s pre-Code status allowed for the implication of more horrific elements, like the suggestion of the hunting and killing of humans.

Music, Soundtrack

• The music and sound effects of the movie greatly enhanced the suspense and thrill of the movie, despite it being in the early days of sound design.
• The orchestral score by Max Steiner set the tone of the film perfectly, accentuating the intensity of the horror and suspense of the film.