Watch Wild in the Country

Wild in the Country is a 1961 American drama film that stars the legendary singer and actor Elvis Presley in the leading role. The movie is a classic love story that also explores themes including family, mental health, and the importance of following one's dreams. The plot revolves around a young man named Glenn Tyler played by Elvis Presley, who has recently been released from a youth correctional facility. Glenn dreams of becoming a famous writer and seeks the help of Irene Sperry (Hope Lange), a beautiful psychiatric counselor, to overcome his emotional and psychological issues. However, Glenn's attention soon turns towards Noreen (Tuesday Weld), a beautiful young woman who lives with her stepfather, a wealthy businessman who is abusive towards her.

As Glenn spends more time with Noreen, he realizes that he has deep feelings for her and decides to pursue a romantic relationship with her. However, things become complicated when Noreen's stepfather tries to end their relationship and Glenn is accused of assaulting him. As Glenn is forced to defend himself in court, he must also confront his inner demons and come to terms with his troubled past.

One of the most notable aspects of Wild in the Country is Elvis Presley's performance as Glenn Tyler. This was one of his most serious roles, and he demonstrated a range of acting skills that earned him critical acclaim from audiences and critics alike. The chemistry between Presley and Tuesday Weld is also a highlight of the movie, with their romantic scenes being particularly captivating.

Hope Lange delivers a stellar performance as Irene Sperry, the counselor who tries to help Glenn overcome his emotional issues. Her character is essential in advancing the plotline, and she handles this with skill, striking the perfect balance between her professional and personal relationships with Glenn. The character of Noreen, played by Tuesday Weld, is also compelling as she transforms from a vulnerable young woman to a confident individual who is willing to fight for what she wants.

The film's plot is skillfully crafted by director Philip Dunne and screenwriter Clifford Odets, who adapted the story from a novel by J.R. Salamanca. The film doesn't shy away from exploring the darker side of life, and it deals with themes such as mental health, family dysfunction, and societal pressure.

The cinematography in Wild in the Country is also noteworthy, with the landscape of the film's rural setting being beautifully captured on camera. The musical score by Kenyon Hopkins complements the visuals, with the soft melodies adding to the film's overall emotional resonance.

Some reviews have criticized the film's length, which is just over two hours, but this is an issue that is easily overlooked when considering the movie's other virtues. The pacing of the film is just right, with moments of intensity being balanced by softer scenes that allow the viewer to catch their breath.

In conclusion, Wild in the Country is a must-see movie for anyone who is a fan of Elvis Presley's work, and for those who appreciate a classic romance story. The film's exploration of complex characters, themes, and the rural landscape of America makes for an unforgettable experience. The film's themes are as relevant now as they were in 1961, and the performances of Elvis Presley, Hope Lange, and Tuesday Weld ensure that the movie remains a timeless classic.

Wild in the Country is a 1961 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 54 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.