''Elephant Walk'', 1954 - art by Rolf Goetze
by Movie World Posters
Title
''Elephant Walk'', 1954 - art by Rolf Goetze
Artist
Movie World Posters
Medium
Mixed Media - Vintage Movie Poster
Description
A vintage German movie poster of ''Elephant Walk'', a 1954 drama film directed by William Dieterle and starring Elizabeth Taylor, Dana Andrews, and Peter Finch. The movie is based on a novel of the same name by Robert Standish and is set in the exotic backdrop of Ceylon (now Sri Lanka).
The story revolves around a newly married couple, Ruth (played by Elizabeth Taylor) and John Wiley (played by Dana Andrews). John inherits a tea plantation called Elephant Walk in Ceylon, and he decides to take his bride there to start a new life. However, upon arriving at Elephant Walk, they discover that the estate is beset by numerous challenges, including labor disputes, a harsh climate, and the presence of wild elephants that frequently destroy their precious tea crops.
Complicating matters further is the presence of John's former lover, plantation manager Dick Carver (played by Peter Finch), who still holds a significant influence over the workers and the plantation itself. Tensions rise as Ruth becomes increasingly isolated and struggles to assert herself in the face of adversity.
The film explores themes of colonialism, cultural clashes, and personal relationships in the midst of challenging circumstances. It also delves into the complexities of power and desire, particularly in the context of a marriage strained by external pressures.
"Elephant Walk" is notable for its lush cinematography, capturing the picturesque landscapes of Ceylon, as well as for Elizabeth Taylor's performance in the role of Ruth, which showcases her talent as a leading lady in Hollywood during the 1950s. The film remains an interesting artifact of its time, combining elements of romance and drama against an exotic and challenging backdrop.
About the poster artist:
Rolf Goetze was a German illustrator and painter who painted film poster art for about 30 years. His early works began in the 1930s, when he did a number of posters for Greta Garbo films, including "Queen Christina" (1934), "Anna Karenina" (1935), and "Camille" (1936). He continued creating German poster artwork of mostly American films through the 1960s.
From a stylistic point of view, Goetze's posters are characterized by a great compositional structure; the German designer was capable of blending incredibly realistic, close-up portraits, with elaborate scenes in the background. An undisputed master of portraiture, Goetze created numerous posters using monochrome, black and white, or sepia palettes. His posters look like realistic, vivid charcoal drawings. They are able to represent faces and expressions of their protagonists, as mirrors faithful to reality.
Search by the artist's last name to see more of his art.
Uploaded
February 9th, 2022
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