Boom Town (1940)

Two down on their luck wildcatters (Clark Gable, Spencer Tracy) join forces and do what they have to (including stealing) in their quest to strike oil. Eventually they strike it rich but they fall out over Gable's wife (Claudette Colbert) who Tracy loves. Based on the short story A LADY COMES TO BURKBURNETT by James Edward Grant and directed by Jack Conway (LIBELED LADY). Wonderfully entertaining, this action packed movie is a prime example of no nonsense studio film making (in this case MGM) during the "Golden Age" of Hollywood. Snappy and fast with four major stars (Hedy Lamarr is the 4th lead) lending real star presence. The film's action highlight is a spectacular wild fire and explosion at an oil rig that's beautifully done. The film was a huge hit and following GONE WITH THE WIND made Gable just about the biggest male star in Hollywood. The film weakens a little (but not too much) when the action moves from the oil fields to Manhattan penthouses. With Frank Morgan, Lionel Atwill, Chill Wills, Sara Haden, Marion Martin and Minna Gombell.