The Harvey Girls 1946
Directed by
George Sidney
Made by
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM)
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of The Harvey Girls (1946). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
As the sun-kissed 1890s began, a lively group known as the “Harvey Girls” set off on the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway, headed toward the rustic town of Sandrock in the American Southwest. Among them was Susan Bradley, an ambitious young woman eager to find love after responding to a “lonely-hearts” ad. However, she was completely unaware that her life was about to take an unforeseen turn.
Upon reaching her destination, Susan’s dreams were rudely dashed when she discovered that her expected groom—a much older man with a flair for romantic letters—was nothing like the charming figure she had imagined. The couple quickly found themselves at odds, with their disagreements casting a shadow over the wedding plans, ultimately leading them to the mutual decision to call off the marriage.
As the wedding fell apart, Susan uncovered that her would-be fiancé’s sentimental correspondences had actually been written by Ned Trent, the intriguing owner of the local saloon. Angered but resolute, she confronted Trent, initially full of indignation, but gradually forming an unexpected bond with him.
Susan soon found herself at the center of a spirited conflict with Judge Sam Purvis, a business partner of Trent, who attempted to intimidate the Harvey Girls and protect his own profitable operation. Complicating matters was Em, a sultry saloon girl with a hidden affection for Trent, who viewed Susan as a rival in love.
As skirmishes brewed, Trent recognized the significance of the Harvey House and the civilization it symbolized. He ordered Purvis to halt his intimidation tactics, but the judge refused to relent, even resorting to setting fire to the restaurant. Undaunted, Trent offered his saloon as a substitute, prompting Em and her group to vacate Sandrock.
Thinking that Trent intended to depart the town, Susan boarded a train, only to be stopped by Em, who had begun to understand her rival’s devotion to the saloon owner. Despite the turmoil, Susan remained on the train, her heart holding on to her feelings for Trent. Just then, fate intervened as Trent appeared, revealing that he was indeed not leaving.
In a beautifully poignant conclusion, Susan and Trent exchanged vows against the backdrop of the desert, surrounded by their newfound friends—the Harvey Girls—who embodied the spirit of hope and resilience in the face of challenges.
Timeline
Track the key events of The Harvey Girls (1946) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
The Journey Begins
In the sun-kissed era of the 1890s, a vibrant group known as the 'Harvey Girls' embarked on a significant trip. They boarded the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway, bound for the rustic town of Sandrock in the American Southwest, filled with hopes and dreams.
Arrival in Sandrock
Upon reaching Sandrock, Susan Bradley was excited about her new life and potential love. However, her anticipation quickly turned to disappointment when she met her groom, who was a stark contrast to the charming figure she had envisioned.
Wedding Plans Fall Apart
As Susan and her fiancé interacted, it became clear that their personalities clashed significantly. This disagreement cast a pall over the wedding plans, leading them both to agree to call off the marriage altogether.
Discovery of Truth
In a shocking revelation, Susan learned that the romantic letters written to her were not from her fiancé but authored by Ned Trent, the charismatic owner of the local saloon. Fueled by anger, Susan confronted Trent, which led to a surprising connection developing between them.
Conflict with Judge Purvis
As tensions rose, Susan found herself at the center of a growing conflict with Judge Sam Purvis, who sought to protect his business interests by intimidating the Harvey Girls. This marked the beginning of a series of confrontations that would test Susan's resolve and the unity of the Harvey Girls.
Em's Rivalry
Complicating matters was Em, a sultry saloon girl who harbored feelings for Trent and viewed Susan as a direct threat. This rivalry added a layer of complexity to the already strained relations between the characters, isolating Susan further.
Trent Takes a Stand
Recognizing the importance of the Harvey House and its symbolism for civilization, Trent decided to confront Judge Purvis. He ordered Purvis to cease his intimidation tactics, though Purvis remained resistant, escalating tensions even further.
Destruction of the Restaurant
In a desperate attempt to assert his power, Judge Purvis set fire to the Harvey House restaurant, further inciting conflict in the town. This act of violence underscored the stakes involved and the dire need for a resolution.
Alternative Arrangements
Undeterred by the destruction, Trent offered his saloon as a substitute venue for the girls. This action not only demonstrated his support for Susan and the Harvey Girls but also signaled the beginning of a deeper alliance between him and Susan.
Em's Revelation
As chaos unfolded, Em began to recognize Susan's genuine feelings for Trent. Her perspective shifted, leading her to confront her own emotions regarding the man she had been vying for, creating a moment of unexpected solidarity.
The Train Incident
Thinking that Trent was about to leave Sandrock, Susan attempted to board a train in a bid to follow him. However, her journey was interrupted by Em, who had started to empathize with Susan's situation, challenging her own competitive nature.
Trent's True Intentions
As Susan's heart raced at the thought of losing Trent, he unexpectedly appeared at the train, dispelling her fears. His arrival proved he was not leaving, reaffirming the bond that had developed between them amidst turmoil.
A New Beginning
In a touching culmination of their journey, Susan and Trent exchanged vows in a desert setting, encircled by their friends, the Harvey Girls. This moment symbolized not just their love but also the resilience and hope they all fostered in the face of adversity.
Celebration of Friendship
The wedding signified a united front for the Harvey Girls, who had emerged stronger through their shared experiences. Their friendship and support for one another were celebrated, marking a new chapter for everyone involved in Sandrock.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring The Harvey Girls (1946) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Susan Bradley
Susan is an ambitious and hopeful young woman determined to find love and create a new life for herself. Her journey leads her to unexpected challenges that test her resolve and beliefs. Throughout the movie, she evolves from naïveté to clarity, ultimately embracing her feelings and standing strong against adversity.
Ned Trent
Ned is the intriguing local saloon owner whose letters unintentionally set off a series of events in Susan's life. His initial detachment gives way to genuine affection, revealing a complex character shaped by his experiences. His determination to support the Harvey Girls underscores his character's growth and commitment to justice.
Judge Sam Purvis
As a business partner of Ned, Judge Purvis embodies the antagonist role, using intimidation tactics to maintain his control over the town. His actions reflect the struggle between old and new values, and his refusal to compromise highlights the themes of conflict present in the story. Purvis's character serves to challenge the heroism of the Harvey Girls.
Em
Em is a sultry saloon girl who sees Susan as a romantic rival. Initially, she embodies jealousy and conflict, but as the story unfolds, she reveals her own vulnerabilities and motivations. Em's character showcases the complexities of female relationships and the capacity for understanding and change.
Setting
Uncover the settings of The Harvey Girls (1946), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
1890s
The 1890s were a time of significant change in America, marked by westward expansion and enhanced transportation methods. This era was characterized by both optimism and challenges, as many individuals sought new opportunities in the burgeoning frontier. The spirit of adventure and the quest for romance are prevalent themes during this transformative decade.
Location
Sandrock, American Southwest, Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway
Sandrock is a rustic town located in the American Southwest, marked by its desert landscape and pioneering spirit. The Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway plays a crucial role in connecting this town to the outside world. This setting is known for its vibrant community, where the 'Harvey Girls' embark on their transformative journey.
Themes
Explore the core themes of The Harvey Girls (1946). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Love and Heartbreak
The film explores themes of love and heartbreak through Susan's journey in search of romance. Initially disappointed by her fiancé's true nature, she eventually finds an unexpected connection with Ned Trent. This narrative illustrates the complexities of relationships and the emotional turmoil that accompanies the pursuit of love.
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Conflict and Resilience
Conflict arises between the Harvey Girls and Judge Sam Purvis as they seek to protect their livelihood and independence. The resilience of the Harvey Girls symbolizes strength in the face of adversity. Their journey emphasizes the importance of standing up for one’s beliefs and the power of solidarity among women.
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