Podcast Summary: The Plot Thickens – Episode: Monument Valley
Introduction
In the "Monument Valley" episode of The Plot Thickens, hosted by Ben Mankiewicz, listeners are taken on an in-depth exploration of John Ford's profound connection to Monument Valley and its pivotal role in shaping both his legacy and the American Western genre. This episode delves into the complexities of Ford's directorial genius, his tumultuous relationships on set, and the enduring impact of his work on cinema.
John Ford’s Sanctuary: Monument Valley
Ben Mankiewicz opens the episode by setting the stage for John Ford's retreat to Monument Valley, a landscape that would become synonymous with his vision of the American West. Ford first visited Monument Valley before World War II, influenced by local rancher Harry Goulding, who sought to bring Hollywood productions to the area to boost local economy and provide jobs for the Navajo population.
Scott Iman, a Ford biographer, recounts Ford’s initial impressions: “[00:06]… it was immediately clear this valley held something Ford loved most. Epic, beautiful scenery.” This profound appreciation for the landscape led Ford to return multiple times, ultimately filming six of his films there between 1946 and 1964, including classics like My Darling Clementine, Fort Apache, and Cheyenne Autumn.
Building the John Ford Stock Company
Ford’s commitment to Monument Valley was not just about the location; it was about the community he built there. Each trip to the valley was akin to running a summer camp, where Ford assembled a recurring ensemble of actors and crew members, known collectively as the "John Ford Stock Company." This group included legendary figures like John Wayne, Henry Fonda, Maureen O'Hara, and character actors such as Ward Bond and Victor McLaughlin.
Anna Lee, an English actress who frequently collaborated with Ford, highlights the allure of being part of this exclusive group: “[11:59]… actors wanted in even if they didn't always know what they were signing up for. But you could never say no to him. He wanted you in the picture and that was it.”
Ford’s Directing Style: A Dichotomy of Camp Counselor and Benevolent Dictator
On set, Ford fostered a sense of camaraderie through daily rituals such as afternoon tea and communal dining, creating a tightly-knit community amidst the harsh desert environment. However, beneath this veneer of unity lay a more volatile and demanding side. Ford's directorial approach was often described as authoritarian, with strict rules against drinking and a penchant for psychological manipulation to elicit authentic performances.
Iman describes Ford as both a “camp director” and a “benevolent dictator” ([18:30]), illustrating the duality of his leadership style. While Ford organized social gatherings and maintained a disciplined environment, he simultaneously employed tactics that could be harsh and provocative, targeting actors' vulnerabilities to deepen their performances.
The Challenge of Woody Strode: A Study in Contradictions
One of the most compelling narratives in this episode revolves around Woody Strode, a pioneering African American actor who worked with Ford on Sergeant Rutledge. Initially seen as a malleable newcomer, Strode's experience under Ford's direction was both transformative and tumultuous.
In Sergeant Rutledge, Ford cast Strode as a black army sergeant falsely accused of a heinous crime. Despite the film's progressive stance on race relations, the reality on set was rife with tension. Ford's methods included physical hazing and verbal abuse, particularly targeting Strode's vulnerability as a black actor in a segregated Hollywood.
Mia Mask, a film professor, elaborates on the significance of Strode’s role: “[30:24]… Sergeant Rutledge was a watershed moment, one of the first big Hollywood movies to look at racism straight on.”
During the filming, Ford would often test Strode's resilience, as recounted by Iman: “[36:17]… before shooting a pivotal monologue, Ford handed Strode a large mug of whiskey, leading to a confrontation that would precede one of Strode’s most memorable performances.”
Strode's portrayal showcased his growth as an actor but also highlighted the emotional toll of Ford's demanding and often antagonistic directing style. Despite the challenges, Strode acknowledged the invaluable experience gained under Ford’s tutelage, albeit marred by personal and racial tensions.
Toxic Masculinity and Ford’s Lasting Influence
The episode critically examines Ford's embodiment of toxic masculinity both on and off set. His abrasive behavior, coupled with moments of unexpected tenderness, painted a complex picture of a man who was deeply sensitive yet masked his vulnerabilities with a tough exterior.
Scott Iman reflects on Ford's personal struggles: “[48:18]… ‘Life for you, in actuality, had been an extremely tough experience because you were sensitive to great many things…’” This internal conflict is mirrored in Ford’s films, where his portrayal of rugged, stoic men became archetypal representations of American masculinity.
Legacy and Final Reflections
The episode concludes by addressing the paradox of Ford’s legacy. While his films have left an indelible mark on cinema and shaped the public’s perception of the American West, his methods and personal demeanor have sparked enduring debate. The narrator emphasizes the importance of acknowledging both the artistic brilliance and the problematic aspects of Ford’s character: “[49:12]… 'Who knows what John Ford was up to, or if it always was motivated from a place of artistic expression. He was also just kind of a mean guy…'”
Ben Mankiewicz invites listeners to reflect on how Ford’s complex personality influenced his work and, by extension, broader cultural narratives around masculinity and heroism.
Conclusion
The "Monument Valley" episode of The Plot Thickens offers a nuanced portrait of John Ford, celebrating his contributions to filmmaking while critically examining the interpersonal dynamics and ethical dilemmas that accompanied his success. Through engaging storytelling and insightful analysis, Ben Mankiewicz provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of Ford’s enduring impact on both cinema and cultural mythology.
Notable Quotes
- Scott Iman [00:06]: “…it was immediately clear this valley held something Ford loved most. Epic, beautiful scenery.”
- Scott Iman [11:59]: “…actors wanted in even if they didn't always know what they were signing up for. But you could never say no to him. He wanted you in the picture and that was it.”
- Scott Iman [18:30]: “I don't know how he had people to idolize him as much as they did when he was so damned obnoxious. He could be absolutely hideous to people.”
- Ben Mankiewicz [36:17]: “…it was a hell of a performance, truly memorable.”
- Scott Iman [48:18]: “Life for you, in actuality, had been an extremely tough experience because you were sensitive to great many things…”
Further Listening
Stay tuned for the next episode of The Plot Thickens, where Ben Mankiewicz delves into John Ford’s masterpiece, The Searchers, often regarded as the most disturbing Western in cinema history.