The Devil and Daniel Webster takes place in 1840s New Hampshire. The protagonist, Jabez Stone is a hard luck farmer whose crops continues to fail. After yet another failure Stone said that he would give up his soul if he can have prosperity. Afterwards, the devil aka Mr. Scratch appears to give Stone seven years of prosperity in exchange for his soul. As soon as prosperity comes Stone changes from a humble, likable farmer into a money-hungry cad. As Stone regrets the error of his ways Mr. Scratch comes back to collect Stones soul. Stone asked if Daniel Webster, the leading orator/politician of his day to come to his defense him against the devil. After much negotiating Webster convinces Mr. Scratch to give Stone a trial by jury, and if Webster fails to persuade the jury then Mr. Scratch can have Webster's soul as well. However, the devil aka Mr. Scratch selects the twelve most notorious dead men in American history. Webster's closing arguments he delivers a speech that convinces the jury that the devil does not and cannot take possession of a soul.Read full review
I found the movie "The Devil and Daniel Webster" to be an excellent buy. The plot was easy to follow with the character of Jabez Stone, who after running into nothing but bad luck, decides to change his fortunes by making a deal with the devil also known as "Mr. Scratch". As he attains his riches and unbelievable good luck, his whole demeanor and character changes as he becomes more and more greedy, wanting even more. As the time comes to turn his soul over to the devil, Jabez realizes his mistake and asks Sen. Daniel Webster to help him fight the devil in a makeshift courtroom with the most evilest of men as the jurors. If you like black and white classic movies, you'll like this one too!
Good story with interesting characters and situations. The only negative was the over-acting by the protagonist. He whines, mopes, and complains with such vehemence that I was quickly sick of him. A subtle performance would have engendered more sympathy. All the other actors were great and the story was clever and interesting. I recommend it despite the flaw.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
A must see/own film for and film lover
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
It’s a very old movie, but the message is timeless.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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