Judge Priest is a 1934 American comedy film starring Will Rogers. The film was directed by John Ford, produced by Sol M. Wurtzel in association with Fox Film, and based on humorist Irvin S. Cobb's character Judge Priest. The picture is set in post-reconstruction Kentucky and the supporting cast features Henry B. Walthall, Hattie McDaniel and Stepin Fetchit. It was remade by Ford in 1953 as The Sun Shines Bright.
Plot
In 1890, Judge Priest is an eccentric judge in a small Kentucky town. Although his wife has been dead for 19 years, he shows no interest in remarrying. He sometimes stumbles with his words, but he shows his wit. The judge, despite all his talk of being a Confederateveteran, finds his best friend to be Jeff Poindexter, a black man. Judge Priest takes pride in his tolerance for others.
The film played a major role in earning Will Rogers recognition as the number one box office star of 1934. Rogers received critical praise for his performance, some noting that Rogers fell right into the role with his heart-warming personality. Rogers managed a balance of comedic one-liners and serious dramatics. The Tulsa Daily World summed up Rogers' performance: “The star’s portrayal of Judge Priest has the mark of authenticity upon it … the unique blending of unique talent with a rich and splendid role.” Rogers was killed in a plane crash just a year after the release of Judge Priest.
Stepin Fetchit
In the role as Jeff Poindexter, director John Ford gave Stepin Fetchit some room to expand his comic performance. When Judge Priest asks Jeff why he is not wearing his shoes, Fetchit comically ad libs, “I’m saving them for when my feet wear out.” Fetchit was known for attending lavish parties and causing mischief while off the studio lot. Right before the shooting of Judge Priest, Fetchit caused a commotion at a benefit show at the ApolloTheater in New York City. When he arrived back in Hollywood for the filming of Judge Priest, Fetchit’s behavior was much better. In fact, only once was Fetchit late for a shoot.
Hattie McDaniel
Hattie McDaniel was just beginning her trek to stardom when she shot Judge Priest. Before this film she was a relatively unknown actress. Stepin Fetchit apparently doubted her acting abilities at the beginning of the production, but soon realized he was working with a very talented performer. Director John Ford noted McDaniel’s acting talents. Ford cut some of Fetchit’s scenes and gave McDaniel additional scenes. This created an initial rift between these two pioneering black actors.
