FACE OF FIRE 1959 (TCM VIEWING)

This film has often been written about as a horror film, but nothing could be further from the truth.

James Whitmore stars as a handy man named Monk Johnson who is beloved by everyone in a small town. He fishes with the children, helps a local doctor keep his home up and much more.

One night during a house fire at Dr. Ned Trescott's (Cameron Mitchell) home, Monk rescues his small child but is seriously burned in the process and has some brain damage as well.

He is disfigured so badly that most people in town are afraid of him and actually turn on him.

If this movie is anything, it is a character study of human nature and how people are quick to judge and turn on each other. Whitmore gives an excellent performance as does the entire cast.

The supporting players include Royal Dano, Lois Maxwell, Bettye Ackerman and Robert F. Simon.

I enjoyed this rare little film. It's sad it isn't seen much, but at least TCM ran a beautiful print of the film. Recommended!!