MovieChat Forums > San Francisco (1936) Discussion > Father Tim is so smug in this movie

Father Tim is so smug in this movie


I have always been a fan of Spencer Tracy but did not care for his performance in this movie. He plays a priest as smug and manipulative. Perhaps it's because this is one of his earlier performances and also because he was Catholic, perhaps he thought this is how a priest should behave as though all priests can and should be self-righteous and holier-than-thou due to the vows they have taken. As a former Catholic turned atheist myself, I also did not care for Gable's turn at the end. But mainly, I am embarrassed by Tracy's performance as a know-it-all, smug and manipulative priest.

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Given when this movie was made, I knew the atheist would have to crawl in the end. But what surprised me was the look of on Spencer Tracy’s face when he finds out there has been an earthquake. It is almost a look of glee. Instead of worrying about the people who need help, he seems to be thinking, “Boy, this will show those no-good atheists.”

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Just saw the film, and I don't understand what part you mean when you say

the look of on Spencer Tracy’s face when he finds out there has been an earthquake

If you mean the part in the end where Gable prays, to me that only shows that he is happy his friend has finally understood what Mary meant to him.

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No, I meant the point in the movie where Tracy is informed about the earthquake, when Gable is not even present. Now, he doesn't do a happy dance, or anything like that. His reaction is subtle, but it is more one of vindication than of grief.

At least, that is the way I remember it, and memory can play tricks. I guess now I'll have to watch it again just to make sure.

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I took it that way as well. But I agree, the priest did come off as smug at times.

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Tracy's character comes off self-righteous and smug. Every time he was in a scene, I kept thinking "who the hell do you think you are?!" I wanted Gable to deck him.

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