A 1941 cinematic masterpiece where a farmer bets his soul against the Devil himself
In short: Released in 1941, this fantasy film reimagines a classic folk tale through innovative cinematography and a haunting, Oscar-winning score. It follows a desperate farmer who trades his soul for seven years of prosperity, only to find himself trapped in a high-stakes legal battle against a charismatic, manipulative adversary.
Directed by William Dieterle, the film is based on Stephen Vincent Benét’s 1937 short story. The narrative centers on Jabez Stone, a struggling 19th-century New Hampshire farmer who impulsively sells his soul to a figure known as Mr. Scratch. In exchange, Stone receives seven years of immense wealth and good luck. However, as his fortune grows, Stone becomes increasingly cruel, alienating his family and falling under the influence of a sinister woman named Belle, who was sent by the Devil to ensure his moral decay.
As his contract nears its end, Stone turns to the legendary orator and lawyer Daniel Webster for salvation. The film’s climax features a surreal trial presided over by a judge from the Salem witch trials, with a jury composed of infamous historical figures, including notorious traitors and pirates. Webster, portrayed by Edward Arnold, argues that even those who have lost their way possess an inherent right to challenge their fate, successfully convincing the jury to void the contract.
Walter Huston’s portrayal of the Devil remains the film’s most enduring element. Rather than playing a traditional villain, he depicts a charming, avuncular character who hides his dark intentions behind a friendly facade. Despite critical acclaim and an Academy Award for its musical score, the film was a commercial failure upon its initial release. It was distributed under various titles, such as All That Money Can Buy, to avoid confusion with other studio productions, and significant portions were cut before being restored for later home video releases.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: The Devil and Daniel Webster | Fantasy, Folklore & Adaptation | Britannica
- Also: The Devil and Daniel Webster (film)
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