Movita, Clark Gable, and Charles Laughton, Mutiny on the Bounty
In Mutiny on the Bounty, Clark Gable plays first mate Fletcher Christian who leads a revolt against his cruel commander, Captain Bligh (played to perfection by the wonderful Charles Laughton).
Mutiny on the Bounty (1935) was based on the real-life 1788 mutiny.
Directed by Frank Lloyd, the drama also stars (among others) Franchot Tone, Movita, Spring Byington, Herbert Mundin, and Donald Crisp.
Clark Gable (who had to shave his notorious mustache for historical accuracy) was less than thrilled when Franchot Tone was added to the cast. The two had fought famously for the affections of Joan Crawford while making Dancing Lady (Tone won and was, at this time, married to the beautiful actress). However, as shooting progressed, the two became good friends!
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Mutiny on the Bounty: Movita and Clark Gable
Mutiny on the Bounty (1935… I keep giving the date in an effort to make sure it is never confused with the latter film starring Marlon Brando) was the only film to receive THREE nominations for the Academy Award for Best Actor: Clark Gable, Charles Laughton, and Franchot Tone.
It was due to this that the Academy introduced a Best Supporting Actor Oscar shortly afterward to ensure this situation would not be repeated.
Each of these three actors lost to Victor McLaglen (The Informer, 1935). I honestly am, to this day, amazed that Charles Laughton didn’t win.