Moonrise

Main Plot

"Moonrise," directed by Frank Borzage, follows the story of Danny Hawkins, a young man haunted by the legacy of his father's execution for murder. Growing up in a small Southern town, Danny is tormented by his peers and struggles with his own inner demons. One night, in a fit of rage and self-defense, he accidentally kills his tormentor, Jerry Sykes. Consumed by guilt and fear of being discovered, Danny tries to cover up the crime. As he navigates his relationships with his childhood friend Gilly and his love interest, schoolteacher Gilly Johnson, Danny grapples with his conscience and the weight of his actions. The film explores themes of redemption, the impact of the past on the present, and the possibility of forgiveness.

Characters

• Dane Clark plays Danny Hawkins, a troubled young man haunted by his father's execution, who struggles with guilt and love while facing the consequences of his actions.
• Gail Russell plays Gilly Johnson, a compassionate schoolteacher who falls in love with Danny Hawkins, helping him confront his troubled past and seek redemption.
• Ethel Barrymore plays Grandma in the film, offering wisdom and moral guidance to the troubled protagonist, Danny, as he grapples with guilt and redemption.

Ending Explained

In the 1948 film "Moonrise," directed by Frank Borzage, the story culminates in a dramatic and redemptive conclusion. The protagonist, Danny Hawkins, is tormented by the legacy of his father's execution for murder, which haunts him throughout his life. His internal struggle reaches a peak when he accidentally kills his tormentor, Jerry Sykes, during a fight. Consumed by guilt and fear, Danny goes on the run, hiding in the swamps. As the authorities close in, Danny's love interest, Gilly Johnson, along with his friend Mose, a reclusive swamp dweller, and his grandmother, provide him with emotional support. They help him confront his inner demons and the reality of his actions. In a poignant moment of self-realization, Danny decides to face the consequences of his actions rather than continue running. He surrenders to the sheriff, symbolizing his acceptance of responsibility and his desire for redemption. The film concludes with a sense of hope and moral resolution, as Danny's willingness to atone for his crime suggests a possibility for personal redemption and societal forgiveness.