How others will see it. Although based on a true story, 'modern' viewers might find the story preposterous. Could a man, clearly innocent as presented here, be convicted on weak circumstantial evidence? Well, yes, undoubtedly it has happened many times. But would the locals be so stirred up about it? Sure, especially in a close-knit small town in the days before television (and in 1915, before radio).
But, would there be such prejudice against a mere Yankee? Not likely. In the Frank trial, the defendant was Jewish, was not morally perfect, and came from a wealthy, privileged family. These were the true factors of prejudice, and the story makes more sense if the actual elements are substituted.
In any event, the film is compelling, and among those that lack a reflexive dislike for old black and white films, most should become interested in the fate of the hapless Mr. Hale, and his eternally loyal and courageous wife (Gloria Dickson).
How I felt about it. In its campaign against prejudice, They Won't Forget is guilty of some hypocrisy. Hale, his wife, and his investigative allies are always depicted in a virtuous and fearless light. Meanwhile, the southern people are generally (but not always) portrayed as easily manipulated and suspicious.
The newspaper reporter is grating and monumentally cynical. If Hale is executed but innocent, what does it matter since the ends (advancing his journalism career) certainly justify the means. Prosecutor Claude Rains coldly cloaks his ambitions for statewide office, but fools no one but himself when he proclaims he won't prosecute an innocent man.
Worst of all is the character of the black janitor. He is a frightened and poor educated Uncle Tom. And lazy, too, reading a dime store novel or sleeping instead of working. Young Elisa Cook Jr. is Mary's boyfriend, and he is both obnoxious and petty.
Not all southerners are depicted as bad. The courtroom judge, the state governor, and a Confederate veteran (Harry Davenport) are some exceptions. Still, the overall theme of the movie is an indictment of the South, perhaps not so out of place given that blacks couldn't even use the same drinking fountains as whites at the time.