Watch SAN FRANCISCO, California

San Francisco is a 1936 American disaster film directed by W.S. Van Dyke and starring Clark Gable, Jeanette MacDonald, and Spencer Tracy. The movie is set in 1906 San Francisco, a bustling metropolis where rich and poor live side by side. The plot focuses on a love triangle between a saloon owner, Blackie Norton (Clark Gable), a singer, Mary Blake (Jeanette MacDonald), and a sophisticated piano player, Jack Burley (Jack Holt).

At the start of the film, Blackie is the king of the Barbary Coast, a notorious area of the city known for gambling, drinking, and prostitution. Mary arrives in San Francisco hoping to make it as a singer, and Blackie is immediately smitten with her. However, Jack also falls for Mary and offers to help her career. Mary is torn between the two men, but eventually chooses Blackie.

As the romance between Blackie and Mary heats up, an earthquake strikes San Francisco, leaving the city in ruins. The rest of the film follows the aftermath of the disaster as Blackie and Jack work together to rescue survivors and rebuild the city.

San Francisco is a visually stunning film that showcases some of the best special effects of its time. The earthquake scenes are particularly impressive, with buildings crumbling and people running for their lives. The film also features a memorable musical score, including the songs "San Francisco" and "The Last Rose of Summer."

Despite the disaster film genre, San Francisco is ultimately a love story. The chemistry between Gable and MacDonald is palpable, and their duets are some of the highlights of the film. The love triangle between Blackie, Mary, and Jack adds dimension to the story, and the audience is left wondering until the end which man Mary will choose.

In addition to the romance and disaster elements, San Francisco also explores the socioeconomic divide between the different classes in the city. Blackie's saloon is a haven for the working-class, while Jack represents the upper echelons of San Francisco society. The earthquake levels the playing field, at least temporarily, and the characters are forced to come together to rebuild their city.

San Francisco is a classic film that has stood the test of time. It was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it still resonates with audiences today. The themes of love, sacrifice, and community are timeless, and the visuals are still breathtaking. San Francisco is a must-see for anyone interested in classic Hollywood cinema or disaster films.