"The Iron Orchard" is an adaptation of the novel by Tom Pendleton, and it follows the journey of Jim McNeely as he navigates the oil industry in a time when it was rapidly developing. The movie is set in the late 1930s.
After arriving in West Texas, Jim takes a job as a roustabout in the oilfields, working for a company run by J. P. "Loaner" Wilson. While there, he meets the beautiful Lee Montgomery, and the two begin a passionate relationship.
As Jim rises through the ranks, he becomes a wildcatter, which attracts the attention of Loaner Wilson's daughter, Charlotte. She tries to convince him to leave Lee and marry her instead, but Jim remains loyal to Lee.
Jim's success comes at a cost, however, as he becomes ruthless in his pursuit of oil and wealth, often going against his own moral code to get ahead. His actions result in tragedy and loss, forcing him to confront the consequences of his ambition.
Overall, "The Iron Orchard" is a gripping drama that explores themes such as love, success, and the corrupting influence of power in the oil industry.