glennstenb Reviews

Ride Him, Cowboy (1932)

Take a Ride with "Ride Him, Cowboy."

[7/10 · 7 January 2024]

It is fascinating to see the breadth of the 20 reviews for "Ride Him, Cowboy," with the ratings ranging from a two to a nine. However, no matter what the ratings viewers for the most part agree that the film is entertaining.

The production values are professional, the acting is clean and competent, and the story is fresh in its variation and quite captivating. The scene where the camera pans around the room during the dance while the unpolished and authentically rustic sounds of "Till We Meet Again" play is highly affecting and had to have been carefully composed and choreographed ahead of time.

The largest problem with the film is that the subtle and often wry humor with which the seriously-toned story develops jarringly and uncomfortably turns a little too farcical toward the end; continued subtlety would have worked better. The final five minutes seem to have been edited in a rush and slapped-together, as well.

John Wayne presents a unique persona here in the early 1930s with his amiable, relaxed, cool, considerate, and, above all, pleasant character. And at this early career stage I can't see how he can be faulted for his acting work, as he seems already relatively smooth and fluid and appropriately reactive (some of his facial reactions during his courtroom trial were endearingly right on).

Contrast Wayne with other early 1930s heroes including Buck Jones (serious and measured), Harry Carey (fatherly and thoughtful), Bob Steele (scrappy but tender), Tim McCoy (resolute and regal), Hoot Gibson (satirical and self-deprecating) and Ken Maynard (down home action figure) and one realizes Wayne had already developed his own niche (did Johnny Mack Brown channel a little of Wayne when he settled for, on, and into his own western film career in 1935?)

Overall, "Ride Him..." is fun, competent, historically notable, and a tad different...and should be seen by anyone actually taking the time to look over these reviews.

Outlaw Trail (1944)

"Outlaw Trail" Lacks the Energy it Deserves

[6/10 · 6 January 2024]

"Outlaw Trail" was on first viewing disappointing, but improved considerably when, out of curiosity as to why I didn't really enjoy it, I went through it again.

Hoot Gibson and Bob Steele didn't seem as sparkling as usual in their roles; Chief Thundercloud (Victor Daniels) definitely was wooden in his portrayal as the third Trailblazer and his inept presence in the film really just accentuated the need for the absent Trailblazer Ken Maynard's fluid acting presence.

The acting awards for this program really belong to Charles King and Cy Kendall; Kendall in particular, shows once again subtle nuances of expression and how in tune he can be with his characters. He was a good actor.

The story concerns itself with the town run by Kendall's "Honest John" and how the Trailblazers are assigned to investigate the suspicious goings-on in the town. The story development is good but the energy exerted by many in the cast seems anemic. The story would have lent itself well to have been effectively played by an A-list B-western star like Tim McCoy or Buck Jones ten years earlier. Or even Bob Steele!

Additionally, the musical score is intrusive and at times irritating, taking attention away from the intrigue and dramatic atmosphere. I couldn't help but think how dramatic and involving those westerns from the early 1930's were with the absence of background music.

So although this movie is adequate to be enjoyed by fans of the genre one still might get the idea that better films await the attention of the viewer.

The Pocatello Kid (1931)

Fans of the Genre May Find "Pocatello Kid" Enjoyable

[6/10 · 31 December 2023]

Low-budget Amity Pictures' "The Pocatello Kid" from 1931 is a creaky affair but it is hard to take your eyes away from it after it gets going. The performances might be characterized as wooden by some, but the atmosphere is great and the cinematography, if one calls it that, isn't all that bad.

Star Ken Maynard switches from one role to another early on (from a bad man to a bad man seeing the light to a better way) and is effective in playing his role in a stiff sort of way, freely employing facial expressions to communicate his evolving life concerns, especially his feelings of not being on solid social ground.

Slender Charles King makes a strong impression as a one-eyed disreputable galoot, but it is Charles Kramer who really steals the show. Kramer, he of one of the strangest vocal deliveries and cadence in the biz, always livens up any screen he appears on, and here he is a most villainous character, calculating and obviously enjoying his own evil being, one you really come to hate. And where did he learn to speak like that?

Tarzan gets to show off some sparkling talents, too. All in all, the movie making here is a bit shaky but the enjoyment passed on to the viewer can be high for tolerant fans of the genre.

Fighting Shadows (1935)

"Fighting Shadows" is Suspenseful and Well Done

[7/10 · 30 December 2023]

"Fighting Shadows" is a suspenseful B-western from early in 1935 and is nicely photographed in black and white, shows care in its direction, acting, and dialog, and has the benefit of using a snow-covered coniferous forest (supposedly Canada) and log buildings in a rustic village as the location for the action. And for those who like variety from the norm in B-westerns, the action here doesn't include group gunfights, relentless horseback chases over dust-covered desert trails, nor a damsel in distress grieving over her recently shot father.

It gets a bit of getting used-to, not having McCoy sporting his ten-gallon hat and flowing scarf, but he looks proud and commanding in his Royal Canadian Mountie uniform. But it is the supporting cast, particularly big bully Ward Bond, the shaggy codger Si Jenks, and craggy Otto Hoffman, who carry the best roles.

The dialog is cogent and delivered naturally by the cast, who appear to have been rehearsed and prepared for the shoot. The opening tense manhunt over snow-covered forest is really filmed well, with long- and short-range camera work composed thoughtfully and edited with precision and care.

All around, "Fighting Shadows" is an excellent and fun Tim McCoy western. The only concern is with the ending, as it seems a little slapped-together and a tad fanciful, but others may disagree. And that is part of the fun of all this, right?

Cross Country Cruise (1934)

"Cross Country Cruise" is a Special Trip!

[8/10 · 30 December 2023]

"Cross Country Cruise" is a somewhat lighthearted title, for this totally entertaining little film has a strongly and unapologetically lurid undertone, all the while with a view to how people try to manipulate others, conspire to take advantage of others, and actually try to damage and even deal death to others in their efforts to seek life's desires and goals.

The story of how strangers on a cross-country bus schedule back in 1934 interact is the premise, and the delivery of the several primary relationships to the viewer is marvelous and wholly admirable. The characters are diverse and fascinating and the performances by the cast are, in general, done fully effectively. Lew Ayers is somewhat milky (as he often is) in this one, but Alan Dinehart, June Knight, and Alice White are all fully magnificent. Cameos and other support staff are all richly presented, too. I expect the cast knew that the story was quite far-fetched and incredulously appointed, but the crew probably really enjoyed making this flick. It really is a fantasy.

One aspect that really took hold for me was the glimpse of America in general-- and bus travel therein, in particular-- in 1934. Intercity bus travel was burgeoning in the early 1930s, as folks took to travel in ever-growing numbers, despite the Depression holding sway over the country. Bus transportation allowed people to move around more than ever as the country's road system began to take shape. By 1934 intercity bus travel, especially that provided by the rapidly-expanding network offered by Greyhound Lines, became reliable, relatively safe, and economical.

The other 1934 film in which bus travel was integral was "It Happened One Night," but "Cruise" took the bus component to an even more central level, being that the bus endured as the movie set for the entire program.

It was interesting that the film employed an actual Greyhound bus for the trip, as did "It Happened One Night," instead of using an unmarked coach, as so many other films where bus travel is featured have done (with all the shady doings going on in the movie, it is interesting to conjecture if Greyhound would today allow its name to be used in this one).

It was neat to see that a lavatory was on-board the coach, as was a drinking water dispenser with cups, along with sleeping pills, of all things. And did the schedules actually stop at front-line city-center hotels for 3- and 4-hour rest stops and shopping forays, and at county fairs for home-cooked meals and dancing, as depicted? Maybe they did then, as 1934 was just before the time when the golden era of bus station construction was beginning (and which examples were still bountiful and used as bus stations into the early 21st century).

All in all, watching "Cross Country Cruise" with this assemblage of diverse characters is a fun experience despite (or maybe even partially because of?) the fantastic story elements. An unusual movie worth watching for fans of 30s movies!

Whistling Hills (1951)

There is Fun in Them Thar "Whistling Hills"

[7/10 · 5 December 2023]

There have been two previously posted reviews on IMDb of "Whistling Hills," both thoughtful and right on. But as reviewer Mike-764 asserted, the film is strong, thanks to an imaginative story and well performed script. The film stands proudly beside JMB's earlier films during his heroic and valiant days in the mid 1930's. There is just something always so pleasant in watching JMB go through his paces, seeming nearly implausibly effective for such a nice and affable guy. JMB ws 46 years old in this one, and even though he looked a little jowly and well-fed, he also looked strong and ready for action. His fight scenes were energetic and well choreographed.

I. Stanford Jolley does a smooth job of putting across his character. By contrast, Noel Neill is the least effective; I have never felt that she was comfortable in her performances anywhere, never really natural.

In this film director Derwin Abrahams creates a gorgeous black and white movie and frames each scene with depth and balance of background, whether indoors, on the street, or out in the countryside.

The western town in this one is magnificent in its variety of structure types, too. The narrative related by the reviewer "honker" about the Iverson Ranch is not only charming and valuable, it is also beautifully written. I hope that here in 2023 he is still enjoying these old films, as there are so many now available, many more than in 2002.

Incidentally, I like Mike-764's announced way of rating B-westerns, the implication being that the ratings adhere to a different standard than other A-level features in Hollywood. Unfortunately I have not followed such a two-approach system, and it is too late to change horses in the stream now (even though I must admit I am prone to giving the B's a little more slack when coming up with their rating.

So for "Whistling Hills" I will assign a 7 of 10 rating, but if assigning a rating for B-westerns only I would join Mike in voting for a 9 of 10. For what was going on in B-westerns in and around 1951 with Rex Allen, Monte Hale, Sunset Carson, Wild Bill Elliott, Alan Lane, and others, this was a good picture.

Gunsmoke: The Wiving (1974) Season 20, Episode 6

Creepy, Unkempt, and Uncomfortable Viewing

[3/10 · 1 December 2023]

I was appalled to witness this disturbing mess of an installment of the revered Gunsmoke western series. The only thing really praiseworthy is the beautiful color and vibrancy of the photography, which for me is something I don't really want anyway. I always felt that Gunsmoke was superior to its competitor Bonanza, in part because Gunsmoke didn't have that glossy, polished, fake veneer that Bonanza so strongly had. Beyond that, the constant, busy, overly grandiose, and obviously manipulative music runs as a constant through this episode and becomes irritatingly obnoxious.

But the worst aspect of "The Wiving" episode is what all the other detractors have pointed out, so I won't reiterate those items.other than to clearly mention that an additional demerit for this episode is that the show's regular characters are essentially no shows, or at least yes shows for only a minute or two at best (Dillon, Doc, Newly, Festus, and of course Kitty, who had departed).

Although the four backward mountain men are revealed along the way to not be the rotten idiots we are introduced to, the episode nonetheless just feels disquieting, creepy, unkempt, and uncomfortable. Quite the entertaining train wreck viewing experience I must say.

Doomed at Sundown (1937)

Good Enough for Standard, Less so for Bob

[6/10 · 27 November 2023]

One would think that "Doomed at Sundown" would deliver a nifty B-western, what with the catchy title that actually does relate to the film (but sadly is not played up enough to make it of any value); a novel idea in the use of a weapon that should, but doesn't, inject intrigue into the program; and a support cast that includes the always fascinating visage of Warner Richmond.

Unfortunately, however, nothing really propels the film to its presumed promise. And although Steele starts off with some sarcastic and acerbic rejoinders to the antagonists early on, even he --the normally deeply-involved craftsman actor-- seems to be cooking with less steam than usual.

The film is good enough to be enjoyed for western fans, yes, and especially for viewers who like to see plenty of horses and riders galloping at a full tilt blur, but there is little beyond standard in this one to recommend it to the general public.

The Kid Ranger (1936)

"The Kid Ranger" Makes for a Good Ride

[7/10 · 26 November 2023]

"The Kid Ranger" is simple, raw, stark, and a bit grim, and although this combination of attributes would be limiting for many movie goers, fans of Bob Steele or 1930's westerns will find this a quite watchable venture.

Surprisingly, there is so much story, and the rest of the cast are so busy in telling the story, that Steele's screen time may be the lowest ever in a Bob Steele starring role. And that is fine, because the screen is alive and in good and fascinating stead with plenty of screen time for William Farnum and Earl Dwire.

Farnum shows off his characteristic exaggerated eye play, presumably a holdover acting approach from his silent movie days that he never shed, to good advantage; he always shows a lot of charisma. And then we have Earl Dwire in one of his most lecherous, treacherous, and sadistic bad guy portrayals of his career. One ends up really detesting Dwire after this one!

All in all, a pretty good story with a flowing script, a series of fascinating and gritty characterizations, and an appropriately unadorned atmosphere (thanks to a paltry budget) make for a tasty western movie experience.

Trailing North (1933)

Detailed Look at the Surprising and Enthralling "Trailing North"

[9/10 · 20 October 2023]

It is rare for a B-western to receive accolades and numerous 10's from IMDb members, but "Trailing North" is indeed one of those rare films for which there are plentiful and valid reasons to justify such attention.

This is indeed an adult western and the director, John P. McCarthy, shines so brightly here. He made a number of solidly atmospheric early westerns, several with Bob Steele, and repeatedly shows his mastery at scene composition and thoughtful camera manipulation with this near-epic. Writer Harry Fraser (a prolific director in his own right) must also be saluted for going the extra mile in helping to create a film with so much vitality.

First of all, this film is highly unusual in its setting, in that all the action takes place on snow-enshrouded, conifer-forested lands, with ear muffs and woolen caps, transit by dog sleds, snow shoes, and the heaviest of coats in full use. That the sets showcase mountain rusticity at its best is another strength. Obviously the creators of this film set out to make something special, perhaps to counter some of the higher quality B-westerns that Randolph Scott and director Henry Hathaway were doing in interpreting some Zane Grey stories over at Paramount.

Attention to detail is greatly appreciated, for example having snowshoes placed around the buildings that the characters frequent. I don't know if Doris Hill (as Mitzi) did the actual singing (she did come from vaudeville), but the song she sang is beautifully done and suggests in its sweetness a combination of Ruth Etting and Kate Smith.

Although the print I witnessed was crystal clear there was some irritating choppiness early on, including during Bob Steele's musical number. But the print smoothed out later. And some of the dialog is charmingly snappy.

Bob enjoys at least three kisses during the program, including two that are quite inspired and sensuous, which rival the intensity and meaningfulness of those from the era's mainstream cinema . Also unusual is that horses are few and far between, as are cowboy hats. This movie is certainly one that marches to its own drummer!

One affectingly memorable scene concerns the dissolving of lights surrounding the fireplace. Touches like the aforementioned all serve to make this a film one of true distinction.

Even with all these cinematic window dressings at play, they would be of less impact if the story itself was not excellent, which it is. The tension and sympathy mount as we vicariously experience Steele's conflict of falling in love with Doris, who he strongly suspects is complicit to an unspecified degree in the killing of his friend and admired mentor in law enforcement, which is the reason he is on this adventure in the first place. Additionally, too, Steele's scene with the expiring said Ranger Powers (actor Fred Burns) is about as poignant and well done as one will see in a B-western film.

The only complaint about "Trailing North" is that the ending is wrapped up a little too hurriedly and too antiseptically. But then again, an ending too conscious of itself might have left itself open to criticism, too.

So in conclusion, "Trailing North" is a feast for fans of early westerns and can easily be viewed more than once and enjoyed for all the richness it contains. Please enjoy!

Waterloo Bridge (1931)

"Waterloo Bridge" is a Heavy but Important Pre-code Film

[9/10 · 20 October 2023]

Unfortunately I stayed away from watching "Waterloo Bridge" all my life because of the title, which I just assumed meant a very "British" air would give the film a heavy-handed aura. But finally I got around to it when I realized it has received such a high rating from IBDb viewers (7.4). I mean, with a rating like that one should not shy away!

And wow, was I ever pleased to finally have witnessed it. Certainly a film worthy of repeated viewing if ever there was one, and for three big reasons: 1), the nuanced and affecting artistry of Mae Clarke's portrayal of Myra; 2), the varied and so well-crafted supporting characterizations; and 3), the sophisticated and fresh approaches to camera placement, scene framing, and fluid dialog offered up by this early James Whale direction.

The thing that bothers me about "Waterloo Bridge" is the unpleasant ending. I mean, there are a number of ways to end the film without resorting to running into a brick wall of sadness. The viewer could have been let out of the theater 1), not knowing if the two will ever actually get together; 2), given expectation that they will get together;3), or that even if Kent Douglass doesn't make it back from the war he would have died feeling good about the prospect of returning to the girl he loves, to mention three. Heck, a fourth is that Myra has some optimism that she may turn things around. There could be any number of ways the film could have concluded without its bleakness falling on the viewer like a collapsing building hit by a WWI German bomb. So why the terrible ending? Is it that she must be punished for her transgression? Maybe yes, in part because she is not actually responsible for any redemptive approach that has been shown so far. Oh, well.

As it is, the ending is just too dismal and bleak to make for anywhere near a satisfying finish. It is as if the original writer and the screen adapter just ran out of time or patience to provide anything other than a dismal ending. We all know war is hell, and that prostitutes are not God's special darlings, but why hit the viewer with such an unpleasant and really silly ending?

So even though "Waterloo Bridge" is brilliant and magnificently fascinating to watch and enjoy for so many reasons, because of the ending I just cannot go that one extra digit and bestow a 10 on this one. However, fans of great films should indeed experience this one.

The Silver Bullet (1935)

"The Silver Bullet" Makes a Fun Impression!

[7/10 · 8 September 2023]

Although "The Silver Bullet" is competently-enough made and moves along with a solid story, it becomes a surprisingly fun and engrossing western with some of the genres most-appreciated players plying their trade. The reason the film moves into the engrossing realm is owing to some unusual plot devices and some off-the-beaten-track characterizations. In addition, the title actually refers to something meaningful in the film!

The sets are attractively rustic and varied and there are many group scenes with the players interacting in happy times, stressful times, and tense times. For sure this effort was made on the cheap, but the cast and crew seem to be having a ball putting it together.

A particular treat is that Lafe McKee has a close-to-rare major role in this one. Yes, Lafe is usually one of the stiffest frequently-assigned actors west of the Pecos, but there is just no denying there is something about him that just yells out "old west." Adding to his allure here is that Lafe sports a head of black hair for a time, this during an unusual flashback scene to when he was a younger man.

Fans of B-westerns should find this Tom Tyler adventure exciting and satisfying.

West of Cimarron (1941)

"West of Cimarron" and South of Scintillating

[6/10 · 29 August 2023]

Our favorite trio in "West of Cimarron" have just wrapped up their efforts in the Civil War and are lazily making their way back to Texas hoping for some peace and quiet when they instead find themselves involved up to their holsters in intrigue and trouble between carpetbaggers and bushwackers.

This 3M installment has little going for it in terms of novelty, adventure, or excitement. Neither the activities nor the acting seem inspired and the story is as dull as an over-sunned rattler. I don't even recall the inclusion of one of Bob (Tucson Smith) Steele's patented fistfights. For sure there are horseback chases and gunfights, but they just don't have as much spark as one might wish for.

Tom Tyler might have just as well sent in a telegram for the little he does here. And as for Rufe Davis, he doesn't even physically look like the Lullaby we have come to expect, showing little inclination for comical antics and sometimes looking detached and out of character. He does, however, have a chance to sing a song about watermelons while hawking said fruit with a pushcart in a blackface disguise.

All in all, this film is on the uninspired and dull side and I would recommend fans looking for a fun 3M episode search one out that has garnered an IMDb rating higher than the 6.0 that this one has received.

Barnaby Jones: A Simple Case of Terror (1977) Season 5, Episode 15

Barnaby Heads to Long Beach Pike in Tense Satisfying Tale

[7/10 · 27 August 2023]

"A Simple Case of Terror" is an above average installment of the Barnaby Jones adventures. The story is taut and not implausible, the main guest characters are unusually conflicted about their behaviors, and the crime boss, if you will, has a certain distinctive quality as played by Michael V. Gazzo. What's more, there is an unusual dollop of mixed emotions for the viewer engendered by the perpetrators of the unfortunate misdeeds.

The biggest treat, however, is that the culminating scene was filmed among the remnants of the old Nu Pike amusement park in Long Beach, CA., just before the concerted dismantling of the structures was accomplished and the urban renewal projects began which would completely transform the downtown area. Not only are many of the dormant rides eerily on display, but the then fairly new Long Beach City Hall is also fleetingly seen, as is the circular Long Beach Arena in its old beige and white paint job. For viewers who fondly remember the old and dearly departed downtown Long Beach this episode will hold even more intrinsic value than merely the satisfying unfolding story alone.

Barnaby Jones: Testament of Power (1977) Season 5, Episode 13

A "Testament" to Barnaby Guessing Right Again!

[7/10 · 25 August 2023]

I don't know of a TV private detective program more enjoyable to watch than Barnaby Jones, except for the Rockford Files. Nice photography, thoughtful musical score, and a reassuring hero who moves among quality people, the show is fairly undemanding and pleasant, even though murder is the starter. But the series is also supremely predictable and follows an established formula in most episodes. In almost every episode there are two or three times I just have to blurt out loud, "Oh no, another incredulous moment!" And so it is with "Testament of Power."

Three instances come to mind right away with this one. First, a piece of a rarely seen flower just happens to tear off a plant during the committing of the predicating evil deed and ends up clinging to a fabric to become key evidence. Second, the all-important last will and testament happens to conveniently pop out at a most opportune time in a place of extreme unlikelihood.

But in this episode my biggest beef is during the culminating resolution sequence. This is when the victim is in great peril and Barnaby and J. R. show up just in the nick of time at the victim's house. Inside the poor girl is grabbed and being hustled out the residence's back door to the bad guys' white van, stuffed inside, and rushed away in a kidnapping, all while our two heroes are at the front door knocking urgently, knowing she is in peril here at the house.

Suddenly they see the van, which they know from an earlier encounter belongs to the suspects, speeding out and away from behind the house. The problem for me is that our heroes can't possibly know what is going on with the girl. But at the sight of the van speeding away they run to their own car to begin a hot pursuit of the van, not knowing the immediate situation of the girl. She could be in the house injured, in the house with one of the gang members, maybe fleeing in terror down the back alley away from the house, maybe dead, or indeed maybe in the van being kidnapped. But Barnaby and J. R. wouldn't know, but yet they luck out and indeed make the right choice and follow the van. Well, luckily things worked out.

But even with these frequent story exasperators I always seem to enjoy the episodes. And this is just one more of them.

Barnaby Jones: Final Ransom (1976) Season 5, Episode 5

The "Final Ransom" is a Little Starker than Most BJ Episodes

[7/10 · 17 August 2023]

Although the players in the "Final Ransom" episode approach their work in fine fashion, particularly the ever-dependable and despicable villain Gary Lockwood and the sweet little girl Stacey Baldwin, the story, which is centered around a long-delayed kidnapping and ransom demand, is an unusually bleak story that leaves one feeling depressed and possibly even devoid of hope. Essentially there are no winners and most of the principals come out worse for wear. It can be unsettling for a viewer when an episode of a dramatic TV series features a targeted and victimized child as the centerpiece of the action.

The locales include a scenic residential enclave in an idyllic mountainous oak and deciduous woodland, which serves to make the ending even more stark and disturbing. As mentioned by another reviewer, Barnaby's parting commentary is a tad difficult to fathom and maybe too rosy, but at least he didn't utter it to any of the adversely affected parties.

Although there are some developments in the story that are not totally logical and practical, the episode is well-played, well-directed, and moves swiftly.

Beyond that, let me add that Lt. Biddle is a curiosity, seemingly even having a split personality. Maybe because he is just plain overworked; but Biddle seems to be a pal who is wholly supportive of Barnaby's visits and requests for help in some episodes, and in others expresses irritation, exasperation, and even contempt for our hero.

For this one, at least, watch at the risk of finishing up just a little morose.

Barnaby Jones: Deadline for Dying (1976) Season 5, Episode 2

Shera Settles Into the Series as BJ's Assistant

[7/10 · 15 August 2023]

I have enjoyed the BJ series for fifty years now, mostly because Buddy Ebsen's Jones character is uniquely older, gentlemanly, patient, down home, and to some degree, eccentric. His drinking milk and puttering around in his lab added to his mystique.

I always also enjoy the window dressing provided by the ever-pleasant, empathetic, and understatedly hot Lee Meriwether, who is dependable for her admiringly appreciative looks at Jones and her eager fascination with Jones' sleuthing techniques. It is a hoot to see Merrwether being invited to look into a microscope at some astounding revelatory clue and admit she doesn't know what she is looking at. It seems like once a year she gets to be the subject of a show as a damsel in distress.

Even seeing Jones arriving somewhere in his car and climbing out of it several times in each installment never gets old. Unfortunately, Ebsen apparently became eager to wind down his time on set so in came Mark Shera, and although Shera evolved into a decent enough character, his appearance kind of marked the beginning of the show's end even though it took three years to reach the finish line.

In the first few episodes of the fifth season Shera's character JR was just a dash too obnoxious to make for a comfortable acceptance among BJ's dyed in the wool fans, but as he toned down his NYC accent and became a little more subdued and thoughtful Shera became increasingly tolerable. Of course, as the show moved into the final two seasons, JR took over most of the field sleuthing duties and we distressingly saw less and less of Barnaby himself.

But in this second episode of the season we are still fortunate to still have it nearly all Barnaby!

Gun Smoke (1945)

JMB's Jack McKenzie Goes to Town in This One

[6/10 · 2 August 2023]

"Gun Smoke" is a compact, attention-holding Johnny Mack Brown western in his Jack McKenzie series that comes in at just under an hour for the ever-budget conscious Monogram Studios.

In this installment Johnny Mack and his crusty and trusty partner Raymond Hatton go to work on a case in a semi-deserted little town that is full of mystery and intrigue. Most of the story unfolds indoors but there are enough outdoor scenic stretches to keep the pacing alive and interesting. The horseback riding and stagecoach scenes are well done.

JMB is still the pleasant and dashing hero we know and admire and he still looks fit and agile, even though he had been traversing the cinematic sagebrush trails for fifteen years by now. One might notice, however, that he is just a tad meaner in dishing out punishment in his barroom fights than in days of yore.

The cinematography is crisp, and the continuity and editing is really excellent. This is a solid B-western and should provide a nice hour of fun for fans of the genre.

Last of the Warrens (1936)

"Last of the Warrens" Is Curiously Satisfying

[7/10 · 29 July 2023]

"Last of the Warrens" is a swiftly moving film with no sidetracks and provides opportunities for the players to actually show off some acting skills. Bob Steele, of course, is an accomplished performer, but he is supported well by expressive and gorgeous Margaret Marquis (with whom Steele shares some surprisingly sumptuous kisses), dastardly Charles King (check out King's detailed approach to his craft when he writes out the letter at the table with one of his henchmen), and Horace Murphy, among others. Why, we even have the pleasure of Lafayette McKee's company as the sheriff (although McKee wasn't exactly an actor prone to displaying fluidity, he had a rustic presence that was always welcome in westerns).

That the story is predicated on a feud between families is really of no particular consequence in the details and telling of the story. There are a few plot expediencies that are curious, including the one where King was so tired that he just had to take a nap--talk about curious-- I don't remember such a blatantly odd contrivance in a film in a long time. But it was one way to make the wrap-up possible! And one can also wonder about King's sloppy approach in dealing dirt with Steele's dad. There are others, too, but they are all part of the fun.

Be advised that prints available range from poor to very good, so try to settle on a good one. In summary, then, this is a fun little B-effort and fans of the genre' and of Steele and the stock company will eat it up with relish!

Out of the Blue (1947)

Very Glad to Have Given "Out of the Blue" a Try!

[8/10 · 28 July 2023]

"Out of the Blue" is an example of one of those films which result in considered reviews that range from 3 stars to 10 , all of which have credibility and deserve respect. With 18 reviews already registered I would normally not add yet another, but I would like to offer my appreciation and even my admiration for the project.

To begin with, the title is dull and doesn't serve to lather up interest on the part of potential viewers. But one would think the cast would engender interest, as they indeed are composed of participants plying their trade in ways we the viewers are not accustomed to. I believe they all did excellent work and played it the way the director, Leigh Jason, imagined. The writing flows well and naturally, and seldom, if ever, did it occur to me that a line was inappropriate or without logic.

For me the picture is more comfortably placed in the absurdist-droll arena rather than the zany-screwball realm, and really plays more like something akin to movies with dark humor deriving from the late 1950's to mid 1960's. It is a pleasure to see so many veteran hands having fun with something so different from their usual assignments, including Turhan Bey; he looked like a sly so-and-so at the beginning but I came to like his character as the show unfolded.

How they even came to cast Ann Dvorak in this expressively comedic role would be nice to know, and I don't think she overplayed it; if her performance were out of sorts the picture would have been rendered bereft of value. The rest of the players really offered subtle readings compared to what could have been, including George Brent, whose facial expressions were not, as some reviewers have declared, merely mugging. Virginia Mayo might have been the only one who did not have a lot of comedic antics to lend or lines to say, but she too turned in an expert reading, often as the "straight" woman. And her eyes in this film are used to excellent advantage.

I can imagine "Out of the Blue" disappeared pretty fast and without much after-chatter after spending a couple of weeks in neighborhood theaters back in 1947, but I enjoyed spending time with this group of performers and appreciate that the film was created and is here for us to enjoy all these decades later.

The Boiling Point (1932)

Fun Escapism Reaches "The Boiling Point"

[8/10 · 21 July 2023]

Not surprisingly, I went into looking at "The Boiling Point" expecting to like it and I indeed did. It is rare that a Hoot Gibson film doesn't please, for he is pleasant and unique in his approach to being a cowboy hero. I have long recognized that he has "amiable grit." It seems like he finds something distinctive to characterize each of his roles, and he played of them over the years.

In this clever little story, which just happens to be set in the old West, Hoot is sent away to a relative's ranch to prove he can hold his volatile temper under lock and key, for if he doesn't he would be forfeiting his right to inherit the most magnificent family ranch in the Pecos. Unfortunately for him, he finds more to irritate him in his new surroundings than he did back home.

The story is cleverly told and done with even a stronger undercurrent of comedic expression than we have come to expect. Deftly done, for sure. And although there are some outdoor escapades and daring-do's on display, this picture is really more cerebral than outdoorsy. But with what is going outside and with all the indoor proceedings, the picture is quite rustic and austerely authentic.

The cast is full of comfortable stalwarts and familiar faces, including Tom London, old-school Lafe McKee, two-faced Wheeler Oakman, and an appearance by setup man George Hayes.

"The Boiling Point" is one of those pictures where the story envelops the viewer and absorbs him or her into the story, meaning the show is escapist fare at its old West best and should not be avoided by anyone who likes or appreciates the lineage of classic western film.

The Cariboo Trail (1950)

Randolph Finds Adventure on "The Cariboo Trail"

[7/10 · 19 July 2023]

I am certain that if I had seen "The Cariboo Trail" in the black and white version I would not have enjoyed it as much as I did. Luckily, I saw the restored color version and it is grand and beautiful to be sure. Some prints of the Cinecolor original are out there, too, and I took a look to compare and, well, with the color dull and and the image a little fuzzy, there isn't really any comparison! Unless one sees the restored version you may be shortchanging yourself with a considerably less pleasing viewing event.

Beyond that, although the picture is no epic, even though the incessant overwrought music seems to signal that it wants to be, it has plenty of action, beautiful scenic locales, distinctive Canadian town sets, and the always in-control personage of Randolph Scott. The supporting cast is fine, especially Victor Jory who nicely underplays his irritating and dastardly villainous character. George Hayes aka Gabby does his usual thing for the last time in a feature film. The makeup team should be given a nod because throughout the film those characters facing the hardships of outdoor work and travel look appropriate grimy and sunbaked.

Some of the roles may be a little predictably too by-the-book, but at least the romance doesn't get in the way of the story, including no ubiquitous vying for the lady's fair hand. And that may be why the picture comes in at an economical running time of around 80 minutes, not bad for a front-line western picture.

Recommended for Randolph Scott followers, Gabby Hayes completists, and for armchair enjoyers of scenic movies, but the latter only if you have the restored and enhanced color print.

Silver Spurs (1936)

"Silver Spurs" Isn't Quite Gold, But It is Good!

[7/10 · 18 July 2023]

For a B-western "Silver Spurs" is a seriously and competently put-together film, with director Ray Taylor interweaving the expected cowboy hero action, plot revelations, somber passages, and even Buck's surprisingly long romantic interludes with Muriel Evans in a swiftly-moving package.

The film's most rewarding component is the acting, which is led by the ever-unique Buck Jones's style of pausing to process, but with excellent turns also by villain Robert Frazer and the two female leads, Evans and B-western princess Beth Marion. Marion's crying scene is expert, as she impressively employs facial muscles that are actually used in crying (many modern-day actresses still don't get crying done properly!). George Hayes is always welcome, but in this picture he really is window dressing and doesn't contribute much screen time.

Attention to sets and action detail is excellent, including, for example, how Buck is shown tying down the suitcases in the back of the carriage in preparation for the trip to the ranch. In many pictures such a process would be understood and not played out; either this is great caring for detail or maybe just a time expander? This might be a good debate topic! Another example is how past the foreground and through an open door we can see the train station manager preparing the office for his absence when he needs to go out to the platform and meet an incoming train. Scenes like these two mentioned just make it seem like the filmmakers care about their product.

The curious portrayal of Buck's and Muriel's developing romance is surprisingly embraced and they even seem to have an assigned sweet and lilting leitmotif. Buck demonstrates his longing and inner conflict about getting busy with her sweetly, but in a quite manly sort of way.

I for one am not a fan of musical scoring in movies, particularly B-westerns, as in so many cases it interferes with the dramatics and sometimes even seems inappropriate. In the mid 1930's the larger studios often sent their B-westerns to the scoring department and too often the films came out on the unfortunate side of the ledger. In "Silver Spurs" the opening credits music is really good, snazzy and modern for 1936, and the previously mentioned romantic leitmotif for the romance sections work nicely. But the music for the more exciting segments seem just a little too manipulative for my taste, even though I will admit it is synched well, albeit superfluous.

The most troubling moment for me concerned the train station robbery, and especially its aftermath. Even though subtle, it seemed to have been made clear that the station master, whom we had just begun to like and appreciate, came to a bad end during the robbery, but the immediate reaction to it by both Muriel and Buck seems just a little too cavalier and ho-hum. Maybe the stronger, more appropriate reactions ended up on the cutting room floor.

In the final analysis, however, "Silver Spurs" is a satisfying entry in the class and all fans of Buck Jones will be glad to have seen it, I am sure.

Harmony Trail (1944)

Ken Bids Us 'So Long' from the Harmony Trail"

[7/10 · 16 July 2023]

"Harmony Trail" stars the beloved Ken Maynard in his last starring cowboy-hero role. After twenty or so years the earnest, sensitive, and amiable cowboy hero, recognized by many as the most spectacular horse rider of them all, took on the bad guys one final time.

Happily, the film reveals a well-told, although indeed familiar story with a comfortable cast of favorite supporting players and presents plenty of gunplay, fistfights, and horse action. For some there will be the added bonus of Eddie Dean's singing boogie woogie and western swing numbers. It just so happens that this movie is a good one!

Knowing that Ken would play no more hero leads makes for a kind of bittersweet viewing experience. But it is heartwarming to see Ken given a final showcase to twirl his rope and sharpshoot his gun for the amazement of his fans. And with Dean's warbling and Ruth Roman's dancing rhythms, this is a fun and positive parting program for Ken. Why heck, even Tarzan gets to show off some of his skills one final time.

This is one more of those pictures where the action unfolds in an anachronistic old west setting, where automobiles and motor trucks and horse-drawn stagecoaches have equal opportunity to be chased by gun slinging, horseback-riding outlaws, but most of us fans find it just an additional dimension in enjoying some adventurous hours.

It is quite the sight to witness the final brawl of the film, a fight that spills out to the street between the ever-appreciated villain Charles King and our hero Ken. I couldn't help but think how these two men knocking each other around represented more than 500 pounds of beef on the hoof! One might even sense that the final words spoken by King to Maynard at the fight's conclusion were said in admiration.

Luckily, the final words uttered in the film are spoken by Ken himself, and turn out to be, in a way, quite appropriate to the occasion. And then, most fittingly of all, up wells the music, a poignant rendition of the song "Home on the Range," with Ken and his entourage striding off into the sunset.

Yes, "Harmony Trail" is an important film-viewing experience, one which all western film fans should not put off!

The Stranger from Arizona (1938)

Enjoy Some Comedy With "The Stranger From Arizona"

[6/10 · 9 July 2023]

There are a couple of attributes that make "The Stranger From Arizona" worth watching for B-western fans. First, the film sets out to be a comedy, which breaks from Buck Jones' traditionally sober and downright serious stories and character development. Some of the comedy is physical, handled for the most part by Hank Worden's interpretation of Skeeter, Buck's sidekick. Save for a slim Roy Barcroft, most everyone gets their turns at wry commentary and deftly comedic dialaog, while Buck shines brightly in his droll wordplay and perfectly-timed and appropriately nuanced expressions.

Second, fist fights, gun play, and breathtaking horseback riding are kind of minimized in favor of story development and dialog, which are adequate at best, and the comedic interplay of the players, which flows fairly smoothly. Fact is, even the usually-active Silver doesn't have much to offer in this one.

The budget is obviously meager for this film, and if it weren't for its unusual and highly comedic flavor this film would be too simple and without sufficient self-propulsion, suspense, or action to merit recommendation to anyone but Buck Jones fans seeking a Buck who takes a break from his usual stoic self or to fans of 1930's B-westerns who wish to see something with a comedic difference.

And finally, stay tuned and listen for Buck's parting words for a final, very 1930's-modern surprise!