Wrangler Reviews

711 Ocean Drive (1950)

Excellent reflection of '50's style

[7/10 · 7 July 2007]

A better than routine, if not exceptional, noir crime drama, with O'Brien excellent in the lead, and good casting throughout. Opening and closing textural comments convey the sense that this is more of a sensational expose of syndicate control of horse-race betting (a major West coast institution if there ever was one), produced "under threat". That remains to be seen. What is undeniable is that a well-paced tale of one man's ambition is engagingly portrayed. Of particular interest are the wonderful filming locations in the L.A. area -- rich streetscapes--full of marvelous period detail, "Modern" architecture as seen in circular drive-ins, open plan houses, groovy bars ands nightclubs, and some flavor of Palm Springs weekending. With the evolution of O'Brien's character from a telephone repairman into a major crime so well reflected in the improvements in his dress, along with the sartorial variety among the leads, one gets a nice sense of personal style in this period. Worth a look.

The Son of Davy Crockett (1941)

The "son" is asked to help bring Texas into the Union.

[8/10 · 21 October 1998]

While strictly B fare, this modest little film zips right along. Elliot is excellent, Hayes has lines that don't insult your intelligence and Iris Meredith is easy on the eyes.

Lawman (1971)

An overly-focused marshall in his pursuit of "justice".

[4/10 · 10 October 1998]

Starts out well, with a good production and photography then slides downhill, becoming tedious and overly violent. As much (if not more) zoom lens work as the average Asian Indian movie. It's as if a good film was underway when the makers decided to change horses and make it more like the Italian westerns.

The Kid from Texas (1950)

The 3rd or 4th(?) "true" story of "Billy the Kid"

[7/10 · 10 October 1998]

An excellent but non-too-accurate story, given strong production, and featuring Audie Murphy, in his first starring role. Murphy's a bit wooden, but he delivers. Entertaining.

In Early Arizona (1938)

Early version of the Wyatt Earp/Tombstone/OK Corral saga.

[6/10 · 9 September 1998]

Very good cast, esp. Elliot, very good production, but absolutely zero character development. The film's over and you hardly know, let alone CARE about, a single character.

The Great Northfield Minnesota Raid (1972)

The James-Younger Gang goes for the "perfect" score.

[7 September 1998]

In spite of some memorable visuals, the result is confusing and surprisingly tedious. There is not one character/person you care about.

Born to the West (1937)

a cowboy decides to quit drifting, and is tested.

[7/10 · 7 September 1998]

According to author Tony Thomas, this film shot adrenaline into the careers of both John Wayne and Johnny Mack Brown. It's pretty entertaining, with a good story, fine cast, terrific scenery and excellent camerawork.

Born to the West (1937)

A cowboy suddenly decides to quit drifting, and is tested.

[7/10 · 7 September 1998]

According to author Tony Thomas, this film shot adrenalin into the lagging careers of both John Wayne and Johnny Mack Brown. It's very entertaining, with a good story, fine cast, terrific scenery and excellent camerawork.

The Gallant Legion (1948)

Excellent all-around. One of Republic's A-budget...

[9/10 · 28 August 1998]

Excellent all-around. One of Republic's A-budget productions. It remains probably the best film yet(1998) about the Texas Rangers, far more realistic and respectful than King Vidor's `The Texas Rangers' (1936). Elliot is impressive.

Four Faces West (1948)

First rate story, production, and cast. Not a sho...

[10/10 · 27 August 1998]

First rate story, production, and cast. Not a shot is fired is this wonderfully low-key story.

War of the Buttons (1962)

Opposing gangs of pre-teen boys in rural France.

[10/10 · 19 August 1998]

A real delight. Wistfully nostalgic for the innocence and inspired creativity of childhood. Hilarious in parts. Why is this such an obscure film?

Bad Man of Deadwood (1941)

A young cowpoke tries to clear his name by helping businessmen fight a monopoly.

[6/10 · 19 August 1998]

Better than usual Roy Rogers film, from the refreshingly different pre-Dale days, when Roy's films had plots with a few musical numbers added, instead of being musical reviews with a few plot elements added. You won't feel insulted watching this. And, if you are a B-western fan, you'll enjoy the familiar faces in the fine supporting cast.