Belle Le Grand

This false western is purely a Republic Pictures trademark, with also Universal Studios too, but on a lesser scale for the latest producing company. This "western" takes place during the Old West period, yes but that doesn't make it a western. It only takes place in cabarets,, dancing hall music hall atmosphere with romance intrigue rivalry between men for a gal.... No monument valley settings no desert no canyon no sheriff, no outlaws, no Indians nor posse or military fort. Republic gave many pictures like this for instance JUBILEE TRAIL but this latest was a bit more western though. Some western from the forties and produced for Universal for instance John Wayne for PITTSBURGH, looked more or less the same,and concerning THE SPOILERS...Hmmm. So, now that's up to you to watch it or not. It is not interesting to me.

Well done picture with Vera Ralston playing title role. She goes to jail for murder allowing slimy husband to escape. On her release she finds little sister in orphanage and vows to get her out. She becomes famous gambling queen and finances sister's singing career,unknown to the sister. Nice period sets and costumes with good direction by Alan Dwan with fine supporting cast. Muriel Lawrence shines as young soprano out to conquer world. Pity she only made three films. A bigger career wasn't in her future. Vera is very good.