Red Desert

Ford Beebe the director was famous for his Universal Pictures serials in the thirties and forties, and later for the BOMBA film series, for Monogram company. He was not that ambitious, and had not much budget at his disposal either. But he was a good technician, a good worker, this western proves it. I watched it because of Tom Neal's presence, certainly not Don Red Barry. Tom Neal had an incredible presence on screen, no one can forget DETOUR. Yes, here Tom Neal steals the show as the villain. This western from Ford Beebe is far being a masterpiece but not a waste though; it deserves to be seen.

Barry plays the G-man sent to track the man who stole gold bullion. Trail leads Barry through desolate desert where survival is more than half the fight. Routine oater, notable only for the eerie organ music thru-out.

I saw this very unique western on TV as a kid (1950s), and it is one of the few movies that stuck with me all this time. Two things stood out - the lack of dialog and I was mesmerized by the background organ music. I know little about the story, other than it was an extended chase, but the atmosphere held me throughout. Other reviewers have indicated that it's a decent story with some surprises at the end.

Red Barry was a different kind of western hero, a tough little guy who didn't smile much. I've been a fan of his ever since, and always enjoyed coming across him in so many TV series. Would love to see Red Desert again, and would buy it if available.

I saw this movie many years ago, I guess in the early 50's. It was one of my favorites. I remember it being very atmospheric, especially the chase in the desert. It also had a great ending, a real surprise. I would love to see it again.