Audácia de Tirano

"The California Trail" carries a story that somewhat strays off the standard B-western fare, set as it is in 1838 pre-statehood California. Additionally, the film provides a variety of sets and costuming to warrant an eager viewing by fans of the genre' and, of course, fans of the great Buck Jones.

As we have come to expect of Jones' films the story is a serious tale with a number of grim decorations. There are a few humorous moments but they are fleeting and do not interfere with the program. Jones has several costume changes and looks stunning in all of them, while Helen Mack is gorgeous as the seniorita who has her expressive eyes opened to the truth along the way.

Director Lambert Hillyer, a veteran of many a B-western tale, employs a fluid camera style that helps keep the dramatics flowing and often has backdrop action that helps to explain and interpret the foreground interaction between the players. Many of the sets, such as the jail and the hacienda's dining room, are expertly appointed and lighted. And, as a bonus, Columbia must have upped the budget just a little for this one from the average for their westerns because the cast of townspeople and soldiers are really numerous.

In sum, the story is different, compelling, and well-told and the cast are fascinating in their looks and actions. I don't know of anything that is not to like and enjoy in "The California Trail."