Excellent cast in flawed version of 'Romeo and Juliet Out West'
My guess is George Plympton didn't have the last word among the writers of this exciting and violent Western, though this film has such an excellent title, he must have had lots of input.
But there is one big silly spot that just made and makes so little sense, it's hard to understand why everyone involved didn't complain. Watch and you'll see it. It is downright ridiculous, but doesn't really detract terribly from the overall plot. In fact, it does show one aspect of Wild West life that does not get emphasized enough. Call it chivalry.
Essentially the plot is another version of "Romeo and Juliet," but the enmity between the lovers' families is artificial and stirred up by a "shyster lawyer," excellently played by the under-valued Karl Hackett.
Bob Steele, whose acting just got better and better as he worked his way through nearly 250 roles, is this film's "Romeo." His "Juliet" is played by the very lovely, bright, and capable Louise Stanley, another terribly under-used actress who should have had, based on her looks and talent, many years of performances.
There is a too-dark version at YouTube. If you can find a better version, I hope you grab the chance to view it. If not, catch the one at YouTube. I hope you don't get all the commercial interruptions I did, but the film is a good one. Do see it.
But there is one big silly spot that just made and makes so little sense, it's hard to understand why everyone involved didn't complain. Watch and you'll see it. It is downright ridiculous, but doesn't really detract terribly from the overall plot. In fact, it does show one aspect of Wild West life that does not get emphasized enough. Call it chivalry.
Essentially the plot is another version of "Romeo and Juliet," but the enmity between the lovers' families is artificial and stirred up by a "shyster lawyer," excellently played by the under-valued Karl Hackett.
Bob Steele, whose acting just got better and better as he worked his way through nearly 250 roles, is this film's "Romeo." His "Juliet" is played by the very lovely, bright, and capable Louise Stanley, another terribly under-used actress who should have had, based on her looks and talent, many years of performances.
There is a too-dark version at YouTube. If you can find a better version, I hope you grab the chance to view it. If not, catch the one at YouTube. I hope you don't get all the commercial interruptions I did, but the film is a good one. Do see it.
- morrisonhimself
- Oct 20, 2022