User Reviews

Ken Maynard made eight films with director Phil Rosen, of which this is the second last. The team finished off an extremely high note with Whistlin' Dan (1932). In this one, Ken plays an outlaw named Bill Dane who decides to reform and takes a job as sheriff in a small western mining town. Needless to say, feathers fly when his old gang learns of this appointment. Matters are complicated by Ken's old outlaw buddy – well played by Lloyd Ingraham – and the simple fact that Ken falls for the banker's attractive daughter, enacted here by Sheila Mannors or Sheila Bromley. (The actress used both these names in her career). Although this film is neither as fast-paced nor as interesting as Whistlin' Dan, it does hold the viewer's attention. It has an unusual, downbeat mood as well as touches of comedy, yet presents enough rugged action to satisfy the most ardent western fans. It also gives Maynard's horse, "Tarzan", a chance to do some amazing tricks. Maynard himself, however, often affects a rather puzzled air, as if he was not quite sure how to interpret the character. Even his stance often lacks his usual impression of confidence. He often seems puzzled and unsure. Fortunately, this is all in character here, but it's still rather unusual and may put off some fans who are used to a far more confident and dashing Maynard hero. Available on a quite good Grapevine DVD coupled with Maynard's The Lone Avenger.