Review of Montana Belle

Here's an odd one: sexy Jane Russell as western sharp-shooter Belle Starr, here competing with rivals The Dalton Gang. Movie opens with fruity bravado, but don't expect a camp-fest. Things gets surprisingly serious in the film's second-half, leading to a curiously downbeat conclusion. Very strange, and not particularly successful. Worth a look for the curio value alone. Supporting players George Brent and Forrest Tucker take turns getting out of Jane's way; Russell poses, pouts and scowls as Belle, her high-point coming in a crowded saloon where she warbles "The Gilded Lily". ** from ****