SYNOPSIS: A stagecoach operator plans to rob a relay station of its gold. NOTES: Locations in the Mojave Desert.
COMMENT: While not quite up to their usual actionful, briskly-paced standard, this A. C. Lyles/R. G. Springsteen western is worth seeing if only for the opportunity of renewing screen acquaintance with such a grand roster of veteran players, particularly John Russell as the criminal mastermind, Johnny Mack Brown as a self-seeking sheriff, Lon Chaney as a laughing stage driver and DeForest Kelley as a schizoid gunfighter. Arlen's part is small, but Gene Evans is delightful as Kelley's sidekick. Technically, the film shows signs of hasty shooting, particularly in its variable color photography and obvious back projection. Production values are fair — though the film was made on a very limited budget, there is no utilization of stock footage.
COMMENT: While not quite up to their usual actionful, briskly-paced standard, this A. C. Lyles/R. G. Springsteen western is worth seeing if only for the opportunity of renewing screen acquaintance with such a grand roster of veteran players, particularly John Russell as the criminal mastermind, Johnny Mack Brown as a self-seeking sheriff, Lon Chaney as a laughing stage driver and DeForest Kelley as a schizoid gunfighter. Arlen's part is small, but Gene Evans is delightful as Kelley's sidekick. Technically, the film shows signs of hasty shooting, particularly in its variable color photography and obvious back projection. Production values are fair — though the film was made on a very limited budget, there is no utilization of stock footage.