Intcatinfo A Masterpiece!

ThedevilChoose When a movie has you begging for it to end not even half way through it's pure crap. We've all seen this movie and this characters millions of times, nothing new in it. Don't waste your time.

Fairaher The film makes a home in your brain and the only cure is to see it again.

Candida It is neither dumb nor smart enough to be fun, and spends way too much time with its boring human characters.

JohnHowardReid Producer: Robert Fellows. Copyright 6 October 1944 by RKO Radio Pictures, Inc. New York opening at the Palace: 14 December 1944. U.S. release: 29 September 1944. U.K. release: 7 May 1945. Australian release: 12 April 1945. 8,000 feet. 89 minutes.NOTES: Wayne's fist association with producer Robert Fellows with whom he was later to form Wayne-Fellows Productions. Wayne liked the script of this one (co-written by actor Paul Fix) so much he tried to persuade John Ford to direct. Although Ford declined, some members of the Ford stock company, notably Ward Bond and Russell Simpson, were signed on for the cast.COMMENT: One of Wayne's best westerns, with plenty of vigorously staged action, an intriguing plot, lots of interesting characters, loads of atmosphere, and an agreeably honed characterization for the Duke himself. It's tempting to say what a pity Ford knocked back this assignment, but Marin has actually done quite a super job. Of course he was helped no end by experts like Theron Warth (a graduate of RKO's film editing department, making his debut here as associate producer) and cinematographer Robert de Grasse.It's good to see Wayne re-united with some of the players from his early 30s career, most notably ultra-smooth villain Ward Bond, rough-house heavy Harry Woods, cowardly off-sider Paul Fix, helpful barkeep Cy Kendall and most particularly George Hayes, a real audience-pleaser here in a made-to-order role as a cantankerous, woman-hating stagedriver. (Wayne is also introduced as something of a cynical misogynist. "I never feel sorry for anything that happens to a woman," he answers an early leading question from Hayes, to that driver's surprise and evident delight. But his attitude noticeably softens later on in the presence of both ultra-feminine heroine Audrey Long and more masculine Ella Raines).Elisabeth Risdon's remarkably forceful performance as Miss Martin deserves special praise. We also liked Emory Parnell's blustering sheriff and Walter Baldwin's slovenly coach-stop man. In fact, all the characters are most skilfully played. Although Wayne rightly dominates the action, at more than one stage there are so many interesting characters jostling around in the background, they threaten to spill off the screen.Production values are A-1. In short, a first-class western.OTHER VIEWS: Exciting, fast-paced western, with a brilliant opening sequence, a delightfully aggressive heroine, fine photography, and a script that is as rich in characterization as in action and originality. Wayne has one of his best roles as the charmingly gutsy if somewhat cynical hero.

PamelaShort Tall In The Saddle is considered a grade B western for John Wayne, only because it falls short of the John Ford directed masterpiece, Stagecoach. While it is a typical oater, it is still a very interesting story, in its portrayal of women and their effect on the tough and rugged Wayne. Ella Raines is the star in this film, as she whips Wayne into shape, resulting in having the hardened misogynistic character, softening and learning to respect women as people. Ella Raines performance in this film is meritorious and she proves, in this her fifth film, how versatile an actress she is. Her portrayal of the feisty Arleta is played with a perfect blend of sharpness and toughness needed to tackle the callous Wayne character. Tagging along faithfully, is the lovable Gabby Hayes, who always adds the right amount of comic relief, as he plays the most cantankerous old coot in this film. Elizabeth Risdon is outstanding playing the strict crabby guardian of her sweet niece, played by Audrey Long. Ward Bond is always a strong, fine fixture in Waynes movies. This film turns into a real gem because it is so well executed by all the actors, add some really fine cinematography, first-rate directing, and you have a very enjoyable John Wayne movie. It should also be noted that John Wayne liked the script which was co-written by Paul Fix, a friend of Waynes, and a supporting player in many of his films, including this one. Tall In The Saddle, grossed an impressive hefty $4million in 1944. I have watched this western movie many times, and it never fails to satisfy.

MARIO GAUCI This one got shown on late-night Italian TV unheralded, after a proposed screening of Allan Dwan’s THE RIVER’S EDGE (1957) got barred by Fox! I’ve watched a few of John Wayne’s vehicles made between STAGECOACH (1939) and FORT APACHE (1948): while he was officially a star during this period, he wasn’t yet the screen legend everyone remembers and loves – consequently, most of the films he made in the interim tend to be overlooked. This is one of them and, I have to say, quite an underrated effort it is too! Made at RKO, it features their customary shadowy lighting – and, while essentially modest in approach, the narrative is absolutely brimming with action, twists, romance (Wayne gets to choose between two gals) and even comedy (provided by The Duke’s frequent sidekick from his early years, George “Gabby” Hayes). Wayne is obviously in his element and, typically, his character has to go through a lot to fight for his rights (while he’s introduced as a ranch-hand, it transpires that he’s actually the heir to the property!), his own well-being (he’s not only provoked into several brawls or made the target of assassination, but is even framed for murder!) and, of course, true love (one girl is assertive and tempestuous, the other genteel and naive).Ella Raines, best-known for her noir roles, looks great in cowboy gear as the former; when it seems she may lose Wayne to the latter – played by Audrey Long – it’s revealed that Wayne and Long’s characters are blood-related, thus conveniently solving the star’s emotional dilemma! The supporting cast includes Ward Bond (as the judge who tries to deceive both Wayne and Long out of their inheritance, he eventually engages in a violent fist-fight with Wayne which virtually turns his office into a shambles), Elizabeth Risdon (an insufferable and scheming old lady who’s domineering of charge Long and contemptuous of both Wayne and Hayes), Russell Wade (the young second lead of THE BODY SNATCHER [1945] appearing as Raines’ gambler brother), Paul Fix (like Bond, a long-time buddy of Wayne’s who here plays the part of an antagonist) and Frank Puglia (as Raines’ devoted Indian protector which causes an ambivalence towards Wayne).Characterizations are well above-par for an ‘oater’; the end result is highly watchable and entertaining – if, ultimately, a notch below The Duke’s standards of a few years later. The film was nevertheless released on DVD by Warners as part of a 5-Disc John Wayne collection (of which I already own BLOOD ALLEY [1955], one I’ve yet to watch myself, and THE SEA CHASE [1955]) – and I wouldn’t mind adding it to my collection if the opportunity presented itself…

wes-connors John Wayne (as Rocklin) arrives to work at the "Topaz" ranch. He is accompanied by drunken driver George 'Gabby' Hayes (as Dave), and the ranch owner's distaff kin: Audrey Long (as Clara Cardell) and Elisabeth Risdon (as Elizabeth Martin). Mr. Wayne bonds with boozy Mr. Hayes; they share a chauvinistic dislike for women. Ms. Long is attracted to Wayne; but, soon, so is tomboyish rancher Ella Raines (as Arly Harolday). While the primly sensual Long and the fiery cowgirl Raines flirt unmercifully with him, Wayne must solve the murder of the freshly shot dead ranch owner..."Tall in the Saddle" is a mostly haphazard, unsatisfying western, highlighted by strong, familiar supporting performers. And, the film's women make most enjoyable viewing. Raines and blonde rival Long are great-looking; and give great looks, to both Wayne and each other. Raines's cowgirl outfit is snug and sexy. Long is primly attired, but sensual; a fact noticed by Raines as the women deliciously play a "check out the competition" scene. Veteran actress Risdon is the perfect contrast, a straight-laced old aunt. Sidekick Hayes gets to pal around (too briefly) with veteran actor Raymond Hatton (as Zeke) in some early scenes. **** Tall in the Saddle (9/29/44) Edwin L. Marin ~ John Wayne, Ella Raines, George 'Gabby' Hayes