I've seen quite a few B-westerns during the last year--featuring many different old-time stars. The Tex Ritter films I've seen are a bit like lower budget Gene Autry or Roy Rogers films. Tex sings and fights for good just like the other two--but the films are also a bit rougher and cheaper in comparison--like a poor man's imitation of the original. I think I prefer Ritter's singing (the songs are just more fun) but his acting was a tad rough--with a delivery that seemed a bit amateurish. Now this does NOT mean I disliked the films--they just lacked the polish and standards of the Republic westerns.
When the film began, I was surprised to see that Tex had TWO sidekicks--not the usual one. And, I was even more surprised to see one billed as 'Pee Wee' Pollard--as it was actually the silent film comic, Snub Pollard. Seeing him in a western was weird as well as hearing his faint Australian accent in the American west. He and the other comic relief were actually pretty good, however--so I am not criticizing their use in the film.
The plot finds Tex investigating a so-called 'Ghost Train' that he been riding the rails of a railroad owned by a friend...a recently deceased friend. While the concept is a little bit unique (and I really prize plots in these films that are unique), the problem is that it's obvious to anyone watching the film who the baddies and the evil boss-man are--so there really isn't much of a mystery here. In addition, Ritter's character seemed like he could have used some psychotherapy or medication, as he seemed so gosh-darned mad all the time--and shouted many of his lines! Still, overall the film is worth seeing if you like the genre. Otherwise, I doubt if this will appeal much to the average viewer today.
When the film began, I was surprised to see that Tex had TWO sidekicks--not the usual one. And, I was even more surprised to see one billed as 'Pee Wee' Pollard--as it was actually the silent film comic, Snub Pollard. Seeing him in a western was weird as well as hearing his faint Australian accent in the American west. He and the other comic relief were actually pretty good, however--so I am not criticizing their use in the film.
The plot finds Tex investigating a so-called 'Ghost Train' that he been riding the rails of a railroad owned by a friend...a recently deceased friend. While the concept is a little bit unique (and I really prize plots in these films that are unique), the problem is that it's obvious to anyone watching the film who the baddies and the evil boss-man are--so there really isn't much of a mystery here. In addition, Ritter's character seemed like he could have used some psychotherapy or medication, as he seemed so gosh-darned mad all the time--and shouted many of his lines! Still, overall the film is worth seeing if you like the genre. Otherwise, I doubt if this will appeal much to the average viewer today.