Turning now to five technically superlative DVDs in the Image Autry collection.
In order, I have Under Fiesta Stars (1941), Bells of Capistrano (1942), Sioux City Sue (1946), Robin Hood of Texas (1947) and The Big Sombrero (1949).
Although Gene Autry himself has absolutely nothing to say about "Under Fiesta Stars" in his autobiography, this is the movie that introduced talented Joe Strauch, Jr, as Frog's younger brother. True, Joe certainly takes a lot of attention away from Gene - but not from Smiley Burnette whose Frog Millhouse plays well with young Tadpole.
The heroine is the lovely Carol Hughes (who receives nice backing from Pauline Drake), while Frank Darien is in his element as an old legal eagle with plenty of savvy and advice.
There's enough action from Gene's doubles to satisfy the fans, and Gene himself gets to sing the title number (which he wrote in collaboration with Fred Rose) and his "Purple Sage in the Twilight" (written with Sol Meyer and Jule Styne).
Director Frank McDonald handles both thrills and comedy with style.
In order, I have Under Fiesta Stars (1941), Bells of Capistrano (1942), Sioux City Sue (1946), Robin Hood of Texas (1947) and The Big Sombrero (1949).
Although Gene Autry himself has absolutely nothing to say about "Under Fiesta Stars" in his autobiography, this is the movie that introduced talented Joe Strauch, Jr, as Frog's younger brother. True, Joe certainly takes a lot of attention away from Gene - but not from Smiley Burnette whose Frog Millhouse plays well with young Tadpole.
The heroine is the lovely Carol Hughes (who receives nice backing from Pauline Drake), while Frank Darien is in his element as an old legal eagle with plenty of savvy and advice.
There's enough action from Gene's doubles to satisfy the fans, and Gene himself gets to sing the title number (which he wrote in collaboration with Fred Rose) and his "Purple Sage in the Twilight" (written with Sol Meyer and Jule Styne).
Director Frank McDonald handles both thrills and comedy with style.