Geknechtet

Wikipedia tells me B movie production champs Pine-Thomas known as "the Dollar Bills" committed to a rising production budget in the late 40s from 200-300k to 750k-1mil and it is evident in the oppulent costumes, quality props and plethora of extras in this well shot tense post bellum drama ably directed by seasoned old hand Ed Ludwig.

Bit of a Scarlet Pimpernel feel as Pine-Thomas stable hot property John Payne takes a beating as he outwits an excellently ruthless Lyle Bettger who is superb in this film as the wicked opportunist traitor of the South. Colleen Gray's indefatigably loyal Southern Belle is quite the contrast to Jan Sterling's terse white trash harlot who has risen way above her station.

More than a hint of apologist claptrap does not sway the story too far away from the commonplace post war corruption, coming to terms with era ending loss, retribution, reconciliation and the strength of the Union as the pathway foward narrative. A familiar theme in many of Payne and Ludwig's western projects such as the Restless Gun TV series.

Strong production values, vibrant Technicolor, solid story and good acting with a stellar performance from arguably the baddest baddie in the west Lyle Bettger in one of his greatest performances earn this time capsule an easy 6 stars.