Antro da Perdição

OK, it's probably not a good idea to try to remake a classic as with this film and George Marshall's "Destry Rides Again".............but don't sell it too short. Max Brand's sentimental potboiler has seen many versions from Tom Mix's (1922) through a failed TV series in the 60's but this Audie Murphy attempt could be worse. Murphy who confessed that he couldn't act surely gave it a try during his career and was particularly good in "A" productions such as "The Unforgiven". He was attractive enough and rather appealing.....hell, he probably was a better actor than Roy Rogers. This film provides a showcase for his genial screen personality and Mari Blanchard, that queen of the "B" films, does her usual great job in the Marlene Dietrich role. The supporting cast is a dandy with such stalwarts as Thomas Mitchell, Lyle Bettger and Edgar Buchanan. Obviously, this film is not in the same league with James Stewart version but it works for what it is......a 1950's programmer which offers some hidden delights. Give it a try.