For all the great films that have seen the light of day in the past ninety-five years or so, sometimes it's hard not to think that cinema lost something with the advent of talkies. From straightforward adventure to timeless dramas, from inescapably charming comedies to grand epics, there's an earnest simplicity to silent movies that got subsumed with the sound revolution and ever-advancing film-making technology. I can understand why, for various reasons, older titles don't appeal to all modern viewers, yet as 'Black Cyclone' relates the story of a wild horse ruling over the plains, and the unlikely friendship he develops with a human, there's obvious kinship with countless pictures that have been made over the years about the intelligence of animals, and the bonds between animals and humans. We get twists of drama, humor, and action in turn, keeping the proceedings equally light and fresh amidst beautiful open landscapes, majestic and lovely animals, and the capable film-making of seasoned professionals. This is hardly to say that this 1925 feature is a total must-see, but it's solidly enjoyable on its own merits, and definitely worth checking out for those who appreciate the style or genre.
Truly, the thrust of this classic will be well familiar to anyone who has ever watched something (animated, sure, but especially live-action) that centered animals as protagonists. And the story is fairly simply, all told. Yet the film is shaped with expertise and care to ensure audiences have a good time, and even for as relatively unsophisticated as techniques generally were in the 1920s, nonetheless the cinematography, editing, and direction are admirable in shaping the whole. Special commendations are to be afforded for the superb animal handling and stunts, for with fare like this that's truly where the core lies; still, in every regard 'Black Cyclone' is quite well done, including sets, costume design, and those effects that are employed. And between Fred Jackman's direction and the strong scene writing, each discrete sequence is arguably more important than the overall saga in keeping us engaged and making the viewing experience as fun as it is. Whatever the flavor of a particular moment may be it's realized with a vitality that's welcome and endearing, and that the tale at large wraps it all together so well just cements the satisfaction and reward of watching.
One hour goes by quickly, speaking as much to the quality of the movie as to its brevity. The human cast gives excellent performances - Guinn Williams especially, as hero Jim Lawson - even if they're second fiddle to star Rex, "The King of Wild Horses," and his fellow equines. In fairness, there's nothing about this picture that's singularly striking, and save perhaps for the prominence of Rex it won't necessarily stand out from other contemporary westerns. Then again, nor are there any specific weaknesses to speak of; even noting the obvious artificiality of one action sequence in particular, I have no abject criticisms to offer. 'Black Cyclone' is no revelation, but it's well-rounded and balanced, gratifyingly well made, and splendidly entertaining all the while. As a matter of personal preference it won't find favor with all comers, but those who are receptive to the unsung treasures of the silent era will find much to love. It may not wholly demand viewership, but if you have the opportunity to watch 'Black Cyclone,' this is one hour well spent.
