Wild Bill Hickok Rides

I originally saw this film on TCM many years ago and just recently rewatched it, again on that same network. It's as fun and fast-paced as I remembered.

I'm a big fan of Constance Bennett and I try to see as many of her films as possible. This film stands out in her catalog as a rarity because its a western.

By the early '40s her stardom was beginning to wane and she took parts where she could find them. Although it's an atypical film and part for her, she's quite good as the owner of a gambling hall. She even sings a tune to entertain her customers!

But I couldn't help thinking that this part could've been played more effectively by the likes of Marlene Dietrich. In fact, she was perfect for these types of roles. Think Destry Rides Again, as a prime example.

If this had been an 'A' picture, Warner Brothers might have persuaded Dietrich to star in this one alongside Errol Flynn. Now that would've been a fun film to see.

I still urge you to check this out, regardless of it's lack of bigtime stars. Bennett, Bruce Cabot, Warren Williams and Ward Bond still put on a good show.