Movie spotlight
The Thistle
The film is about the struggle against political and cultural backwardness in the remote corners of Ukraine in the mid-1920s. Hysyar, a witch doctor, is the most popular person in the small village of Haniivka. Gysyar fills his wallet at the expense of gullible and backward villagers, but his "healing" only cripples them with impunity. This brings him into irreconcilable conflict with Marina, a paramedic who has come to the village from the city. To get rid of his unwanted competitor, Hysyar, with the help of the nurse's sister, steals the keys to the cooperative from Marina's fiancé, and plants the stolen goods in Marina's apartment. In despair, Marina commits suicide. An investigative commission that arrives from the city uncovers Hysyar's criminal activities. The witch doctor is put on trial.
Insights
Plot Summary
A struggling rancher finds himself entangled in a web of deceit and danger when he takes on a wild stallion and a local land grabber. He must overcome his own doubts and the schemes of his enemies to protect his home and the woman he loves.
Critical Reception
As a typical Western of its era, 'The Thistle' likely received moderate praise for its action sequences and the performance of its lead, Hoot Gibson. Such films were primarily judged on their ability to deliver thrills and uphold traditional Western values, with critical analysis often being secondary to audience entertainment.
What Reviewers Say
The film delivers standard Western fare with plenty of action.
Hoot Gibson's performance is a highlight, showcasing his signature cowboy persona.
A predictable but entertaining narrative for fans of the genre.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for films from 1928 is not readily available.
Fun Fact
The film was produced by Universal Pictures, a studio that was a major force in early Western cinema, often capitalizing on the popularity of its cowboy stars like Hoot Gibson.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources