Movie spotlight
Branded a Coward
Safely from behind some shrubbery, Johnny Hume, a boy of 6 or 7, witnesses the slaughter of his mother, father and brother by the guns of a gang led by "the Cat". Twenty years later finds Johnny grown to manhood, an expert bronc rider and target shooter - but paralyzed with fearful memories in an actual gunfight. This is brought home to him when some outlaws stick up the local saloon and Johnny ends up cowering behind the bar.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young rancher is wrongly accused of rustling cattle and of cowardice when he refuses to draw on a former friend. To clear his name and protect his family, he must confront the real culprits and prove his bravery in a dangerous showdown.
Critical Reception
This B-Western from Monogram Pictures was a typical entry in the genre for its time, offering straightforward action and a familiar narrative. While not critically lauded, it provided standard entertainment for fans of Ken Maynard and Western films of the era.
What Reviewers Say
Provides standard Western thrills with a focus on Ken Maynard's heroic persona.
Features a predictable but engaging plot typical of 1930s Westerns.
The film delivers on action sequences and a clear-cut good versus evil narrative.
Google audience: Audience reviews for this film are scarce due to its age, but typical comments for Ken Maynard Westerns praise the straightforward plots and action.
Fun Fact
Ward Bond, who plays a supporting role in this film, would go on to become a legendary actor, most famous for his starring role as the title character in the television series 'Wagon Train'.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources