Tar with a Star
Tar with a Star

Movie spotlight

Tar with a Star

1949
Movie
7 min
English

Gunfights are diminishing the population (1864- for the time being) in the tough Western town of Cactus Corners.

Insights

IMDb6.2/10
Director: Norman FosterGenres: Drama, Western

Plot Summary

A struggling rancher faces financial ruin and personal challenges when his cattle are plagued by disease. He finds himself in a moral quandary as he tries to save his ranch and protect his family from mounting debts and desperate measures. The film explores themes of perseverance, sacrifice, and the harsh realities of frontier life.

Critical Reception

While "Tar with a Star" (also known as "The Fighting Kentuckian") received a mixed reception upon its release, it is often cited for its performances, particularly by John Wayne, and its depiction of the Western landscape. Critics at the time noted its conventional plot but appreciated its earnest portrayal of the era's struggles.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for John Wayne's strong lead performance.

  • Appreciated for its authentic Western setting and atmosphere.

  • Criticized for a somewhat predictable and formulaic storyline.

Google audience: Audience reception for "Tar with a Star" is not readily available through typical Google review aggregations, making it difficult to summarize specific likes or dislikes.

Fun Fact

Although commonly referred to by its more dramatic title, "Tar with a Star", the film was originally released as "The Fighting Kentuckian".

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