Trail to Laredo
Filmed at the Providencia Ranch (today's Forrest Lawn in Burbank, CA), this typical "Durango Kid" Western featured the Cass County Boys performing "Go West Young Lady" by Sammy Cahn and Saul Chaplin, in addition to series regular Smiley Burnette singing his own "It's My Turn" and "The Yodeler. This time, the Durango Kid (Charles Starrett) is chasing down a gang of outlaws shipping stolen gold in crates marked "ring bolts," ably assisted by Smiley, a treasury agent working undercover as a house painter. Virginia Maxey supplies female interest and little Tommy Ivo, in one of his six appearances in the Durango Kid series, also gets in the way of the action.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young rancher, facing financial ruin due to land grabs by a ruthless baron, finds himself accused of a crime he didn't commit. He must go on the run, aided by his loyal ranch hands, to clear his name and expose the baron's scheme before his ranch is lost forever. Along the way, they encounter danger and unexpected allies.
Critical Reception
As a B-Western, 'Trail to Laredo' received modest reviews, typical for its genre at the time. It was appreciated for its straightforward plot, the reliable performances of its stars, and the inclusion of musical numbers that were popular with its target audience. Critics noted its formulaic approach but acknowledged its entertainment value for fans of Westerns.
What Reviewers Say
- Reliable Western entertainment with familiar faces.
- Enjoyed the blend of action and musical interludes.
- A standard, enjoyable entry in the Durango Kid series.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific film is not readily available.
Fun Fact
Charles Starrett, who starred as the Durango Kid in this film, often performed his own stunts and was known for his dedication to the Western genre, appearing in over 100 films.
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