Movie spotlight
Gun Cargo
A Maritime Board of Inquiry investigates the loss of the merchant ship, the Black Rover . Its captain, Jim Parker, offers the following testimony on his own behalf: Jim is recommended by Fred Winthrop to his father, owner of the Winthrop Shipping Line, to command the Black Rover after its captain and crew refuse to make the voyage. Jim, who has just received his captain's papers, agrees, unaware that Winthrop is illegally running a cargo of contraband weapons. The film has never had a theatrical release. Production began in 1930 under the title "Contraband," stopped when the producers ran out of money, then began again under the title "Contraband Cargo." Production soon stopped again and was not resumed until 1939, when new footage was shot and footage from HELL HARBOR (1930) was edited in. The film was still deemed not suitable for theatrical distribution, and it was not until 1949 that it was finally released... for late night airing on television.
Insights
Plot Summary
A former Civil War captain, now a rancher, finds himself entangled with outlaws and a stolen shipment of rifles. He must clear his name and recover the weapons before they fall into the wrong hands. The story unfolds with elements of betrayal, action, and a fight for justice in the rugged West.
Critical Reception
Gun Cargo is a fairly standard B-Western from the era, praised for its straightforward action and competent performances, particularly from its lead. While not a groundbreaking film, it delivers a satisfying Western narrative that appealed to its target audience.
What Reviewers Say
Competent direction and solid performances elevate the familiar Western plot.
Delivers expected shootouts and adventure typical of 1940s B-Westerns.
A serviceable entry in the genre that holds viewer interest.
Google audience: Audience reception information for this film is not widely available through Google reviews.
Fun Fact
The film was produced by Sigmund Neufeld, known for his prolific work in low-budget Westerns and B-movies during the 1930s and 1940s.
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