Movie spotlight
Broncho Billy's Scheme
Colonel Emmett's daughter is captured by an outlaw who blindfolds her just before taking her to his hut, so, in case she escaped, she would be unable to lead anybody to his rendezvous. She is told by one of his accomplices that he intends forcing her into marriage, so she feigns illness. While the outlaw goes for a doctor, she writes a note saying that she is not ill, and is being held for ransom. The outlaw arrives with Broncho Billy, the doctor, whom he has also blindfolded. The girl slips him the note and he pretends to be attending her. Before being blindfolded again for the return journey he fills his pocket with white pills, which he drops at intervals, marking the trail.
Insights
Plot Summary
Broncho Billy, a notorious outlaw, devises a cunning scheme to rob a train. However, his plan takes an unexpected turn when he encounters a young woman and her father, leading to a series of humorous and chaotic events. Billy must navigate the complications of his own plan while dealing with the unexpected interference.
Critical Reception
As a silent short film from 1914, contemporary critical reception is difficult to pinpoint with modern metrics. However, "Broncho Billy's Scheme" was part of the highly popular "Broncho Billy" series, known for its blend of Western action and lighthearted comedy. The series was successful with audiences of its time, establishing Gilbert M. 'Broncho Billy' Anderson as a significant early film star.
What Reviewers Say
Appreciated for its early comedic Western elements.
Seen as a typical, lighthearted installment in the popular 'Broncho Billy' series.
Demonstrates Anderson's established screen persona.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific 1914 short film is not available.
Fun Fact
Gilbert M. 'Broncho Billy' Anderson was one of the first Western film stars and pioneers of the genre, even co-founding Essanay Studios.
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