In Jeremy Arnold’s book Christmas in the Movies: 30
Classics to Celebrate the Season (Turner Classic Movies) the classic
cinema historian selected this Republic Western in the must-see roster.
It is a tale of white hats and black hats and
Christmas tree wranglers.
We have Roy Rogers and Trigger starring as well as
additional cowboy stars [all playing themselves] Rex Allen, Allan Lane, Monte
Hale, William Farnum, Tom Tyler, Ray Corrigan, Kermit Maynard, Tom Keene and
Jack Holt.
The story is slight, the plot and staging are aimed towards
the youth market, but I wager if one grew up with this fare that this is a pleasant
blast of nostalgia.
Not having grown up with Rogers and his ilk, it all comes
across a little square to me but I did enjoy the pacing.
Director William Whitney, one of Tarantino’s favorites,
keeps all moving briskly.
So, as a Western fan who had to pause often to ask, “Now
who is that guy?” I still enjoyed myself.
One familiar with all the names mentioned, well, you
likely are in for a treat.
Merry Christmas All!
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