Enjoyable Western that even non-Wayne fans should find entertaining. Film blends equal parts mystery, bravado, romance, and humor in fairly smooth fashion. Mystery plot comes from actor-writer Paul Fix, comic relief from incomparable Gabby Hayes, while convincing bravado is supplied by you-know-who. Still and all, this is a Gabby Hayes showcase, and I would think a high point of his career ( he had just left the Hopalong series). In fact, the first ten minutes are among the funniest and most satisfying of any Western on record: the chemistry between Hayes and Wayne is simply terrific and easily tops that between Wayne and his two leading ladies. This is a fine "buddy" picture, even if the participants are wildly unequal in age and skills. My one complaint -- special effects and art direction. Scenic shots from Sedona, AZ, simply do not blend well with pedestrian shots from the San Fernando Valley, while shoddy process photography and occasional cheapjack sets also mar final result. Apparently Wayne still did not command a class A budget. Too bad. Still and all, fans of the Duke and those of all tastes could do a lot worse.
Review of Tall in the Saddle
