Bar 20 Rides Again

Bar 20 Rides Again is a classic Western film that came out in 1935. Directed by Howard Bretherton, the film boasts a talented cast led by William Boyd, James Ellison, Jean Rouverol, and it invites viewers into the vigorous world of a timeless period, ostentatiously combining elements of action, adventure, and romance.

The film highlights the exploits of the Bar 20 cowboys, a gang of hard-riding, sharp-shooting, and law-abiding wranglers. William Boyd plays the role of the charismatic Hopalong Cassidy, the leading man of the Bar 20 ranch. Boyd’s portrayal of Hopalong represents the epitome of the Golden Age cowboy hero- equally handy with a witticism as with a six-shooter, just in the right blend of a rugged exterior with a heart of gold. He is a linchpin of morality and justice in the chaotic Western frontier, often finds himself the reluctant hero pulling his fellow ranchers out of trouble.

James Ellison endows the character of Johnny Nelson, Hopalong’s young and ever-eager sidekick, with an undeniable charm. Johnny’s character, often portrayed with boyish enthusiasm, provides a counter-balance to Hopalong's seasoned skills. The chemistry between Boyd and Ellison lights up the screen, creating a dynamic duo whose camaraderie and shared jests add a touch of humor to the intermittently tense plot.

At the heart of the story is a fierce conflict that brews between the Bar 20 ranch and a rival rancher who uses a corrupt sheriff to infringe upon their business. The confrontation between both parties injects an abundance of action in the film, most notably thrilling gunfights, harrowing chases, and quite a few saloon brawls in true Western fashion. The lofty stakes and escalating tension keep the viewers hooked till the end while the Bar 20 cowboys struggle to maintain peace and justice in their corner of the Old West.

To add a dose of romance to the plot, Jean Rouverol is introduced as the love interest and represents a refreshing and strong female presence in a predominantly male-driven narrative. As a beautiful rancher's daughter, her character forms a key link in the deepening hostility between the two rival groups. Rouverol does an excellent job of embodying a strong, independent woman, making her character much more than just a traditional damsel in distress.

Although a standard formulae Western in many aspects, Bar 20 Rides Again stands out for its encapsulation of rugged landscapes and evocative cinematography that reflects the arduous and primal nature of frontier life, and the often solitary heroes that characterized it. The production design, by Lewis J. Rachmil, brings the wild western ambiance to life with its saloons, open plains, and horse-drawn carriages.

Moreover, the direction is crisp and the screenplay by Doris Schroeder and Harrison Jacobs lifts the film above many of its contemporaries with its brilliant dialogue and subtleties within the characters. The musical scores keep the story lively and engaging, while the costumes and props add credibility to the beautiful canvas where the narrative unfolds.

On the whole, Bar 20 Rides Again is a highly enjoyable classic Western film that showcases the thrilling adventures of the 'good guys' as they ride the line of justice against all odds. The film is not just a memorable depiction of a bygone era, but it also offers plenty of action, a dash of romance, some great one-liners, and a sense of camaraderie that leaves you captivated, making it an essential viewing for fans of the genre. It embodies an idealized slice of American heritage, and its success led to a series of follow-up films starring William Boyd, further cementing his status as an iconic Western star.