Enemy of the Law

Enemy of the Law is a lively, action-packed Western from 1945, starring the talented trio of Tex Ritter, Dave O'Brien and Guy Wilkerson. The film was produced during the heyday of Western movies in Hollywood and is representative of the genre's stylized storytelling, filled with outlaws, lawmen, and tales of justice.

Ritter takes center stage in the film, playing Texas Ranger Tex Haines - a character he'd previously brought to the silver screen several times. Haines is an honorable man with a keen sense of justice, known for his straight-shooting, both literally and figuratively. Off-screen, Ritter was a popular singing cowboy and his music is woven throughout the film, almost serving as an additional character. His warm baritone and lyrical storytelling add a layer of richness to the narrative.

O'Brien and Wilkerson play Tex's sidekicks, Dave Wyatt and Panhandle Perkins, respectively. Both men provide ample support to Ritter's character and the three have an easy camaraderie on screen. O'Brien's character is the more serious of the two, a perfect counterpoint to Wilkerson's Panhandle, who provides the film with some necessary comic relief. Their characters deepen the narrative, adding elements of friendship and teamwork one often finds in iconic Westerns.

Set in Texas in the 19th century, the plot of Enemy of the Law revolves around a stash of gold that turns up missing. It's up to the trio of Texas Rangers to recover the gold and bring the criminals to justice. Hijinks ensue as the Rangers navigate the dusty roads of the Wild West, filled with thrilling chases on horseback, intense shootouts, and quintessential Western showdowns. The film does an excellent job of interweaving the action sequences with quieter moments, allowing the story to develop and characters to shine.

Although not a lavish production, Enemy of the Law is steeped in authenticity, from the period-accurate costuming and props to the realistically gritty, arid landscapes. Even the town's saloon looks like something straight out of the old West, complete with swinging doors and rugged patrons. Cinematically, the film captures the vastness and raw beauty of the Texan landscape and the fierce, unforgiving nature that typifies the mythos of the American frontier.

The movie's director, Harry L. Fraser, who is known for his work within the Western genre, does a commendable job of driving the plot forward, maintaining a brisk pace throughout. The script, while favoring action over dialogue, doesn’t shy away from humor and subtly reminds audiences about the tough moral choices and sacrifices faced by those in pursuit of justice. Fraser successfully exploits the charisma and screen presence of the lead actors, ensuring their performances resonate and delight the viewers.

In overall, while Enemy of the Law may not diverge significantly from the tried-and-tested Western formula, it is executed with such gusto and sheer enjoyment that it doesn't detract from the viewing experience. The film is a nostalgic picture postcard from an era where good and evil were clearly defined, heroes wore white hats, and justice was served with a quick draw of the gun.

For fans of classic Western cinema, Enemy of the Law is an engaging and entertaining journey into the past. Its unique blend of action, humor and cowboy camaraderie, rendered in 1940s cinematic style, make it a must-see. Whether you enjoy Tex Ritter's music, old school Western hijinks, or simply a good tale of lawmen and outlaws, this film promises to provide a captivating and enjoyable viewing experience.