Left-Handed Law

Left-Handed Law is a seminal 1937 Western drama film directed by the Monumental Lesley Selander. The film stars Buck Jones, Noel Francis, and Matty Fain in pivotal roles. The narrative unfolds in a classic western setting, replete with its quintessential rustic charm, rough landscapes, brawny cowboys, morality struggles, and lawless adventure.

Left-Handed Law opens up in the unconventional setup of the old west, where laws are mostly ornamentation and righteousness is typically found at the barrel of a gun. In the midst of this untamed world exudes the charisma and machismo of Buck Jones, who essays the role of a rugged yet righteous cowboy, raising regularly against the lawlessness that runs rampant around him. Jones, with his signature interaction of muscle and morality, offers a captivating rendition of an underdog hero whose heart rests solidly in the right place.

The film is infused with a gritty charm of its own, heightened only by the suitably stark set design and photography, putting forth a callous, yet visually stunning portrayal of the lawless Wild West. The plot primarily revolves around Jones' character navigating his way through this wild world, grappling with unpredictable circumstances, and rising against powerful forces.

Noel Francis stands out strong in her role as a western belle, masterfully weaving together vulnerability, grit, and charm. Twisting the stereotypical portrayal of women in western films, she creates an impactful silhouette of a strong woman adept at dealing with the harsh realities of life. She personifies an alluring amalgamation of strength and femininity that rends through the cinematic fabric with ease, making her a character to remember.

Matty Fain, known for his villainous roles, fits seamlessly into the rugged, lawless world of Left-Handed Law. He imbues the film with a thrilling undercurrent of danger, and his ominous on-screen presence only serves to heighten the sense of impending doom, contributing to the overall dramatic tension of the story.

Left-Handed Law masterfully explores and deconstructs the characteristic genres of its time, spinning a compelling tale of adventure and morality. It adeptly uses the traits of the western genre to create a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. It broaches the concept of justice in a world where lawlessness goes unchecked, a theme uncharacteristically profound for the period it was made in.

Director Lesley Selander's statement with Left-Handed Law is memorable, enhancing the core quality of the film, drawing viewers into the heart of the story, and leaving a lasting impression. The film boats some truly remarkable technical and artistic aspects, like the effective use of lighting, emotive cinematography, and an evocative score, which add another layer of authenticity and aesthetic appeal to the film.

Joining these leading performers is a fantastic supporting cast, each actor lending weight and authenticity to their characters, thereby making the world of Left-Handed Law feel real and lived-in. Each character has a part to play in the broader narrative, contributing to the captivating interplay of honor, loyalty, and justice.

The screenplay by John Rathmell and Daniel Jarrett is razor-sharp, filled with poignant dialogues that never fail to shed light on the characters' motivations and moral compasses. The pace of the film is sure-footed, carefully balancing contemplative moments with adrenaline-pumping action sequences.

In conclusion, Left-Handed Law stands as an intriguing piece of cinema that upholds the essence of a classic western film while subtly embracing a philosophical exploration of morality and law. Buck Jones' impeccable portrayal of the stoic yet dynamic cowboy, Noel Francis' graceful yet gutsy damsel, and Matty Fain's menacing antagonist come together to paint a vivid picture of a time when lawlessness was the rule, and justice was a rare commodity. A must-watch for fans of classic Westerns, it resonates with a raw and timeless charm even now.