Purple Vigilantes

Purple Vigilantes is a thrilling American Western film released in 1938, featuring established actors of the era, Robert Livingston, Ray Corrigan, and Max Terhune. With an exciting blend of action, adventure and dramatic elements, it showcases the genre's classic elements while exploring themes of justice, morality, and camaraderie. The undercurrents of mystery and suspense that run through the film add to the overall intrigue of the plot.

In this Western flick, Robert Livingston, Ray Corrigan, and Max Terhune play the lead characters who are known as The Three Mesquiteers. These three characters are based on a popular series of Western novels written by author William Colt MacDonald. In Purple Vigilantes, they are portrayed as upright ranchers who also take on the noble task of maintaining law and order in their vicinity. Their camaraderie, resourcefulness, and bravery lend an engaging dynamic to the film's plot and contribute to its overall appeal to fans of action and adventure.

Robert Livingston is Stony Brooke, the dashing lead Mesquiteer who combines charm with grit, while Ray Corrigan plays the strong and stoic Tucson Smith. The comical relief in the rough and tumble world of the West is provided by Max Terhune's character, Lullaby Joslin, who shares a unique on-screen bond with his ventriloquist dummy, Elmer. These distinct characters clash and collaborate, adding different dimensions to their on-screen journey.

The title Purple Vigilantes refers to a mysterious and seemingly threatening group that has emerged in the community. The film starts with an election taking place in the town, which is soon disrupted by this group. As the story unfolds, the true nature of the Purple Vigilantes is revealed, and the Three Mesquiteers find themselves entangled in a mission to unearth the truth and restore justice.

This film showcases a Wild West where lawlessness is prevalent, and justice is elusive. As the Purple Vigilantes wreak havoc, confusion ensues among the townsfolk about whether this group represents good or evil. The mystery deepens as activities of vigilantes influence the political landscape of the area and pose a threat to innocent lives.

The main characters, played by Livingston, Corrigan, and Terhune, display a fantastic sense of duty, grit, and determination in tackling the challenges thrown their way. As the heroes, they are bound by their commitment to protect the innocent and fight against the evils that threaten their peaceful existence.

The film's direction and fast-paced storytelling keep the viewers engaged, unfolding the plot in an array of captivating scenes. Acclaimed director George Sherman masterfully crafts suspense and action sequences that keep audiences on the edge of their seats while driving the narrative forward. The use of costumes, elements of the Wild West setting, and attention to detail also contribute to the 1938 movie's authenticity, transporting viewers to this unique time in American history.

Photography by Ernest Miller and William Nobles adds to the immersive experience, capturing the rugged wilderness of the frontier landscape and the intensity of the action sequences. The dramatic score by Alberto Colombo further enhances the film's overall atmospheric tension and pathos.

Distinguished by its blend of adventure, drama, suspense, and resolute characters, Purple Vigilantes remains a fantastic example of 1930s Western cinema. Guided by strong performances from Robert Livingston, Ray Corrigan, and Max Terhune, the film is an enduring testament to the genre's storytelling power. Engaging and dramatic, the film balances classic Western tropes with a thoughtful exploration of morality, justice, and friendship, making it a must-watch for fans of classic American cinema.