The Law Commands

The Law Commands is a classic 1937 American Western film directed by William Nigh. The movie stars Tom Keene, who was a popular leading man in B-westerns of that era, along with Lorraine Randall and Robert Fiske. In this film, Keene flexes his cowboy persona by delving into a tale that intertwines justice, honor, and the fight against corruption in a small frontier town.

Tom Keene plays Dr. Robert Cromwell, a steadfast individual with a moral backbone, who becomes central to the unfolding events in the community. The film begins with Cromwell making a life-altering decision to leave his past behind and start anew in a small town where he believes he can make a difference. The character’s transition from a dedicated medical professional to a determined peacekeeper showcases his complexity and commitment to the welfare of others. Coming to the town, he is warmly received and quickly becomes a well-loved and respected figure among the local residents.

Lorraine Randall portrays the female lead, whose charm and intelligence are significant drivers in the plot and provide a strong counterpart to Keene's character. Her performance brings depth and warmth to the storyline, creating a nuanced and compelling character that audiences can relate to. Meanwhile, Robert Fiske steps into the role of the film’s antagonist, whose ruthless ambition and disregard for justice make him a formidable adversary. The tension between his character and Keene’s Dr. Cromwell provides the central conflict in the movie.

The story of The Law Commands revolves around the pressing issues of land ownership and community progress. As settlers flock to the West in the hopes of finding their fortunes, land becomes a prime commodity, and with it, the struggles and clashes inherent in settling the frontiers of America are brought to the forefront. The small town is on the brink of a development boom, with the potential of a railroad extending its line through the area. This new venture promises prosperity for the townsfolk but also attracts the attention of less scrupulous individuals looking to exploit the situation for personal gain.

Dr. Cromwell finds himself embroiled in the town's affairs when tensions rise due to disputes over land rights and the looming railroad project. He advocates for law and order, emphasizing the need for legal means to settle disputes and protect the interests of all parties involved. However, as the plot progresses, he discovers that there are powerful forces at work against him, and his calls for peaceful resolutions are met with resistance and danger.

Characters throughout the film grapple with themes of justice, loyalty, and personal integrity. The settlers and townspeople represent a cross-section of frontier society, each with their aspirations and fears, all looking towards an uncertain future as they work to carve out their own piece of the American dream. Through the narrative, the film examines the impact of change and the challenges it brings, with Dr. Cromwell serving as the moral compass trying to guide the community through the perils that accompany growth and progress.

The Law Commands showcases the classic Western genre's essential elements: horseback chases, gunfights, and standoffs, all set against the backdrop of the wide-open spaces of the rugged American landscape. The action sequences of the film are well-crafted, providing the thrilling excitement that audiences of the time would have expected from such a feature. The cinematography captures the vastness and isolation of the setting, which plays a crucial role in shaping the narrative and the characters' experiences.

While The Law Commands offers a snapshot of a bygone era, the issues it explores, such as corruption, social change, and the fight for justice, remain relevant. The movie is a testament to the human spirit’s resilience and the persistent battle between what is right and what is easy. The strong characterization, coupled with a plot that moves at a pace keeping the viewer engaged, ensures that the film delivers not just a piece of escapism typical of its genre but also a thoughtful commentary on the society it portrays.

As a product of its time, The Law Commands may embody some of the limitations and sensibilities of the 1930s, with certain storytelling patterns and characterizations reflecting the period's conventions. Nevertheless, its central themes and the universal appeal of the Western mythos make it a notable entry in the annals of the genre. For fans of classic Westerns, the film offers a mix of action, drama, and romance, all anchored by solid performances and a story that resonates with the timeless struggle between good and evil.