Cast
View AllJohn Payne
as Bill Mayhew
Mona Freeman
as Elizabeth Sutton
Lee J. Cobb
as Jim Donovan
Ray Middleton
as John Sutton
Skip Homeier
as Sam Mayhew
Andy Clyde
as Whipsaw Ellis
Lee Van Cleef
as Pecos Larry
Karl 'Killer' Davis
as Hunsaker (as Karl Davis)
Glenn Strange
as Big George
Robert "Buzz" Henry
as Buzz (as Buzz Henry)
Dan White
as Man in Buckboard (as Daniel White)
Robert Burton
as Pete
Anna Lee Carroll
as Miss Honeywell (as Anne Carroll)
Tex Terry
as Henchman
Chuck Hayward
as Randy (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Joseph Kane
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
The Road to Denver represents a fascinating example of Western cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Joseph Kane brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1955, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Road to Denver took approximately 9 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 134 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The film contains approximately 917 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1955, when this film was released:
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Road to Denver shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Wild Burro of the West, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Road to Denver subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like All Hat and Montana Story explore similar territory, The Road to Denver stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: June 15, 1955
- Runtime: 1h 30m