Cast
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Crew
Director
- David Howard
Producer
- Sol M. Wurtzel
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This Mystery/Western/Horror film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. Mystery Ranch presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.
Director David Howard 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 1932, 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 Mystery Ranch took approximately 3 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 56 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 93 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 466 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The musical score contains over 60 unique compositions.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1932, 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
Details
- Release Date: June 7, 1932
- Runtime: 56m