Cast
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Roy Rogers
as Steve Blane
George 'Gabby' Hayes
as Arapaho Brown
Joan Woodbury
as Della Casey / Dolores Casino
J. Farrell MacDonald
as Tim Casey
Sally Payne
as 'Squeak' Brown
George Rosener
as Sam Drummond
William Haade
as Henchman Davidge
Hal Taliaferro
as Henchman Pete
Jack Kirk
as Henchman Rufe
Chuck Baldra
as Square-Dance Caller
William Benedict
as Train Vendor
Bob Burns
as Settler Dancer
Fred Burns
as Rancher Pa Whipple
Bob Card
as 1st Violin Player
Tommy Coats
as Townsman
Crew
Director
- Joseph Kane
Producer
- Joseph Kane
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Adventure/Action/Western film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, In Old Cheyenne distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
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 1941, 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 In Old Cheyenne took approximately 26 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 58 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 87 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1941, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While In Old Cheyenne shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Along the Navajo Trail, which focuses more on action than character development, In Old Cheyenne subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Little Big Man and Frontier Pony Express explore similar territory, In Old Cheyenne stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: April 4, 1941
- Runtime: 58m
Where to Watch
