Drift Fence

Set in the wild landscapes of the American West during the late 19th century, Drift Fence is a captivating western drama film, released in 1936 and directed by Otho Lovering. Ensuing the tradition of vintage Westerns, this movie centers on the themes of lawlessness, ranch rivalry, heroism, friendship, and love. Starring Buster Crabbe, Katherine DeMille, and Tom Keene, Drift Fence brings to life Zane Grey’s novel in a riveting and action-packed manner, capturing the unforgiving yet compelling aspects of the Old West.

Buster Crabbe leads the cast as cowboy Jim Traft, who inherited a large ranch in the West. Unfamiliar with the ways of the frontier, Traft leaves the safe confines of the East and faces off with a band of cattle rustlers to establish his new life in the West. Crabbe brings a sense of sincerity and sympathy to the character, which was lauded by the audience. He effectively embarks on the transformation from being an underdog to becoming the stalwart keeper of the law, representing the typical protagonist of Westerns, who rises to the challenge when the situation demands.

Katherine DeMille embodies the character of Molly Dunn, enhancing the drama with her love triangle. She plays the role of a feisty and independent woman who finds herself in a romantic tangle with Jim Traft and another cowboy, Lee. DeMille’s portrayal of Molly Dunn captures the strength and resilience of women in the challenging frontier life, further enriching the narrative. Despite being a primarily male-centric genre, Drift Fence acknowledges the important role that women play in shaping the frontier narrative.

In a commendable performance, Tom Keene plays the role of Traft’s loyal yet secretive ranch foreman, Slinger Dunn, who has a distinct past of his own. Keene's role adds another layer of complexity to the plot. He does a terrific job at maintaining a balance between his loyalty to Traft and the secrets he tries to hide.

The title, Drift Fence, refers to the barbed wire fences constructed across the West by ranch owners to keep their herds confined and to prevent rustling. This not just becomes the point of contention and cause of the main conflict, but it also symbolically represents the struggle of law and order against chaos in the wild West.

The film is packed with gunfights, horse chases, and classic cowboy showdowns, making it action-heavy. Yet, it never loses sight of its plot and blends the action seamlessly with the narrative progression. The depiction of the drifting cattle over the fence giving the film its title provides an atmospheric touch to the overall narrative.

Under the direction of Otho Lovering, Drift Fence beautifully juxtaposes the rough and rugged lifestyle of the West with the serene and picturesque landscapes. The film may not have an overabundance of 'A' list stars in its cast, but the relatively unknown actors at the time lend a freshness to the worn-out Western cliches. The spectacular camera work brings forth the breathtaking scenery of the American West and succeeds in capturing the relentless and raw nature of a cowboy's life.

The movie also features moral and ethical dilemmas, showcasing the gritty realities of life on the frontier, where survival often called for making hard choices. The narrative intertwines these elements with the concepts of justice, loyalty, and friendship, amping the emotional depth of the story.

In summary, Drift Fence is a film that keeps alive the quintessential feel of classic Westerns, while also adding its unique charm. Its engaging storyline, backed by commendable performances from Buster Crabbe, Katherine DeMille, and Tom Keene, make it a must-watch for fans of the genre. Drift Fence masterfully depicts the spirit of survival, the quest for justice, and the human instincts of love and friendship amidst the harsh realities of life in the untamed West of the late 1800s. It's a film that captures the essence of the American frontier with authentic charm and enduring storytelling.