Under the Tonto Rim

Under the Tonto Rim is a 1947 American Western film directed by Lew Landers and starring Tim Holt, Nan Leslie, and Richard Martin. The movie is based on a novel of the same name by Zane Grey.

The movie opens with a brief introduction to John Randolph (Tim Holt), who is a successful mine owner and businessman, and his friend Dusty (Richard Martin), who is a cowboy. They set out to explore a new mine site in the Tonto Rim area, and while on their journey, they come across a group of women stranded in the wilderness. The women, who are headed to a nearby town to work in a dance hall, are in desperate need of help as they have been abandoned by their driver.

John and Dusty offer to help the women, and they soon find themselves embroiled in a complex web of events. They discover that the nearby town of Horseshoe is under the control of a corrupt mayor, Judge Flake (Robert Barron), who has allowed a gang of outlaws to operate freely in the area. The outlaws are led by a man named Kirby (Tom Tyler), who is determined to stop John from opening his new mine as it will threaten his illegal activities.

As the story progresses, John and Dusty must contend with both the outlaws and the corrupt officials in Horseshoe. Along the way, they meet a beautiful young woman named Ann (Nan Leslie), who is hiding a secret of her own. John is immediately drawn to her, but their growing relationship is threatened by the nefarious forces around them.

Under the Tonto Rim is a classic Western film that features all the familiar elements of the genre. There are shootouts, fistfights, horseback chases, and a strong hero who is willing to stand up for what is right. Tim Holt is convincing as John Randolph, bringing a sense of ruggedness and determination to his character. Richard Martin provides comic relief as Dusty, adding a lighthearted touch to the movie.

The supporting cast is also strong, particularly Nan Leslie as the mysterious Ann. Leslie brings a sense of vulnerability and complexity to her character that elevates her beyond the typical damsel in distress. Robert Barron is appropriately slimy as Judge Flake, and Tom Tyler exudes menace as Kirby.

Director Lew Landers keeps the pace brisk, never allowing the story to become bogged down in unnecessary exposition. The action sequences are well-choreographed, and the cinematography showcases the rugged beauty of the Arizona landscape.

Overall, Under the Tonto Rim is a solid Western that will appeal to fans of the genre. While it may not break any new ground, it is a well-made and entertaining movie that captures the spirit of the Old West.