Whistlin' Dan

Whistlin' Dan is a classic Western film from 1932, directed by Phil Rosen and starring Ken Maynard, Tarzan, and Joyzelle Joyner. The movie centers on the character of Whistlin' Dan, a legendary sharpshooter who wanders into a small Western town with his trusty horse, Blackie. Dan is on the run from a gang of outlaws who are after him for reasons that are not immediately clear.

As soon as Dan arrives in town, he finds himself embroiled in a web of trouble. There are a couple of romantic interests vying for his attention, including a saloon girl named Blaze, played by Joyzelle Joyner, and a wealthy rancher's daughter named Sally, played by Alice Dahl. However, Dan's main concern is catching up with the outlaws who are pursuing him.

In the meantime, the corrupt sheriff, played by Harry Todd, is in league with the outlaws and is determined to capture Dan, who he believes is responsible for several murders. As the plot unfolds, it becomes clear that the outlaws are not what they seem, and Whistlin' Dan must use all his skills and cunning to stay alive and clear his name.

The movie is full of classic Western tropes, including dramatic shootouts, high-speed horse chases, and showdowns at high noon. Ken Maynard, who plays Whistlin' Dan, is a charismatic lead with a rugged, cowboy charm. Joyzelle Joyner plays Blaze with sass and spunk, and Tarzan is a scene-stealing sidekick who adds a bit of comic relief.

One of the standout features of Whistlin' Dan is its use of music. The film is filled with catchy melodies that are hummed by Whistlin' Dan throughout the story. The songs, which were written by Cliff Hess and Jack Stern, are simple but memorable and help to create an atmosphere of folksy authenticity.

The film's visual style is also impressive. The cinematography, by Benjamin Kline, is crisp and clear, with shots of the desert landscape and the bustling Western town providing a vivid sense of place. The action scenes are well-staged, with Maynard performing some impressive stunts and trick shots.

Overall, Whistlin' Dan is a fun and engaging Western adventure, full of memorable characters and exciting set pieces. It's not a particularly complex or thought-provoking movie, but it delivers on its promises of action and entertainment. Fans of classic Westerns will find a lot to enjoy here, and it's a great example of the genre at its best.