Wild Bill Hickock. 1923. Directed by Clifford S. Smith.

(11/18/99)

William S. Hart is in a fancier, more streamlined Western with more lavish production values and he looks out of place. He was older and heavier than in Hell's Hinges and I think he overacts in places. He doesn't come across well.

I found it hard to follow. I don't know what all the business was about Hart making a promise to lay down his guns (which he has to ask to be released from) and why he has to resign as deputy to fight the villain.

I did like the scene in which Hart loses control and starts passionately kissing the woman he loves, who belongs to another man. That was so human and it rang true.

It was quite a feat in which Hart outshoots the villain (with his gun lying on the floor which he has to pick up!) when we know he is losing his eyesight. It was showmanship--but somehow it wasn't William S. Hart.