HOP-A-LONG CASSIDY from 1935 stars silent movie matinee idol William Boyd (Jun 5, 1895 - Sept 12, 1972). It his first appearance as Hop-a-long. You’re going to find out how he got his nickname in this movie, the first of 66 feature films starring Boyd, and initially produced by Harry “Pop” Sherman. The character of Hop-a-long came from a series of books and pulp stories written by Clarence E. Mulford about a crude and crusty old cowpoke, not how the character evolved on film.
The "Hopalong Cassidy" films were produced between 1935 and 1948, all starring William Boyd in the title role. Boyd was an accomplished actor, and he brought an adult vibe to the character. He also broke the mold and dressed all in black, typically the bad guy’s color. I’m sure most of you are fans of the series, but you’re going to be surprised by the intensity and sharp temper that Boyd brings to Hoppy in this initial outing. He’s very very good and brings the character immediately to life.
James Ellison is Hoppy’s young sidekick who, naturally, is hot for the rancher’s daughter played by Paula Stone. In real life, Stone’s son is writer/producer Michael Sloan, co-creator and producer of TV’s original THE EQUALIZER. Rounding out the heroic trio is Frank McGlynn as Bar 20 wrangler Red Connors, not George Hayes as “Windy.” Hayes is in the film, but he wasn’t “Windy” yet and is Uncle Ben.
Like most of the Hoppy movies, this one was filmed by the great cinematographer Archie Stout (RIO GRANDE, HONDO) in the spectacular location of the Alabama Hills in Lone Pine, California. The successful formula wasn’t quite in place and the action doesn’t really begin until about halfway through the movie. But when it comes…it is a typical, rousing, full on galloping action climax.
It’s easy to see why this series became so popular for so long. Even after the last movie was made, there was such a high demand for more of William Boyd as Hoppy, that a network TV series premiered on NBC in 1949. 52 half-hour episodes were produced.
But now…here’s the film that started it all! Saddle up with one of the all-time great cowboy heroes…William Boyd is…HOPALONG CASSIDY!
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8 сен 2024
