Hills of Old Wyoming (1937)

Embarking on the 10th adventure in the riveting 66-film saga of Hopalong Cassidy, this tale introduces us to Cassidy's trusted protégé, Mesquite "Lucky" Jenkins, magnificently brought to life by Russell Hayden. This film marks the first and only mention of Mesquite Jenkins, a character inspired by the expansive tales of Clarence E. Mulford. Yet, it's the dynamic trio of William Boyd, Russell Hayden, and the enigmatic George Hayes (mistakenly credited as "Gabby" in pre-1939 cast listings due to a misunderstanding with Paramount) that leaves a lasting impression on the audience. This masterful collaboration is considered a gem by devotees of both the Western genre and the Cassidy series. Set against the rugged backdrop of a Wyoming Indian reservation, the plot unfolds amidst a heated conflict. Local ranchers are falling prey to relentless cattle rustlers who cunningly manipulate evidence to point towards the Native American inhabitants of the reservation. Hopalong Cassidy, along with his comrades, Lucky Jenkins and "Windy" Halliday, decide to intervene, purchasing the Bar Three Ranch in the beleaguered territory. Cassidy's keen eye soon falls upon Andrews, the deputy government agent overseeing the reservation, suspecting his hidden involvement with the rustling operations. When Lone Eagle, a half-breed colluding with the robbers, is discovered dead, Andrews seizes the opportunity to pin the murder on the ranchers and incite the Indians against them. In a daring move, Cassidy persuades the Indian chief of Andrews' treachery, pointing out that Lone Eagle's evil stemmed from his white half. With the help of an Indian scout, Cassidy manages to link Andrews to Lone Eagle's murder. This revelation prompts a powerful alliance between the Indians and the ranchers, who unite under Cassidy's leadership to launch an audacious assault on the rustler's stronghold. As the drama unfolds, Lee Zahler's agitated score from the earlier "Borderland" stirs the soul, echoing the turbulent emotions and high-stakes action of this gripping Western saga. The Hills of Old Wyoming paints a vivid portrait of courage, unity, and the relentless pursuit of justice, as our heroes face down adversity in the wild frontier.

Hills of Old Wyoming is a western movie featuring Morris Ankrum.

Hills of Old Wyoming is currently streaming on Starz Play Amazon Channel.