On the Night Stage (Silent) (DVD)

Highwayman "Texas" Smith is love with saloon trollop Belle Sheilds and plans to steal her away for a Mexican wedding. He is amused when preacher Alexander Austin arrives in the lawless town, intent on reform. He is less amused when Austin convinces Belle to leave her life of sin. Mocked by a crowd of drunken cowpokes for being upstaged by a "Sky Pilot," furious Tex takes on the whole bar single-handedly. Austin, a former boxer leaps to his aid, and the two make short work of the barflies and become friends. Tex is devastated to learn that Belle has accepted Austin's proposal of marriage, but the despondent road agent stoically accepts the news. When "Handsome Jack" Malone, a former lover, lures newlywed Belle into a compromising position, he threatens to tell her husband, unless she agrees to a secret rendezvous. Belle confesses her dilemma to Tex who rides off to confront Malone.

William S. Hart began as a highly acclaimed Shakespearean actor on Broadway who entertained no aspiration for movie acting prior to age 49. A major western buff, he purchased Billy The Kid's pistols and boasted friendships with both Wyatt Earp and Bat Masterson. Partnering with producer Thomas Ince in 1915, Hart went on to star in and direct dozens of memorable westerns. The superior style and quality of these films is evident in the beautifully designed intercards, the magnificent location shots and the realistic costumes and sets. On The Night Stage is notable as one of Hart's earliest efforts for Thomas Ince. Yet to become an established star, he receives third billing.

• western