The Man from Texas (DVD)

Tobias Simms apparently enjoys a quiet, respectable family life in a small Texas town. In reality, he is a notorious bandit known as the El Paso Kid. When his worried wife threatens to leave and take the children with her, Toby agrees to reform and they move to another town, where the former desperado changes his name and opens a feed store. But the Kid's past returns to haunt him when members of his old gang turn up unexpectedly.

Modestly produced but still in a higher budgetary class than most B Westerns, The Man from Texas benefits from a strong cast headed by former M-G-M contractee James Craig and one-time Fox starlet Lynn Bari. Both contribute fine performances, although supporting player Una Merkel steals her scenes as a widow aided by Toby. Leigh Jason's direction emphasizes characterization although there's ample action for thrill-hungry viewers.

• western