William S. Hart Double Feature: The Disciple (1915) (Silent) / The Darkening Trail (1915) (Silent) (DVD)

William S. Hart (1864-1946) 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. Teaming with producer Thomas Ince in 1915, Hart went on to star in and direct a series of excellent westerns, this twin bill being a fine example.These films have great style and quality, from the beautifully designed intercards, to the magnificent location shots, to the realistic costumes and sets. Excellent stories that compliment Hart's outstanding performances and direction grace these gritty and faithful depictions of the old west.

The Darkening Trail (Silent, BW, 1915): After getting his latest girlfriend pregnant, big city playboy Jack Sturgess flees to the wastelands of Alaska. There he meets burly prospector "Yukon" Ed, who subjects the pampered urbanite to a brutal hazing. This attracts the sympathy of Ruby McGraw, Ed's unrequited love. Seeing the beautiful girl as his ticket to survival on the tundra, Sturgess proposes marriage. But with the former socialite only interested in his own pleasures, Ruby falls deathly ill supporting him. Learning that the woman he loves may die, Ed is forced into a showdown with Sturgess. This film was reissued three years later as The Hell-Hound of Alaska. Starring William S. Hart and Louise Glaum. Directed by William S. Hart.

The Disciple (Silent, BW, 1915): Jim Houston, an ordained minister unafraid to use a gun, sets his sights on reforming the town of Barren Gulch. His wife Mary is not so virtuous, however, and is seduced by gambling hall owner "Doc" Hardy. Leaving the priesthood after learning of Mary's betrayal, Jim takes their young daughter and goes to live in the mountains. But when the child becomes ill, he is forced to seek the help of Hardy, the man who destroyed his life. Starring William S. Hart and Dorothy Dalton. Directed by William S. Hart.

• silent