You know the type of BB gun that Ralphie wants in A Christmas Story? This is a serial based on the Red Ryder character (from a comic) that the BB gun is a tie in for. The comic was also the source of several feature films as well a well loved TV show. The plot concerns Red Ryder, Little Beaver and their friends fighting some land speculators who are forcibly buying up all the land along a proposed railroad route. Its one of the better Western serials that any of the studios cranked out with all of the action and excitement that you'd expect. To be honest I'm not a huge western serial fan because there is really a limit as to what you can use as a cliffhanger and in order for me to really like a western serial it has to take what is well worn and dress it up in some way. This serial does just that thanks to really good characters and actors to bring them alive. There is a reason that Don Barry was nicked name "red" after portraying the character, namely he's really good. What really helps as well is that the production is first rate with the serial looking more like what would be one of the better western TV show from the 1950's (which isn't surprising since many serial makers and studios jumped into TV with both feet). It maybe corny but if you're going to see one western serial, this is the one to see. (and watch to see how a clearly adult rider does all the riding for the young boy Little Beaver)
Review of Adventures of Red Ryder
