Shane

This is by no means a conventional giddyap-oater feature, being a western in the truer sense of the ranking with some of the select few that have become classics in the outdoor field. Director George Stevens handles the story and players with tremendous integrity. Alan Ladd’s performance takes on dimensions not heretofore noticeable in his screen work. Van Heflin commands attention with a sensitive perfpormance, as real and earnest as the pioneer spirit he plays. The story takes place in Wyoming, where a group of farmer-settlers have taken land formerly held by a cattle baron. The latter resents this intrusion on the free land and the fences that come with the setting down of home roots. His fight is against Heflin cliefly, who is the driving force that keeps the frightened farmers together. Just when it seems the cattle man may eventually have his way, a stranger, known only as Shane, (a name that is repeated one too many times during the film in my estimation), rides on to Heflin’s homestead, is taken in and becomes one of the settlers, as he tries to forget his previous life. Jean Arthur plays the role of Heflin’s wife, who is attracted to the stranger. A standout is the young stage actor Brandon deWilde, who worships Shane. Jack Palance plays a hired killer in the film and he is exceptional.