"The Texan" is a most unusual film by Gary Cooper. It was presumed lost for decades but just recently the movie was restored and shown on Starz. And, since I love classic films, it is natural that I'd watch this movie. Thanks to Bruce Kogan for letting me know that this was finally available!
When the story begins, the Llano Kid (Gary Cooper) is a wanted criminal in the old west. After a dust up in a Texas town, he's on the run and makes the acquaintance of a man who offers him a chance to make big money. It seems a family he knows in South America has a long-lost son and he wants the Kid to pose as this lost son. It makes some sense, as the Kid speaks Spanish and is about the same age....so all he needs is a tattoo and some coaching and he should be able to fool Don Enrique's mother. And, the plan ends up working very well..perhaps too well. As now the Kid has come to love his new 'mother' and can't stand the notion of hurting her. But what about his partner in crime? Surely he won't sit still for the Kid changing their bargain.
I liked the slow and deliberate pace of this film...some might see it as being too slow. Also when you compare it to other westerns made in 1930, this one is superior to most...with some nice acting, production values and an interesting story. Sure, the story is a bit familiar...but it wasn't back in 1930. Well made, well worth your time.
