The Return of Draw Egan (1916)

★★★★★ · An excellent Western · puckerbush · 2013-04-24

I thought this film was excellent; a 1916 western film directed by and starring an authentic cowboy/actor named William S. Hart - It was well directed and the actors played their parts very well with the expected and exaggerated 19th Century dramatic gesturing and acting style that was typical of early silent films like this one - Silent acting took much skill and experience, it was essentially pantomime on film - In those days moviegoers didn't get up and buy popcorn, candy, or soft drinks and return to their seats like we do now - They sat glued to their seats, barely moving, completely…

★★★★★ · Great William S. Hart Western · GapOkie · 2013-05-02

Early westerns like Hart's movies set the arch-type for about all the western to follow. The stranger who saves the town, gal's ranch, stage line, etc. Early silent actors did use broad gestures because of stage training where the audience was far from the action, but they soon learned the value of close ups. Love the saloon scene where Eagan says to the bully, "If I'd a'knowed they allowed animals in this here saloon I'd a brought my horse in.", followed by a short fight.

★★★★ · An Original Western Template · bobsluckycat · 2012-02-27

If you really are a film buff and want to see the original template of a good western this well preserved and highly watchable film is for you. Starring William S. Hart (the first of the best)and a large gang of people in support including in key roles, Marguery Wilson and Robert McKim. What's really best about this film is the way Director William S. Hart stages his crowd scenes in the bar and on the street. He's in total control and it's well lit and well photographed and copied for years and years since in a multitude of westerns. Hart is especially good as the mysterious Marshall. All the…