Watch Between Fighting Men

Between Fighting Men is a Western genre film from the pre-Code era, released in 1932. Directed by Forrest Sheldon and starring the charismatic Ken Maynard alongside his equine companion Tarzan and co-starring Ruth Hall, the film is a classic example of early 1930s Western cinema, complete with the daring heroics, romantic overtones, and dramatic tensions typical of the genre.

The movie places its protagonist, Ken, played by Ken Maynard, at the center of a family feud on a Western frontier that's teeming with danger and treachery. Ken embodies the archetypal cowboy hero—brave, principled, and with a natural charm that appeals to the fairer sex. He is skilled with both a lasso and a revolver, and alongside his trusty horse Tarzan, he is seemingly unbeatable, roving the arid landscapes with a sense of purpose and righteousness.

The plot delves into the intricacies of brotherly bonds strained by external conflicts. The story involves Ken and his brother, who find themselves at odds over their father’s ranch. This personal conflict forms the intimate core of the narrative as it explores themes of loyalty, family honor, and sacrifice. Ruth Hall plays the love interest, a woman of poise and beauty whose presence intensifies the brotherly rivalry and adds a layer of romantic complexity to the unfolding drama.

Coloring the struggle are the vast plains, towering mountains, and unforgiving environment of the American West, which serve as much more than a mere backdrop. They are integral to the story, reflecting the isolation and the lawlessness synonymous with the era. Between Fighting Men captures the essence of this untamed land, with its wide-open spaces offering both the promise of freedom and the peril of isolation.

Ken Maynard, a former cowboy, rodeo rider, and stuntman, brings a level of authenticity to the character of Ken with his own adept riding skills and expert horsemanship. In fact, Maynard was known for performing most of his own stunts, and this no doubt added to the thrilling action sequences in the film. His performance resonates with audiences expecting a masculine hero who can handle tough situations with calm and swagger. Ken Maynard's affable screen presence is complemented by the performance of his horse, Tarzan—a horse that became almost as famous as his rider, known for his intelligence and ability to perform stunts.

Ruth Hall, as the female lead, gives the narrative its emotional depth. Her portrayal goes beyond the damsel in distress archetype common to the genre at the time. Hall’s character is pivotal to the story and is instrumental in resolving the central conflicts. Her interactions with Maynard carry the subplot of romance that often accompanies Western adventures and brings a human element to the otherwise rough and tumble world of the characters.

Between Fighting Men is constructed with the dramatic tension necessary for a good Western, delivered through fast-paced action, gunfights, and daring chases on horseback. Moreover, it is peppered with the complexities arising from jealousy, competition, and the quest for redemption. Though considered to be a product of its time, the film still offers a glimpse into the cinematic portrayals of the Old West, with its moral codes and depiction of heroism.

The film’s direction by Forrest Sheldon is steady and pragmatic, employing the techniques and narrative formulas that were standard for Westerns in the early 1930s. Sheldon keeps the pacing brisk, allowing little downtime between each dilemma our hero must face, which helps to maintain engagement and build suspense for audiences.

What also sets Between Fighting Men apart from other movies of its time, perhaps, is its blend of action and character development. While surely delivering on the expected thrills, the story delves into the complications of the human heart in the face of hardship and rivalry. These deeper elements prevent the film from being just another forgettable entry in the Western genre.

Although Between Fighting Men might have been one among many Westerns produced during the early sound era of Hollywood, its blend of romance, family drama, and traditional Western conflict offers an entertaining watch for fans of the genre. The performances bring heart and charisma to the film, which, combined with its picturesque setting and deft action sequences, make it a slice of vintage cinema that carries the feel and texture of its time. It stands as a testament to the heyday of classic Westerns and the larger-than-life figures that populated its scenic vistas and morality tales.

Between Fighting Men is a 2008 action movie with a runtime of 1 minute. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.7.