Watch The Cheyenne Social Club

The Cheyenne Social Club, released in 1970, tells the story of John O'Hanlan, a cowboy played by James Stewart, who inherits a brothel in Wyoming from his brother. The unexpected inheritance takes John by surprise and he decides to leave Texas to go to Wyoming to claim his inheritance. Accompanied by his lifelong friend, the straight-laced gunsmith Harley Sullivan played by Henry Fonda, John sets out on a journey to Cheyenne, the capital of Wyoming, to take over the brothel.

Upon arrival in Cheyenne, John discovers that the brothel is not what he expected. He thought he had inherited a saloon or a bar, but instead, he received a social club - a high-class establishment for gentlemen that offers more than just drinks and entertainment. John finds a new purpose in life and decides to turn the social club into a respectable business. He wants to bring elegance and distinction to the place, but he will have to fight against the prejudices of the local community and overcome the moral taboos of the time.

Shirley Jones plays Jenny, the club's capable and attractive manager who becomes John's right-hand woman. Jenny tries to maintain order in the establishment despite the pressure from the locals who want to close the club down. John and Jenny develop a close relationship, but they keep it professional, and there is no romantic involvement between the two of them.

In addition to the challenges of running and promoting the club, John also has to deal with the legal claim of a woman who says she is the rightful owner of the establishment. John has to resort to all his skills as a cowboy to defend his property and protect his employees and friends.

Throughout the movie, John and Harley face the humorous and absurd situations that arise from running a brothel in a small, conservative town. They must also rely on the loyalty and support of their new friends, such as an elderly judge, played by Chill Wills, and a barkeeper, played by Jackie Russell, who help them in their venture.

The Cheyenne Social Club is a lighthearted comedy that combines the Western genre with the classic screwball comedy. The film presents a contrast between John's old-fashioned sense of chivalry and the modern sensibilities of the social club. John's character embodies the traditional values of the Wild West, while the social club represents the sensibilities and aspirations of a changing society.

The movie was directed by Gene Kelly and produced by James Lee Barrett. Kelly, best known for his roles in musicals, brings his flair for choreography and direction to the film's more humorous scenes. The screenplay was written by James Lee Barrett, who also wrote the screenplay for the 1978 film, The Green Berets. The movie was shot on location in New Mexico and Wyoming, and the stunning landscapes and sweeping vistas of the West are showcased throughout the film.

The Cheyenne Social Club was released at a time when the Western genre was declining in popularity. The film was not a commercial success, but it has since developed a cult following and is considered a classic of the genre. The movie portrays the Western as a place of humor and fun rather than just violence and bloodshed. The movie's star cast, including legends like James Stewart and Henry Fonda, also adds to its appeal.

Overall, The Cheyenne Social Club is a charming and entertaining film that deserves its place as a hidden gem of the Western genre. It's a movie that can be enjoyed by fans of classic comedies, Westerns, or those who just want to watch something with a bit of heart and humor.

The Cheyenne Social Club is a 1970 western with a runtime of 1 hour and 43 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.