Blake Edwards and producing partner John C.
Champion were mere "lads" (Variety review) in mid-twenties when they
got up scratch and an Allied Artists release deal for a western the two wrote
and Edwards acted in (as henchman heavy). This was tyro Edwards' first story
and producer credit, quality result giving notice that he'd be around a long
time. Panhandle had "A" aspirations and was booked accordingly,
smaller houses impressed enough to play the western solo. You could sell an
oater then on basisof a "fiercest fight" or "Glorious
Sepia-Tone," and trade reviews gave Panhandle a boost to encourage more
such indie effort as challenge to big-studio dominance. Good and sometimes
cheeky dialogue reflects youthful spin on cowpoke clichés, and pace is
maintained by long in the saddle Lesley Selander as director. There's no energy
like that of beginners, and Champion/Edwards lent abundance of theirs to
Panhandle's career calling card; I can picture insiders' peek at this leading
to welcome mats for the two on major lots. It's still a "Darn Good
Western" as pledged by VCI on their Volume One DVD box cover, along with
five other actioners of similar interest.
I recently saw this film and thoroughly enjoyed it, including the solid script and some creative staging (loved the final shootout in the rain). Was delighted that you appreciated this one as well and called attention to it with your post. :)
1 Comments:
I recently saw this film and thoroughly enjoyed it, including the solid script and some creative staging (loved the final shootout in the rain). Was delighted that you appreciated this one as well and called attention to it with your post. :)
Best wishes,
Laura
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