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The Lawless Breed (1953)

1953 • 1h 23m • Western • NR
On October 4, 2026
#56058
56058th by Pulse movie online
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All reviews

John Chard on The Lawless Breed

7/10 · May 20, 2017

I never killed anyone who didn't try to kill me first. The Lawless Breed comes from director Raoul Walsh and features a story by William Alland and a screenplay by Bernard Gordon. The film includes Rock Hudson, Julie Adams, John McIntire, Mary Castle, Hugh O’Brian, and Dennis Weaver. Joseph Gershenson handled the music, while Irving Glassberg was in charge of cinematography. The narrative centers on the life of outlaw John Wesley Hardin (Hudson), based on his own memoirs. It follows his release from jail and depicts his experiences outside the law and while he's a fugitive. The film suggests that Hardin was largely a victim of circumstance, with his life descending into chaos after killing someone in self-defense. Let’s put aside the claims from those involved that this is a true story; it’s Hollywood, so it should be enjoyed as entertainment. For Western enthusiasts, it's genuinely enjoyable viewing. Aside from an unnecessary “happy ending,” the film is mostly interesting and visually appealing. Hardin's time on the run provides several exciting moments, showcasing some impressive stunt work. Whether he's evading "Texas Rangers" who have set traps or participating in well-staged horse races (Hardin was a known gambler), Raoul Walsh and his team clearly worked to keep this film above standard B-movie fare. Filmed in vibrant Technicolor on the Andy Jauregui and Janss Conejo ranches in California, with some exterior shots at Vasquez Rocks, the movie consistently feels bright, which doesn’t quite match the sense of confinement that should come from an outlaw constantly fleeing and looking over his shoulder. It also requires a bit much from viewers to accept that Hardin is practically invulnerable, something that works occasionally but becomes tiresome with repetition. Despite its flaws, the film's purpose is entertainment, and overlooking those issues isn’t difficult. The interactions between characters are consistently engaging, and the cast delivers solid performances. McIntire is memorable in a double role, Hudson maintains a stoic presence, and Adams captivates with her beauty and allure. This production does a good job of showcasing Adams' talent to audiences. There aren't many better-looking women in Westerns, and one scene in particular elicits both appreciative whistles and a racing pulse. With easy-listening music from Gershenson and rich colors captured by Glassberg, The Lawless Breed proves to be a better than average experience for those who like Westerns. 7/10

Source on TMDB