Dark Command poster

Dark Command (1940)

"A drama of undying love."

6.319401h 34mEN
DramaRomanceWestern

Directed by Raoul Walsh

Rating

6.3/10

Runtime

1h 34m

Language

EN

Release

April 15, 1940

Director

Raoul Walsh

Official Trailer

Trailer thumbnail

Overview

When transplanted Texan Bob Seton arrives in Lawrence, Kansas he finds much to like about the place, especially Mary McCloud, daughter of the local banker. Politics is in the air however. It's just prior to the civil war and there is already a sharp division in the Territory as to whether it will re...

Cast

Claire Trevor

Claire Trevor

Miss Mary McCloud

John Wayne

John Wayne

Bob Seton

Walter Pidgeon

Walter Pidgeon

William 'Will' Cantrell

Roy Rogers

Roy Rogers

Fletcher 'Fletch' McCloud

George 'Gabby' Hayes

George 'Gabby' Hayes

Andrew 'Doc' Grunch

Porter Hall

Porter Hall

Angus McCloud

Marjorie Main

Marjorie Main

Mrs. Cantrell / Mrs. Adams

Raymond Walburn

Raymond Walburn

Judge Buckner

Joe Sawyer

Joe Sawyer

Bushropp

Helen MacKellar

Helen MacKellar

Mrs. Hale

J. Farrell MacDonald

J. Farrell MacDonald

Dave

Trevor Bardette

Trevor Bardette

Mr. Hale

Introduction

In this latest movie review, we dive deep into Dark Command (1940), exploring its intricate plot and standout performances that have everyone talking.

When transplanted Texan Bob Seton arrives in Lawrence, Kansas he finds much to like about the place, especially Mary McCloud, daughter of the local banker. Politics is in the air however. It's just prior to the civil war and there is already a sharp division in the Territory as to whether it will remain slave-free. When he gets the opportunity to run for marshal, Seton finds himself running against the respected local schoolteacher, William Cantrell. Not is what it seems however. While acting as the upstanding citizen in public, Cantrell is dangerously ambitious and is prepared to do anything to make his mark, and his fortune, on the Territory. When he loses the race for marshal, he forms a group of raiders who run guns into the territory and rob and terrorize settlers throughout the territory. Eventually donning Confederate uniforms, it is left to Seton and the good citizens of Lawrence to face Cantrell and his raiders in one final clash.

🛑 Story ExplainedSpoiler Warning

Our story explained section breaks down the complex narrative of Dark Command. The full story follows a progression that challenges typical tropes, leading to a climax that requires careful analysis.

🏆 Final Verdict

5 / 5 Stars

A triumphant piece of cinema that blends gripping narrative with breathtaking visuals.

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