Destry Rides Again

Although Max Brand's popular novel was filmed numerous times, director George Marshall's 1939 version comes the closest to capturing the true spirit of the yarn, even if it's not the most literal rendition. James Stewart stars as Tom Destry, a milk-drinking deputy out to clean up a town run by a crooked gambler (Brian Donlevy). In a role similar to the one she played in The Blue Angel, Marlene Dietrich costars as Frenchy, a saloon singer working for Donlevy, but with a yen for Stewart. Although the ending (in which someone takes a bullet meant for someone else) adds a somber note, this is essentially a wonderful parody of the western genre (with musical numbers, no less!). Unfortunately, the DVD debut is less than sparkling: not only is the image grainy and soft in spots, but the Dolby Digital mono mix sounds rather hollow, and the disc is absolutely barebones. Still, this is a movie collection staple, and the price is right at $14.98. Recommended, overall. [Note: other newly released titles in the "Universal Western Collection" priced at $14.98 include: Winchester '73, Shenandoah, Two Mules for Sister Sara and Bend of the River.] (R. Pitman)