By Indian Post (1919)

By Indian Post Poster

Jode MacWilliams, a cowboy working on the Circle O ranch, has a crush on the boss's daughter, Peg. After his friend writes a love letter for him, an Indian steals and delivers it to Peg. Meanwhile, word of Jode's affection reaches Peg's father, who has a decidedly less romantic view of this young couple.

Film Overview
"By Indian Post" is a silent brief romance western film launched in 1919. Directed by John Ford and Sidney Algier, the Western has a run-time of 20 minutes. The film stars Pete Morrison, an iconic actor of western genre silent movies, as John Pardon, Duke R. Lee as Paul Revore aka 'Hawk Eye', and Magda Lane as Nellie. Regardless of its brevity, the film effectively highlights aspects of love, suspense, dispute, and resolution, producing an appealing cinematic experience.

Introduction to Characters and Plot
John Pardon is a cowboy living in a little Western town. Nellie, who he considers his sweetie, is at the center of his world. Paul Revore, a half-native American also referred to as the 'Hawk Eye,' is the antagonist and Pardon's principal competitor, particularly in vying for Nellie's love. The movie presents a strong rivalry style and showcases the lengths the two rivals are willing to go to claim Nellie's love.

Conflict and Rivalry
The story unfolds with Hawk Eye creating a letter from Pardon to Nellie, stating that he is going away. This deception belongs to his plan to win Nellie's heart. Unaware of the truth, Nellie is sad as she thinks Pardon has abandoned her without any explanation.

Climax and Resolution
Nevertheless, the climax happens when Pardon finds Hawk Eye's sly strategy. In a traditional western face-off, Pardon faces Hawk Eye, culminating in a dramatic battle. Ultimately, Pardon emerges victoriously as the hero, exposing Hawk Eye's duplicity to Nellie, and thus clears all the misunderstandings between them. He saves Nellie from Hawk Eye and reclaims her love, offering a picturesque depiction of a classic western romance.

Images and Portrayal
Depicted within the timeless western backdrop, the movie includes a rich representation of the Western genre's topography, culture, and human mind. The world of cowboys, open landscapes, horse chases after and battles adds to a visual phenomenon even without the assistance of acoustic elements. The beautiful cinematography and thoughtful movie script make the viewer experience the raw feelings of the characters. Also, it's worth mentioning the vivacity with which the competition between Pardon and Hawk Eye is portrayed.

Conclusion
"By Indian Post" can be viewed as an exceptional example of early 20th-century Western quiet films. In spite of its short duration, it handles to catch the timeless aspects of a Western while flawlessly integrating romantic aspects. The rivalry between Pardon and Hawk Eye, followed by the ultimate triumph of honesty over deceit, forms an interesting story supported by compelling performance from the cast.

In summary, "By Indian Post" may be short but it loads a punch. The competent plot and the impressive acting make it worth a watch, particularly for fans of the quiet Western genre. It's a timeless quiet western brief movie that blends love, betrayal, and heroism completely to entertain and mesmerize viewers.

Top Cast

  • Pete Morrison (small)
    Pete Morrison
    Jode MacWilliams - the Foreman of Circle O, in Love with Peg
  • Duke R. Lee (small)
    Duke R. Lee
    Pa Owens - the Owner of the Ranch, Peg's Dad
  • Magda Lane
    Peg Owens - the Ranch Owner's Daughter
  • Edward Burns
  • Hoot Gibson (small)
    Hoot Gibson
    Chub -Jode's Helpful Cowboy Friend
  • Jack Woods
    Dutch
  • Harley Chambers
    Fritz
  • Jim Moore
    Two Horns - a Facetious Indian
  • Jack Walters
    Andy
  • Otto Meyer
    Swede (as Otto Myers)