Wild Horse (1931)

Film Overview
"Wild Horse" is a timeless movie released in 1931, during the period of pre-code Hollywood. The film was directed by Edward F. Cline and starred famous actors of the era, Hoot Gibson and Sally Eilers. The plot of the motion picture focuses on the Wild West horse racing scene, where Gibson's character, a cowboy named Buck Holmes, intends to save his valued stallion, Wildfire, from being mistakenly accused of killing someone.

Plot Summary
The movie starts with Buck Holmes being commanded to shoot his horse Wildfire, as it was incorrectly implicated of killing a male. Nevertheless, he thinks in his horse's innocence and endeavors to save the animal. He escapes with Wildfire and ends up in a little western town, where he enters a bar brawl which leaves him poverty-stricken. There, Buck fulfills Mary, played by Sally Eilers, who owns and runs the bar.

In spite of their initial confrontations, Buck and Mary end up being close. In order to repay his financial obligation to the bar, and to purchase fodder and shelter for Wildfire, Buck gets himself registered in a horse race. Mary takes interest in Buck's determination and his love for his horse, as does the audience. The vibrant between Buck and Mary adds a romantic subplot to the film.

The Horse Race
Hearing about the cash prize for winning a significant race, Buck sees it as a method to clear his horse's name. The race becomes the emphasize of the film, with Buck figured out to win regardless of all chances. Dollar and Wildfire face stiff competition, cheats from rivals, and a plethora of barriers. Dollar's bravery, decision, and undying faith in his horse's innocence produce several high-stacity scenes.

Resolution and Conclusion
The climax of the movie is formed by the much-anticipated horse race. Dollar, aboard Wildfire, handles to win the race, proving his horse's strength and shattering all doubts about its lethality. The victory also results in uncovering the truth about the incorrect allegation on Wildfire. It is revealed that Wildfire was not the killer, but was framed.

In the end, Buck resolves the secret and clears his horse's name. The profits from the race, coupled with the resolution of the allegation, make it a pleased ending for Buck and Wildfire. There is a romantic resolution also when Buck and Mary express their feelings for each other.

Critical Reception
"Wild Horse" offers audiences a slice of the Wild West with its horse-frenzied plot and old-time cowboy appeal. In spite of its easy storyline, "Wild Horse" was applauded for its representation of the bond between people and animals, especially horses, which, at that time, were thought about main figures in the income and survival of individuals. The performances of Hoot Gibson as Buck and Sally Eilers as Mary were extremely valued. The movie, being a pleasant blend of love, action, and drama, with its hectic horse racing series, was well received by audiences in 1931.

In summary, "Wild Horse" is a film about love, determination, faith, and the strong, amazing bond in between a cowboy and his horse, embeded in a fascinating Wild West landscape. This 1931 movie stays a timeless example of early Hollywood's representation of human-animal relationships and the cowboy life.

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