Stylish but barely mediocre overall

Expected more

There is definitely an excellent idea hidden in the background of the film. Unfortunately, it's difficult to find it.

Strong acting helps the film overcome an uncertain premise and create characters that hold our attention absolutely.

The Cheyenne Kid's plot could've been lifted out of any one of John Wayne's 1930's Lone Star entries. Rodeo star Keene (who's actually quite likable) has an idiot buddy (s-s-s-tuttering Roscoe Ates) who acts as the glue that brings him and the pretty daughter of a mine owner whose about to be swindled out of his fortune together. Bullets fly and there's the typical 30's oater somewhat anachronistic presence of cars in the beginning of the movie (that all but disappear from the sets later on)--- but Keene actually shows some acting talent when his beloved horse gets shot dead from underneath him--- he cries! (and it's convincing!). The whole thing leaves you wondering why he wasn't a bigger cowboy star... I'm guessing his tendency to try something new with every movie killed off any hopes of developing a fan base in a genre where longevity meant adopting a fixed character (and the same outfit, not to mention the same horse) and running with it. This is an enjoyable way to spend an hour or so on a snowy Saturday morning.

This is a relatively short action packed B western starring Tom Keene made by RKO in 1933.It was in fact shown on BBC some years ago which is how i came to see it.Otherwise it is likely to remain gathering dust on then shelves.It is the usual sort of B Western full of lots of riding and shooting and skulduggery's involving a mine.I think that one of the reasons that this film is rarely seen is that as far as i can see Tom Keene was not a well known star.He does not have any particular unique characteristics such as Hopalong Casssidys black outfit or the Lone Rangers mask.He is just a straight shooting cowboy like dozens who will have been around at the time.