The Brand Release (25 Jan. 1959)

Good hook—a foot sticking out the side of an unmanned buckboard. So what's the story? Seems the injured man (Lee Farr) has stolen some cattle and now the local sheriff (Russell Thorsen) wants to take him back. But Troop senses something fishy, especially with Thorson's mean- looking deputy. Things get complicated when tyrannical cattleman RG Armstrong turns up making demands. So, how will the story play out.

The showdown is especially well staged. That's not surprising since can't help noticing the entry is directed by Stuart Heisler, who helmed a number of superior films of the 1940's. Then too, there's the imposing RG Armstrong, forceful enough to facedown the gimlet-eyed Troop. He's also one of those unsung actors whose ability made any show better. Nice turns too by Farr (note how well he acts with his eyes) and by Thorson as the conflicted sheriff. Nothing really different here, just a good story very well done.