The Great K & A Train Robbery

Typically energetic escapist Western from one of the earliest stars to set the generic formula. Officially listed as an army deserter in 1902, Mix became national rodeo champion in 1909, and entered films with the Selig company a year later. With the accent on pace, stuntwork and a modicum of comic relief, his films achieved massive success, and a Fox contract followed from 1917 to 1928, until the coming of sound and the lure of the circus conspired to slow his prolific output. Here, as a railroad detective going undercover to foil a persistent gang, he crossed paths with versatile B director Seiler, a former Fox gagman who was still churning 'em out in 1958.