Film Info
Rhythm of the Saddle
1938
Republic Pictures
Production #: 706
58 minutes
Synopsis:
As foreman of the Silver Saddle Ranch, Gene Autry must stage a rodeo in Overland, Nevada, for his employer, ranch owner Maureen McClune. At stake is the contract for next year's rodeo, to be awarded by rodeo chairman Clyde Chase. Gene meets competition from Pomeroy, unscrupulous ranch owner and nightclub operator, who bribes Chase for the new contract. When Gene discovers that Pomeroy has a big bet on the Pony Express race, he fools Chase into thinking his deal with Pomeroy is exposed. When Chase runs to Pomeroy, looking to call off their deal, Gene arrives and orders Chase to call the sheriff. Pomeroy's henchmen overcome Gene, while Pomeroy forces Chase into phoning the sheriff, shooting him with Gene's gun. Gene escapes and is charged for Chase's murder. Champion brings Maureen and Frog Millhouse to Gene's hiding place in Blue Grass Canyon where Gene reveals his plan that will allow him to ride in the Pony Express race and force Pomeroy's hand. During the thrilling race, Frog hides near the box occupied by Pomeroy and his henchman. Using a transcription machine, he records a conversation which will incriminate the whole gang. As Gene drives his coach first across the finish line, Frog plays the recording over the loudspeaker system. Pomeroy attempts to flee the Silver Saddle deputies, but is killed by his own racing entry as he runs across the rodeo grounds.
Cast:
| Character: | Performer: |
| Gene Autry | Gene Autry |
| Frog Millhouse | Smiley Burnette |
| Aunt Hattie | Pert Kelton |
| Maureen McClune | Peggy Moran |
| Pomeroy | Le Roy Mason |
| Clyde Chase | Arthur Loft |
| Tex Robinson | Ethan Laidlaw |
| Leach | Walter De Palma |
| Rusty | Archie Hall |
| Alec | Eddie Hart |
| Dixie Erwin | Eddie Acuff |
| Champion | Champion |
Songs:
| MERRY-GO-ROUNDUP | Gene Autry |
| OH, LADIES | Gene Autry, Smiley Burnette |
| WHEN MOTHER NATURE SINGS HER LULLABY | Gene Autry, Extras |
| OLD TRAIL | Gene Autry, Extras |
| LET ME CALL YOU SWEETHEART | Gene Autry, Smiley Burnette |
Crew:
| Director | George Sherman |
| Associate Producer | Harry Grey |
| Original Screenplay | Paul Franklin |
| Production Manager | Al Wilson |
| Photography | Jack Marta |
| Film Editor | Lester Orlebeck |
| Musical Director | Raoul Kraushaar |
