Robert Mitchum's first real role — and he's already stealing scenes from the star!
Beyond the Last Frontier was the first entry in Republic's "John Paul Revere" western series. Journeyman actor Eddie Dew stars as Revere, a Texas Ranger who goes undercover to smash an outlaw gang. Meanwhile, the villains install an informer amongst the Rangers, meaning that Revere will have to take care of this guy before he can complete his assignment. While Eddie Dew was OK in the lead, his thunder was stolen by the young actor cast as "Trigger Dolan"-future superstar Robert Mitchum. The plot was a bit too complicated for a film of this nature, thus future John Paul Revere installments were a bit easier to follow.
Acting
Mitchum's lazy charisma outshines the entire cast.
Production
Republic Pictures factory efficiency: 60 minutes, no fat.
Director
Howard Bretherton
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
This was Robert Mitchum's first substantial film role after years of bit parts and cowboy extra work; Republic signed him to a contract shortly after.
The 'John Paul Revere' series was Republic's attempt to compete with Paramount's 'Texas Rangers' B-pictures, churning out five more installments through 1947.
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