by Ted Davis

Directed by: Noel M. Smith

Cat Out of the Bag Alert! This review contains some spoilers for this film!

Synopsis: Amiable young borax prospector Dave Weston (Charles Farrell) rescues wounded wolf-dog Lobo (Rin Tin Tin) from a lonely lingering death in the desert, and the two develop a strong bond of trust, affection and loyalty, which pays off in the course of the story when the devoted canine saves May Barstowe (June Marlowe), Dave’s adorable sweetheart, from imminent rape by practiced claim jumper – consummate bad guy Wm. Horton (Pat Hartigan), who gets just the punishment he’s earned, courtesy of the relentless Lobo and his wolf pack.

Cat Burglar (Scene Stealer): Alkaline Bill (Heinie Conklin) works for May’s stern father Sam (Will Walling), and provides what can be euphemistically termed ‘comedy relief’ for the movie, exemplified in the scene where he distracts Lobo from guarding Dave and May while the couple are canoodling in the parlor. (During these moments, in a lame attempt at disguise, the handsome Lobo suffers the indignity of wearing little booties and a shabby set of whiskers.) Bill snaps his fingers to get Lobo’s attention, then pulls a slightly squirmy tuxedo kitten from under his vest.

Bill waves the kitty back and forth, stepping closer to Lobo, who is mildly curious and looks up at the pair.

Next, Bill places the kitten on a high shelf, and directs Lobo’s gaze to the display. The unconcerned kitty begins to clean himself and is not seen again.

Final Mewsings: The kitty was unconcerned because he knew that Rinty aka Lobo intended no harm.

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