The Narrow Trail

Outside the pale of civilization, two western Kings roam. One is a wild horse; the other is William S. Hart (as Ice Harding), evil leader of the most daring band of outlaws in the Nevadas. Not surprisingly, Mr. Hart is the man to tame the wild Pinto, which he names "King". Then, masked for thieving, Hart robs a coach containing Sylvia Breamer (as Betty Werdin). The seemingly sweet Ms. Breamer is traveling with her "Uncle", Milton Ross (as Admiral Bates). Hart thinks Breamer is, "The most wonderful being he has ever seen." In town, Breamer's icky wonderfulness begins to melt Hart's icy wickedness. But, Hart doesn't know Breamer's secret…

The first of Hart's Paramount period (though, second released) is a definitive high point; "The Narrow Trail" is one of the best examples of the "Hart western" (if you're looking for one to sample). The star, director Lambert Hillyer, and photographer Joe August are at their best, creating a beautiful landscape for the Hart formula to play upon.

The film is perfectly paced.

Hart's horse, "Fritz" (as "King"), makes a screen "return", which fits amazingly well into the storyline. And, Hart has one of his most conscientious "man to horse" talks. Best of all is the twist on a recurring Hart feature; to wit, an otherwise ordinary woman attracts Hart with an allurement only he can see; but, this one's refreshingly different.

********* The Narrow Trail (12/30/17) Lambert Hillyer ~ William S. Hart, Sylvia Breamer, Milton Ross, Bob Kortman