Relentless (1948) | Directed by George Sherman

"Relentless" (1948) is a Western film directed by George Sherman, based on the novel *Three Were Thoroughbreds* by Kenneth Perkins. The film stars Robert Young, Marguerite Chapman, and Barton MacLane in a tense and dramatic story of survival, betrayal, and the pursuit of justice. Set against the backdrop of the vast deserts and rugged landscapes of the American West, the film follows Nick Buckley (Robert Young), a cowboy who becomes a fugitive after being wrongly accused of murder.

The plot revolves around Nick’s desperate journey to clear his name while being pursued by relentless bounty hunters and lawmen. As the film progresses, Nick races against time to find the real killer, while evading capture and contending with the harsh frontier elements. His only allies are Luella Purdy (Marguerite Chapman), a strong-willed woman who believes in his innocence, and his loyal horse named Mike.

"Relentless" captures the moral complexities of the American West, where loyalty, justice, and survival often clash. With stunning cinematography that showcases the unforgiving wilderness, the film offers a compelling blend of action, suspense, and character-driven drama.

"Relentless" is a noteworthy example of post-World War II Westerns, a genre that gained renewed popularity in the late 1940s. Directed by George Sherman, known for his skill in crafting action-packed Westerns, the film is a well-paced, visually striking portrayal of the American frontier. Sherman’s direction emphasizes both the physical and emotional struggles of the characters, with Robert Young giving a strong, relatable performance as Nick Buckley, the wrongfully accused cowboy.

Robert Young, typically known for his roles in contemporary dramas and romantic films, surprises in this Western role with his effective portrayal of Nick—a man determined to clear his name while battling insurmountable odds. His performance brings emotional depth to the character, portraying desperation and determination that elevate the film beyond a simple man-on-the-run story. His on-screen chemistry with Marguerite Chapman (Luella) adds warmth to the film, providing a balance between action and romance.

The supporting cast adds further richness to the film. Barton MacLane, playing Sheriff Jeff Moyer, is a standout, portraying the determined lawman intent on capturing Nick. Akim Tamiroff, in his role as Joe Faringo, provides a lighter, humorous touch, breaking up the tension with his shady yet entertaining character.

The film’s cinematography, overseen by Edward Cronjager, plays a crucial role in making "Relentless" visually compelling. The vast desert landscapes and treacherous mountains serve not only as a backdrop but as another character in the film, representing the harsh and unforgiving nature of life on the frontier. Cronjager’s work successfully captures the tension and isolation that Nick feels as he battles both human and environmental adversaries.

The pacing of the film allows for moments of reflection amidst the action, giving it a more contemplative quality than the typical Western. However, the action scenes—especially the chase sequences—are well-executed, demonstrating Sherman’s ability to build suspense and deliver thrilling cinematic moments.

"Relentless" was well-received by critics upon its release in 1948. While the plot was recognized as somewhat formulaic, following familiar Western themes, the film was praised for its strong execution, solid direction, and the performances of Robert Young and Marguerite Chapman. The visual appeal of the desert landscapes and action-packed sequences added to the film’s appeal.

Robert Young’s performance garnered significant attention, as it marked a departure from his typical roles. His portrayal of Nick Buckley was praised for its intensity and emotional grounding, making him a sympathetic and compelling protagonist. The moral ambiguity of the story, with Nick falsely accused and hunted, resonated with audiences, reflecting a postwar America that was beginning to question traditional notions of justice and right versus wrong.

Though not considered a groundbreaking film in the Western genre, "Relentless" succeeded in providing an engaging story with a strong character arc and well-crafted action scenes. It remains a respected entry among Western films of the 1940s.

Over time, "Relentless" has earned its place as a well-regarded Western, offering a nuanced take on the genre’s classic themes of justice and survival. It is remembered for its engaging performances, particularly by Robert Young, who successfully stepped into a Western role, and for its striking use of the American landscape to enhance its storytelling.

While it may not have reached the iconic status of other Westerns from the period, "Relentless" remains a solid example of the genre and a testament to George Sherman’s ability to craft a tight, character-driven Western. Today, it continues to be appreciated by fans of classic Westerns and offers a glimpse into the changing moral and social dynamics of postwar America, as portrayed through the lens of the frontier.

Full Cast:

- Robert Young as Nick Buckley
- Marguerite Chapman as Luella Purdy
- Barton MacLane as Sheriff Jeff Moyer
- Willard Parker as Tex Brandaw
- Akim Tamiroff as Joe Faringo
- Mike (the Horse) as Nick’s horse, Mike
- Florence Bates as Mrs. Purdy
- Griff Barnett as Judge Donaldson