
Mysterious cowboy Bill Patton (as Bob Norton) arrives, "in the land of the West - on the banks of the Rio Grande," at the "Bar-V" ranch. Ostensibly seeking employment, Mr. Patton is revealed, as the plot unravels, an undercover Texas Ranger. Patton wants to get a job at the "Bar-V", and round-up evidence against newly appointed foreman, and all-around snake-in-the-grass, Jack House (as "Buck" Bailey).
Directed by William Bertram, Smoking Trails leans on a strong ensemble — Bill Patton, William Bertram, Jack House — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.
The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about western titles of 1924.
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Two black bounty hunters ride into a small town out West in pursuit of an outlaw. They discover that the town has no sheriff, and soon take over that position, much against the will of the mostly white townsfolk.
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