Mystery Ranch  (1932)

Theatrical Release Information:
Mystery Ranch

The comedic sidekick is shockingly done away with in this unusual and highly atmospheric Western from Fox. George O'Brien, of Sunrise (1927) fame, stars as Bob Sanborn, an Arizona ranger assigned to quell a reign of terror instigated by Paradise Valley rancher Henry Steele (Charles Middleton), who employs a band of Apaches to prey on his neighbors. Obviously insane, Steele has a penchant for killing not only his enemies but also defenseless animals. Masquerading as a cowboy, Bob manages to gain access to Steele's ranch where he encounters lovely Jane Emory (Cecilia Parker), the daughter of Steele's late partner whom the clearly mad rancher has lured into his lair. When Bob learns that Steele is planning to force Jane into marriage, the ranger telegraphs for assistance in the form of cockney jockey Artie Brower (Forrester Harvey), whose riding skills and quick wit save Bob from being mauled by Steele's giant servant Muto (Noble Johnson). Although down, Steele is not quite out and the insane rancher manages to kill Artie before committing a spectacular suicide. ~ Hans J. Wollstein, All Movie Guide