Proud Rebel

Not Up To Shane

I watched this movie last night and though a good family movie with very good actors and actress, it reminded me too much of Shane. The story was about a fathers love for his son and what he would do to restore his sons voice. I thought this was a little overdone, but that is just my opinion. Olivea de Havilland plays the female rancher who comes to love them both. I am a romantic so like happy endings and was not dissapointed. A good movie for the time you want a family movie for all ages. Don't expect it to have the power of Shane. January 30, 2008

A Family Western

This is the story of a Southern father, played by Alan Ladd, who is heading North (just after the Civil War) to find medical treatment for his mute son, played by David Ladd. The boy underwent some trauma during the war that has left him unable to speak. When the elder Ladd gets into trouble, farmwoman Olivia de Havilland bails him out with the judge, leading to his working on her farm to pay off the debt. She's having trouble with her neighbour Dean Jagger, so she needs all the help she can get. The Proud Rebel is a well made family western, with a little more emphasis on the family than on the western. Since they were, of course, a real life father and son, the Ladds have an excellent, real chemistry together on screen as well, with much quiet emotion. The younger Ladd is especially good in his role, delivering a very natural, believable performance. As the independent farmwoman, Olivia de Havilland may not seem to be the likely choice, but she is terrific in her characterization, bringing a mixture of warmth and toughness to her, as well as some good chemistry with both the Ladds. Director Michael Curtiz balances the action with the family relationships and sentiment, and the result is a film well worth viewing. August 5, 2001

the proud rebel

My husband and I went to a theater in Toas New Mexico. That was in August of 1958. We enjoyed the movie very much. I'm sure we will enjoy having it to watch again. March 12, 2000

A fine, sensitive movie

Proud Rebel is a fine story. Alan Ladd and his son are perfect in their roles; the senior Ladd bringing to Rebel much of the same characterization he brought to "Shane." A good watch, and worth having in a home library. February 13, 2000

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