Zeus

Writers:

John K. Butler (story), Barry Shipman (screenplay)

Stars:

Stephen McNally, Peggie Castle, Robert Vaughn

 

This wide-screen Republic western is yet another retelling of the James Brothers saga--albeit one with a few unexpected twists. This time, Jesse (Henry Brandon) and Frank (Douglas Kennedy) are supporting characters, while the film's dramatic weight is carried by Jesse's (fictional) friend and fellow outlaw Vic Rodell (Stephen McNally). After one holdup too many, Vic decides to retire from the robbery biz and settle down with his fiancee Paula Collins (Peggie Castle). It so happens that Paula's brother is another ex-James gang member, Bob Ford (Robert Vaughan). In exchange for full pardons, Vic and Bob agree to betray Jesse and Frank and bring them to justice, dead or alive. This may well be the only American film in which "dirty little coward" Bob Ford, the man who ultimately plugs Jesse in the back, is depicted sympathetically.