Honor of the Range (1934)
A fast-paced Western from the early sound era, directed by Alan James and starring cowboy icon Ken Maynard in a rare dual role. Released by Universal Pictures in April 1934, this 61-minute film delivers classic frontier action with a twist—brotherly betrayal and mistaken identity.
Plot Summary
Ken Maynard plays both Sheriff Ken and his shady twin brother Clem, whose criminal ties threaten the peace of their small town. When Clem conspires with a gang of outlaws led by Rawhide to rob a local business, he gives them the safe’s combination and fakes being tied up during the heist. But when the building catches fire and Clem nearly dies, the truth begins to unravel. The townsfolk, outraged by the sheriff’s inaction, appoint Deputy Boots as acting sheriff and lock Ken up. Meanwhile, Clem escapes and demands his share of the loot, dragging his girlfriend and Mary Turner—the daughter of the robbed businessman—into the outlaw hideout. Ken must escape, clear his name, and restore justice.
Cast Highlights
- Ken Maynard as Sheriff Ken / Clem
- Cecilia Parker as Mary Turner
- Fred Kohler as Rawhide
- Frank Hagney as Deputy Boots
- James A. Marcus, Slim Whitaker, and Franklyn Farnum in supporting roles
- Featuring Tarzan the Wonder Horse, Maynard’s famous equine co-star
Trivia & Fun Facts
- Ken Maynard not only starred but also produced the film through his own company, Ken Maynard Productions Inc.
- The cinematography was handled by Ted D. McCord, who would later shoot The Sound of Music (1965)
- Maynard’s portrayal of both brothers added a layer of complexity rarely seen in B-Westerns of the time
