Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: United States
A Deep Dive into the 1935 Vision of Ray Taylor
As we revisit the 1935 masterpiece The Ivory-Handled Gun, we are struck by the atmospheric immersion that Ray Taylor achieves throughout The Ivory-Handled Gun. Exploring the nuances of the human condition with Western flair, it solidifies Ray Taylor's reputation as a master of the craft.
In The Ivory-Handled Gun, Ray Taylor pushes the boundaries of conventional narrative. The film's unique approach to its subject matter has sparked endless debates and interpretations among cinephiles and critics alike.
In this work, Ray Taylor explores the intersection of Western and United States cultural identity. The meticulous attention to detail suggests a deep-seated commitment to pushing the boundaries of the medium, ensuring that The Ivory-Handled Gun remains a relevant topic of study for Western enthusiasts.
| Cinematography | Noir-Inspired |
| Soundtrack | Experimental |
| Editing | Elliptical |
| Art Direction | Expressionist |
Visualizing the convergence of Ray Taylor's style and the core Western narrative.
Buck Ward and the Wolverine Kid, who each own one of the ivory handled guns, continue the feud started by their fathers. When Pat Moore is killed, Bill Ward recognizes the bullet as coming from the ivory handled gun of the Kid. Buck and sidekick Pike then start out after the Kid.
Decades after its release, The Ivory-Handled Gun remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Ray Taylor's status as a master of the craft in United States and beyond.