Film vs Film
Select two cult films to compare side by side.
Spook Ranch Synopsis
Bill Bangs and his Negro valet, George Washington Black, stray into a mining town and are arrested when they attempt to steal something to eat. The sheriff promises them their freedom if they solve the mystery of a haunted house near the town. Bill agrees, the sheriff makes him a deputy, and he and George go to the house, quickly discovering that it is being used as the hideout for a gang of outlaws, led by Don Ramies, who are trying to find the location of a ranch owner's gold mine. Bill foils the plans of the outlaws, brings Ramies to justice, and wins the love of the rancher's daughter.
The Great Shadow Synopsis
Jim McDonald, the foreman of a shipbuilding plant and head of the labor union, strives to combat the anarchistic propaganda being put forth by Klimoff, the leader of a Bolshevik gang whose goal is to disrupt the country with strikes and anarchy. Despite McDonald's efforts, a strike is called, resulting in chaos. McDonald's child is knocked down by runaway horses abandoned by their striking driver, and dies. Mob scenes take place in America, as well as in Russia. Eventually, the unrest is quelled with an armistice called between Capital and Labor for a year, during which time wages are to be increased to reflect the cost of living, and leaders are to work out a common plan for their mutual advantage. The strikers now realize that they have been pawns of the Bolsheviks and call off the strike, agreeing to the plan.
"Spook Ranch" holds a slight edge in general audience appreciation, but "The Great Shadow" offers its own unique cult appeal.
Suggested Watch:
Spook RanchBoth films share