Robin Rogers or is it Roy Hood
The Civil War is over and Ambrose Ballard (Cy Kendall) has declared martial law so to scare ranchers out of Texas, except someone known as the Night Rider is causing Ballard's men problems by standing up for the ranchers. When Ballard is ousted from his position not only does it lead to the end of martial law but also Roy (Roy Rogers) being elected to the position of Sheriff. But Ballard isn't finished and not only gets himself back in the power of position but also re-introduces martial law whilst sentencing Gabby to be executed for a murder he didn't commit. Fortunately the man Ballard hires to do his dirty work is double crossed and decides to help Roy to bring Ballard to justice.
"Robin Hood of the Pecos" is not your typical Roy Rogers' western despite seeing him cast alongside Gabby Hayes and also getting to sing a song or two. Nope "Robin Hood of the Pecos" actually has a storyline surrounding a corrupt, double crossing official using his position to fill his own pocket. And in truth compared to some of Roy Rogers' westerns this one has a more engaging storyline which even has moments of darkness as we witness Col. Davis being shot in cold.
Okay so may be I am bigging up "Robin Hood of the Pecos" more than it deserves because it does still have plenty of the typical comedy and quirky characters. Plus it features a lot of patriotism with Roy at one point swearing allegiance to the flag with the words even appearing on the screen as if maybe they wanted the young boys and girls who watched this to join in.
What this all boils down to is that "Robin Hood of the Pecos" almost feels like a forerunner to the Roy Rogers' movies many remember as whilst it has some of the familiar elements such as comedy and singing it has a darker more dramatic tone than those which would come later.
