In Old Arizona

The original "Cisco Kid" western that set off a run of knockoffs in the early days of cinema, IN OLD ARIZONA is historically notable for a number of reasons. An early "talkie" filmed in 1929, it was the first western with sound to emerge from a major studio, Fox Pictures, making it a revolutionary breakthrough with its cleverly-hidden microphones masked by real rocks and shrubs. Warner Baxter received an Academy Award for his portrayal of the Cisco Kid, the "Robin Hood of the West" who was based on the character conceived by O. Henry. Originally cast in the role, director Raoul Walsh (WHITE HEAT) had to drop out of the project after a car accident involving a jackrabbit left him with his signature eye patch, which he wore for the rest of his life. The Cisco Kid and his rival, Sgt. Mickey Dunne (Edmund Lowe), are both in love with the fetching Tonia Maria (Dorothy Burgess LADY FOR A NIGHT), whose beauty is equal only to her trickery. She soon betrays the Kid to the Sergeant, and Cisco turns ruthless in his quest for revenge, plotting to ensnare Tonia in a trap that was meant for him.