After two years touring with a circus, former silent star Tom Mix returned to movies to star in several for Universal in 1932 and 1933. The first of these was Destry Rides Again, based on the novel by Max Brand but rather different from the later film versions. Here, daredevil cowboy Tom Destry (Mix) is framed for attempted murder and sent to prison after he is convicted on the perjured testimony of four witnesses. Pardoned, he returns to town, apparently a much-changed man: no longer the dashing fellow with a devil-may-care attitude, he seems frail and sickly. Will Tom be able to uncover the criminal behind his sufferings? Will he win the girl (Claudia Dell)? Good humor, good action, engaging tricks (with horse Tony), and a likeable personality make for an entertaining talkie debut for Mix.

  Recommended. Otto finds this one pleasing enough to relax.

Movie 365 for 2021.