Let Freedom Ring

Combining Nelson Eddy's fine baritone voice with its message of religious and ethnic tolerance, Let Freedom Ring distinguishes itself as a most unusual western. While boasting its share of bad guys and two-fisted action, this ambitious film delivers a powerful and heartfelt message. The setting is the west circa 1868. The villain is the land grabbing railroad, personified by smooth-talking tycoon Jim Knox (Edward Arnold). Knox finally meets his match, however, when he comes up against leathery rancher Tom Logan (Lional Barrymore) and Logan's Harvard graduate son, Steve (Eddy). Cast in his first "solo" role -- with no singing stars opposite him -- Eddy excels as the prodigal son who returns home to save the day. Directed by Jack Conway and scripted by Ben Hecht (The Front Page), Let Freedom Ring features an array of clever plot twists and rousing songs woven smoothly into the story.