Search - Gene Autry Collection - South of the Border on DVD

An Autry Classic !

peterfromkanata | Kanata, Ontario Canada | 05/27/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"1939 was an incredible year for movies, even the so-called "B movies". Many consider "South of the Border" to be the absolute peak of Gene Autry's Republic films. It was a huge hit, and it is no accident that several other Autry films are set in Mexico.At this point in his career, Gene's popularity was so great that he ranked with the top "A movie" stars at the box office, like Clark Gable, Mickey Rooney and Spencer Tracy--not bad for a singing cowboy ! In this film, Gene never looked better, singing the famous title song, and other numbers as well. He receives fine support from long-time sidekick, Smiley Burnette, Duncan Renaldo ( later, TV's "Cisco Kid" ), two lovely leading ladies, June Storey and Lupita Tovar, and that incredible bundle of teenage talent, Mary Lee.Except for the charisma and star quality of Gene himself, Mary Lee--at least to this reviewer--steals this movie. She was, as they say, a "natural"--a good actress, had a sparkling personality and a terrific singing voice that would have given even Judy Garland a run for her money ! It will always be a mystery to me why Mary Lee--in an age where musicals were so popular--did not become a major star. At least we have her performance in this film--and several other Autry titles--to enjoy.The plot here is a strange mix of romance, comedy, spies, revolutions, submarines--but with Gene and his co-stars on hand, you really don't care if everything makes sense--you are having too much fun !The 64-year old film has been restored beautifully--another winner from Image. If you like Gene Autry and musical westerns, this DVD should have a place of honour in your collection."

Great for Autry fans and film history buffs alike!

J. Winchester | 'Way Out West | 12/16/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"We rented this title (but will purchase it soon). This DVD is amazing. It not only includes a beautifully restored movie, but some fabulous and funny special features. Don't cheat in "Horseplay"! Viewers can also see archival material in "Production Notes" and in the Press Kit.



"South of the Border" is an appealing film, and it's Gene Autry at his best. The modern aspects of the plot make it a little bit of a funky story, but the music more than makes up for that. I have been whistling the songs all day.



Don't miss it."