“The Return of Draw Egan” is a 1916 American silent Western film directed by William S. Hart and featuring Hart in the lead role. The movie tells the story of Draw Egan, a notorious outlaw who has been released from prison after serving time for a crime he did not commit. Egan sets out to clear his name and track down the real culprit.
Upon his release, Egan finds that his reputation as an outlaw has made it difficult for him to lead a normal life. He is constantly hounded by the law and treated with suspicion by the townspeople. Egan’s only friend is a saloon owner named Kate (played by Louise Glaum), who believes in his innocence.
Egan’s investigation leads him to a corrupt sheriff named Larkin (played by J.P. Lockney), who was responsible for framing him. Egan confronts Larkin and a gunfight ensues, resulting in Larkin’s death. Egan is wounded in the shootout and taken care of by Kate.
While recovering from his injuries, Egan falls in love with Kate and decides to turn his life around. He gives up his outlaw ways and becomes a rancher, hoping to start a new life with Kate.
“The Return of Draw Egan” is a classic Western movie that explores themes of redemption, justice, and loyalty. William S. Hart’s performance as Draw Egan is highly praised and the film is considered one of the best examples of early silent Westerns.
Directors:
William S. Hart
Writer:
C. Gardner Sullivan
Stars:
William S. Hart, Margery Wilson, Robert McKim
