Silver Lode (1954) is a tense psychological Western directed by Allan Dwan, unfolding almost in real time. The story centers on Dan Ballard (John Payne), a respected citizen of the town of Silver Lode who is preparing to marry Rose Evans (Lizabeth Scott).
The celebration is interrupted when Marshal Ned McCarthy (Dan Duryea) arrives with three deputies, accusing Ballard of murder and robbery. Though Ballard maintains his innocence, McCarthy manipulates the townspeople, turning suspicion against him. As Ballard flees to uncover the truth, Rose and her friend Dolly (Dolores Moran) stand by him.
The film explores mob mentality, corruption, and how quickly trust can collapse under pressure, all while delivering classic Western suspense.
Main Cast:
John Payne as Dan Ballard
Lizabeth Scott as Rose Evans
Dan Duryea as Marshal McCarthy
Dolores Moran as Dolly
Emile Meyer as Sheriff Wooley
Robert Warwick as Judge Cranston
