‘Tall in the Saddle’: Buddy Comedy in Spurs

Gabby’s and the Duke’s characters handle the chaos in Santa Inez.

Comedy in spades: Dave (George "Gabby" Hayes, L) and Rocklin (John Wayne), in “Tall in the Saddle.” RKO Radio Pictures

NR | 1h 27m | Drama, Western | 1944

“Tall in the Saddle” (1944) is more than just a Western. Of course, it’s got all the trappings of a rugged oater with dusty trails, suspicious townsfolk, and the unmistakable silhouette of John Wayne riding tall. But the film’s first act plays like a buddy comedy in chaps.