Ray Lum 1972
Bill Ferris's *Ray Lum (1972)* is a brief but vivid portrait of one of America's most colorful figures—a mule skinner, auctioneer, and livestock trader whose legendary reputation stretched from the cotton fields of Mississippi to the wilds of Texas and beyond.
Director: Bill Ferris
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ray Lum (1972) about?
This short documentary celebrates Ray Lum, a mule skinner and auctioneer whose honest dealings made him a folk hero across the American South and Southwest. His story unfolds as a tribute to the unassuming grit of the Old West, blending personal history with the rugged charm of a man whose name became synonymous with fairness.
Who directed Ray Lum?
Director information is not available.
Who stars in Ray Lum?
The film stars Ray Lum himself, a man whose larger-than-life reputation preceded him in trading circles from Mississippi to Texas.
Is Ray Lum (1972) worth watching?
While short in runtime, *Ray Lum* offers a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era and a man whose integrity stood out in a rough-and-tumble world. Its nostalgic tone and authentic subject matter make it a compelling watch for fans of Americana and Western history, even without a formal rating.
How long is Ray Lum?
The film runs 18 minutes in length.
About Ray Lum (1972) — A Snapshot of America's Last Great Frontier Gentleman
Bill Ferris's *Ray Lum (1972)* is a brief but vivid portrait of one of America's most colorful figures—a mule skinner, auctioneer, and livestock trader whose legendary reputation stretched from the cotton fields of Mississippi to the wilds of Texas and beyond. This 18-minute documentary captures the essence of Lum's larger-than-life persona, highlighting his honesty, charm, and unshakable integrity as a man known from Texas to Mexico for fair dealing and gentlemanly conduct. Through Ferris's lens, Lum emerges as a living relic of the Old West, a bridge between eras whose story resonates with themes of grit, tradition, and the unyielding spirit of the American frontier.
Set against the backdrop of the Deep South and the rustic auction yards where Lum plied his trade, the film exudes a warm, nostalgic atmosphere that feels both intimate and expansive. It's a snapshot of a man whose influence defied geography, proving that authenticity and character could leave a lasting mark even in an era of rapid change. *Ray Lum* isn't just a documentary—it's a tribute to an American original whose legacy still echoes through the trading posts and dusty roads he once roamed.