As the Sun Went Down 1919
"It's the story of a bad girl who is bigger and better and finer that most of the girls you ever saw."
In the rugged, sun-scorched landscapes of a 19th-century California Gold Rush mining camp, "As the Sun Went Down (1919)" weaves a compelling tale of defiance and redemption. Directed by E.
Director: E. Mason Hopper
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is As the Sun Went Down (1919) about?
This silent-era Western drama follows the story of "Colonel Billy," a fearsome female gunfighter in a California mining camp, whose tough reputation and independent spirit set her apart. When an actor and his family arrive in town, their arrival sets off a chain of events that tests Billy's resolve and exposes the hypocrisy of the townsfolk. The film explores themes of redemption, gender, and the harsh realities of life on the frontier.
Who directed As the Sun Went Down?
E. Mason Hopper directed this 1919 silent Western drama. Known for his work in early cinema, Hopper brought a keen eye for storytelling and visual composition to the film.
Who stars in As the Sun Went Down?
The film features Edith Storey as "Colonel Billy," with Lew Cody, Zasu Pitts, Harry Northrup, F.A. Turner, and Frances Burnham rounding out the main cast.
Is As the Sun Went Down (1919) worth watching?
As a silent-era Western, "As the Sun Went Down" offers a fascinating glimpse into early filmmaking and the social dynamics of the Gold Rush era. While it may not boast modern pacing, its themes of defiance and redemption, coupled with strong performances, make it a compelling watch for fans of classic cinema or historical dramas.
How long is As the Sun Went Down?
The runtime for As the Sun Went Down (1919) is 50 minutes.
As the Sun Went Down (1919): A Defiant Woman's Tale in the Wild West — Full Movie Info
In the rugged, sun-scorched landscapes of a 19th-century California Gold Rush mining camp, "As the Sun Went Down (1919)" weaves a compelling tale of defiance and redemption. Directed by E. Mason Hopper, this silent-era drama plunges into the gritty world of Rattlesnake Gulch, where the hardened men of the camp tremble before the legendary gunfighter known as "Colonel Billy"—a woman whose reputation for toughness and independence precedes her. While the townsfolk whisper about her past, the arrival of an actor, his wife, and a preacher injects a spark of chaos and humor into this otherwise lawless setting. As alliances shift and secrets unravel, the story explores themes of judgment, gender roles, and the fleeting nature of power in a world where survival is as unpredictable as the desert winds.
E. Mason Hopper crafts a visually striking narrative, blending the raw energy of a Western frontier with the emotional depth of a drama. Edith Storey delivers a tour-de-force performance as the enigmatic "Colonel Billy," a character who defies expectations and challenges the rigid norms of her time. With a stellar cast including Lew Cody, Zasu Pitts, and Zasu Pitts, the film captures the spirit of an era where legends were forged in the heat of conflict and the harsh light of scrutiny. Atmospheric and thought-provoking, this silent classic offers a glimpse into the untold stories of the Gold Rush, where every shadow hides a tale waiting to be told.