The Shepherd of the Hills 1928
"Your Applause Will Resound Like the Thunder in the Hills!"
Step into the rugged beauty of the Ozark Mountains with *The Shepherd of the Hills* (1928), a timeless Western drama directed by Albert S. Rogell.
Director: Albert S. Rogell
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *The Shepherd of the Hills* (1928) about?
This early Western drama follows David Howitt, a man seeking redemption in the Ozarks after his son once betrayed a mountain girl. As a crippling drought devastates the community, Howitt's pleas for faith are met with skepticism, testing the villagers' hope and his own resolve to make amends.
Who directed *The Shepherd of the Hills*?
The film was directed by Albert S. Rogell, a filmmaker known for blending drama and Western themes in the silent era. His work on this project highlights the stark beauty and emotional depth of rural life in early 20th-century America.
Who stars in *The Shepherd of the Hills*?
The film features Alec B. Francis as the titular Shepherd, alongside John Boles, Molly O'Day, and Matthew Betz, who bring the story's themes of struggle and redemption to life.
Is *The Shepherd of the Hills* (1928) worth watching?
As a silent-era Western with striking visuals and emotional weight, *The Shepherd of the Hills* offers a unique glimpse into early filmmaking. While it may lack modern pacing, its themes of atonement and community resilience make it a rewarding watch for genre enthusiasts and classic film fans.
How long is *The Shepherd of the Hills*?
The film has a runtime of 90 minutes.
About The Shepherd of the Hills (1928) — A Silent Western Masterpiece of Redemption and Drought
Step into the rugged beauty of the Ozark Mountains with *The Shepherd of the Hills* (1928), a timeless Western drama directed by Albert S. Rogell. This silent-era gem follows David Howitt, a mysterious stranger who earns the nickname "The Shepherd" for his quiet wisdom and compassion among the isolated mountain folk. Haunted by a past betrayal that shattered a mountaineer's daughter's life, Howitt seeks redemption as a devastating drought threatens the community with starvation and despair. Torn between doubt and faith, the villagers question his hopeful pleas, leaving the question hanging—can the land heal, or will their spirits wither with the crops?
Atmospheric and emotionally charged, *The Shepherd of the Hills* blends rugged frontier realism with themes of guilt, atonement, and resilience. Starring Alec B. Francis as the gentle outsider, Molly O'Day in a poignant role, and John Boles delivering heartfelt performances, this 90-minute classic captures the raw spirit of early American cinema. Available to stream or download on select platforms, it's a must-watch for fans of vintage Westerns and silent-era storytelling that lingers long after the final frame.