Although this film has a top notch cast, it plays like a B western. John Wayne had experience doing those. He plays his role well as Roy Glennister. Even though surrounded by talent, like Marlene Dietrich and Randolph Scott, he holds his own. He isn’t a presence in this film; that happened years later. He receives third billing in this movie. Every major actor, loses out to Harry Carey, a veteran of westerns. He steals the show as Al Dextry, a prospector working a claim with Roy Glennister.
Roy Glennister and Al Dextry are being financed by Cherry Malotte, (Marlene Dietrich), a saloon dancer. They are doing their best, until Alex McNamara, (Randolph Scott), a corrupt commissioner, challenges their claim. Al Dextry drives him off with a shotgun. McNamara later comes back with a judge, who holds up the claim. The title to the mine is hidden away in a safe. Glennister and some friends decide to break into the bank, and steal the safe. They make their getaway, and the sheriff spots them. Commissioner McNamara has been hiding in the shadows watching. He sees the sheriff, and shoots him dead. Wayne’s character is suspected, but the truth is exposed about the commissioner. John Wayne and Randolph Scott get into a knock down drag out, with Marlene Dietrich cheering on the Duke. The good guy wins the fight, and the heart of Cherry Malotte.
The Spoilers is an enjoyable film. The interesting thing is it has two men in Randolph Scott and John Wayne, who made their fortune, playing, for the most part good guys in westerns. Marlene Dietrich plays a mostly comic role in Cherry Malotte. She was one of the most famous actresses in Hollywood, at the time of this film’s release. Her main acting was dramatic, but she can comfortably do comedy. This film wouldn’t be complete without Harry Carey’s presence. He’s surrounded by tremendous acting talent, and steals the show. This acting ensemble is slightly unusual for a western, but it works, making it watchable film.