The Beast of Hollow Mountain

The Beast of Hollow Mountain (1956)

Synopsis

The Beast of Hollow Mountain deals with the efforts of a pair of young ranchers in Mexico, to unravel the mystery of the disappearance of their cattle, ravished by a pre-historical monster. …

Review of The Beast of Hollow Mountain

I have to admit, there’s a warm spot in my heart for The Beast of Hollow Mountain.  The first two-thirds of the mountain play like a Western movie set in South America.  There’s conflict over missing cattle, and a beautiful woman.  In the background of the movie, however, is the titular Beast.  The audience presumes it to be behind the disappearance of the cattle, and even some people.  But it’s not until the end of the meeting that the actually sees it.

The acting is okay, but not great.  The cinematography and pace are fine, and the main leads do a good job.  Little Panchito is appropriately cute, and tugs heartstrings in the right places.  The 3D animated Beast, when actually seen, is quite good.  Not counting the “rubber boots” that are supposed to be its feet.  In all, I rate The Beast of Hollow Mountain 3 stars out of 5.

Cast of characters

• Jimmy Ryan (Guy Madison, Hell Commandos).  Our protagonist, an American cowboy trying to build a successful ranch in Mexico.
• Sarita (Patricia Medina, The Three Musketeers 1948).  The beautiful senorita that Jimmy falls in love with.  A kind, compassionate woman as well, who looks after Panchito and his inebriate father Pancho.  She’s already engaged to …
• Enrique Rios (Eduardo Noriega, The In-Laws).  The villain of the story.  He determines to drive his business rivals out of Mexico.  And the fact that Sarita returns Jimmy’s affections makes it easier for him to dislike them.  And drive them out of business by hook or crook.
• Felipe Sanchez (Carlos Rivas, The King and I, The Black Scorpion).  Jimmy’s partner.
• Don Pedro (Julio Villarreal, Christopher Columbus 1943).  Sarita’s father, who (unwillingly) approves of his daughter’s engagement.  Since Felipe owns & controls everything in the town.  Except Jimmy and Felipe, that is.
• Panchito (Mario Navarro, The Magnificent 7).  The far-too-cute little boy, who keeps needing rescuing.  Especially after his father disappears into the swamp, where the cattle keep vanishing.
• Pancho (Pascual García Peña).  Panchito’s father, the town drunk.  The recent death of his wife has driven him to drink.  Despite this, Jimmy gives him a second chance by hiring him and his son.  Pancho is grateful … and sadly, his loyalty leads to his death.