I've been trying to decide if I'm up to viewing the new and highly acclaimed film, "The Power of the Dog," featuring among others Benedict Cumberbatch in what reviewers say may be his finest performance.
Film philistine that I am, my preference is for movies that have upbeat endings --- life is sorrowful enough as it is --- and "The Power of the Dog" is lacking that.
But back in 1912 when another "western" came to Chariton, I'd not have had the choice. Chariton ministers and the management of the Temple Theatre --- working in cahoots --- would have made the decision for me and showings of "The James Boys in Missouri" were cancelled even though well advertised beforehand.
Here's how the cancellation was reported in The Chariton Leader of January 18, 1912: "At the courteous request of some of the preachers in Chariton, Hatcher & Dewey cancelled the exhibition of the James brothers' picture advertised for last Monday evening. While the managers did not consider the picture objectional in any way, it has been their policy to run a picture show to which even the clergy could not object, and the friendly interest of ministers in kind suggestions about running the show, so that they cannot object to their members attending it, is much appreciated by Hatcher & Dewey."
It's doubtful that Hatcher & Dewey were that appreciative, but certainly had no interest in crossing swords with Chariton's preachers.
The film in question had been produced in Michigan, of all places, during 1908 and still was circulating widely --- not necessarily because of its quality but rather the controversy it generated.
This had nothing to do with sex or gratuitous nudity, but instead with the doubtful moral example a film about outlaws was thought to offer young America. Preachers were outraged. A number of government entities enforced bans. Appetites for the film were whetted.
Sadly, we'll most likely never be able to judge for ourselves. "The James Boys in Missouri" has vanished entirely.
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