In Old California
In Old California
Boston pharmacist Tom Craig comes to Sacramento, where he runs afoul of local political boss Britt Dawson, who exacts protection payment from the citizenry. Dawson frames Craig with poisoned medicine, but Craig redeems himself during a Gold Rush epidemic.
Mister Arn reviewedJuly 5, 2025
“In Old California” casts John Wayne as a Boston pharmacist who arrives in Sacramento on the cusp of the Gold Rush. Here, he trades his cowboy hat for a more refined persona, but still carries the moral authority and physical presence that would define his later roles. The story follows a familiar arc: a principled outsider takes on local corruption and gradually wins the town’s respect. It’s solid, if formulaic, and while not essential viewing, it’s worth a look for those interested in Wayne’s earlier films.