By 1950, Republic Pictures had eased into more adult-oriented Western fare and California Passage packs quite a punch. The usual Republic benefits of fast-paced direction and top-of-the-line stunt work is of course much in evidence, but the real surprise here is the above-average performances. Especially the supporting cast is allowed to shine, including Charles Kemper as a no-nonsense sheriff and Estelita Rodriguez, who, for once, leaves her kittenish south-of-the-border comic relief behind to offer a straightforward portrayal of a grieving saloon girl. The denouement has Jim Davis chasing Adele Mara and little Peter Miles through a fog-bound wilderness and remains as tense and exciting as it much have appeared back in December of 1950 when California Passage first hit local theater screens.
by Hans J. Wollstein
review
