(1941)
2
Craig Butler
Though more money was spent on Down Mexico Way than on the standard Gene Autry singing oater, it's still not what one would consider a great movie. Oh, it's an okay way to pass the time, and fans of the star will find nothing to complain about. He's the same as always here, a genial, appealing presence with an easy way with a song and an ability to be both gentleman and fist fighter. And as usual, Autry is supported by sidekick $Smiley Burnette, whose comic ability may be a matter of taste but who is as much a part of the Autry landscape and his horse. The plot, however, is weaker than usual, a bit of nonsense that exists merely to provide a central conflict, an exotic setting and the chance for some songs. There's very little action until the last reel; the climactic chase is quite good, but one wants more than this one sequence. The dialogue is at times painful, and the romantic subplot just adds padding. Harold Huber is a bit much as something like a Mexican equivalent to Burnette, but Fay McKenzie is fine support, and Sidney Blackmer is quite good. Autry's musical contributions are buttressed by some nice support from the Herrera Sisters, which provides good contrast.
cast-crew for Down Mexico Way on AllMovie
Down Mexico Way (1941)
