Shadows of the West (1921): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 1921, Shadows of the West is a western film directed by Paul Hurst. “A stupendous action drama” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. California cowpuncher Jim Kern and his pal enlist in the war against Germany and, shortly thereafter, meet Frank Akuri, who has pledged to colonize the United States for his homeland, Japan. While Jim and other white males are fighting in France, Akuri forces Jim's sweetheart Mary to sell her ranch, as she is not able to run it because the only men left, the Japanese, have pledged not to work for the whites. With the ranch, Akuri begins his colony. Mary counters by organizing her society women friends to appeal to Congress against the "yellow menace." When it seems that his plans will be thwarted, Akuri issues orders for the death of Mary and her friends, but Jim and his pal return and rescue them. Akuri then kidnaps Mary and takes her to his apartment, but with the help of Akuri's wronged Japanese lover, Jim learns her whereabouts. He organizes a posse of American Legion locals and rescues Mary just as Akuri is about to murder her. Akuri's group is routed out.

Who’s in it. Shadows of the West stars Pat J. O'Brien as Jim Kern, Hedda Nova as Mary, Virginia Dale as Lucy Norton and Seymour Zeliff as Frank Akuri, among others.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Shadows of the West page.

If you liked it. Fans of Shadows of the West tend to enjoy The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, Django Unchained, Once Upon a Time in the West and For a Few Dollars More.