The Outlaw (1943) Director: Howard Hughes Studio: Republic Pictures Starring: Jack Buetel (Billy the Kid), Jane Russell (Rio McDonald), Walter Huston (Doc Holliday), Thomas Mitchell Release Date: August 18, 1943 Runtime: 95 minutes Format: Black & White | Mono | Sound | Western | Drama Country: United States Language: English Genres: Western | Drama | Biographical | Romance Summary: The Outlaw is a provocative and visually striking Western drama that tells the story of legendary outlaw Billy the Kid and his complicated relationships, especially with the fiery Rio McDonald. Directed and produced by the enigmatic Howard Hughes, the film blends gritty action with melodrama, exploring themes of love, loyalty, and rebellion against law and order. Famous for Jane Russell’s unforgettable screen presence and the film’s controversial publicity campaign, The Outlaw became a landmark for its daring portrayal of sexuality and tension in a classic Western setting. Background: Howard Hughes’ The Outlaw faced a troubled release history due to its risqué content and conflicts with the Motion Picture Production Code. Though completed in 1941, the film was delayed for over two years before reaching theaters, where its provocative marketing fueled public curiosity and box office success. The film helped launch Jane Russell’s career as a Hollywood sex symbol, while Jack Buetel’s portrayal of Billy the Kid offered a sympathetic yet restless outlaw figure. Hughes’ meticulous direction and innovative camera work contributed to the film’s lasting visual impact. Trivia: The film’s delayed release was largely due to censors objecting to Jane Russell’s revealing costumes and the overt sexual tension. Howard Hughes personally supervised many scenes and the film’s extensive publicity campaign, including the famous emphasis on Russell’s bust. Jack Buetel was relatively unknown before this role and was heavily coached by Hughes during filming. The film blends fact and fiction, taking liberties with the historical Billy the Kid legend for dramatic effect. The Outlaw became a cult classic, influencing later Westerns with its mix of sensuality and violence. Its striking cinematography and Hughes’ unorthodox approach made it stand out in the 1940s Western genre. Hashtags: #TheOutlaw #HowardHughes #JaneRussell #BillyTheKid #ClassicWestern #1940sCinema #WesternDrama #HollywoodHistory #CultClassic #RepublicPictures #VintageWestern #IconicWestern #ClassicMovies #OldHollywood #WesternLegend #FilmHistory