Texas Tornado was one of a series of films Frankie Darro and Tom Tyler made for the Film Bookings Offices in the last years of the Roaring Twenties. In all, they made 26 films together between 1925 and 1929. Sadly, most of these films have been lost or destroyed. In these movies, Frankie was often seen galloping full speed atop his fierce Shetland pony with his small dog Beans racing as quickly along side the pony. Both Frankie and Tom were remarkable stunt men. It is said that Frankie idolized strongman Tom, and the two worked well together on screen in these popular films.
Texas Tornado is one of the few FBO films available for viewing. The existing footage was found in Europe. The film may have about 10 minutes or so missing, but those missing parts don't really distract from the story.
Texas Tornado moves from beginning to end like a full throttle Tornado. There are hardly any pauses in the action that builds up to its inevitable conclusion. This film has some terrific action, horse riding, and fierce fist fighting as Tom and ten year old Frankie out-ride, outrace and outfight the outlaws who are after oil found on the Briscoe-Martin lands. There are some remarkable stunts, especially the one the two do on a high wire. Frankie was a member of the Flying Johnsons, an aerialist act. Tom was a record setting champion weight lifter as well as a fantastic rider, and stuntman. These fantastic skills help bring this film together to make it enjoyable to watch despite the unfortunate condition of the print.
Texas Tornado is one of the few FBO films available for viewing. The existing footage was found in Europe. The film may have about 10 minutes or so missing, but those missing parts don't really distract from the story.
Texas Tornado moves from beginning to end like a full throttle Tornado. There are hardly any pauses in the action that builds up to its inevitable conclusion. This film has some terrific action, horse riding, and fierce fist fighting as Tom and ten year old Frankie out-ride, outrace and outfight the outlaws who are after oil found on the Briscoe-Martin lands. There are some remarkable stunts, especially the one the two do on a high wire. Frankie was a member of the Flying Johnsons, an aerialist act. Tom was a record setting champion weight lifter as well as a fantastic rider, and stuntman. These fantastic skills help bring this film together to make it enjoyable to watch despite the unfortunate condition of the print.
