Gun Crazy

On a stormy evening, fourteen-year-old Bart Tare impulsively breaks a window at a hardware store and steals a gun. This reckless act immediately leads to his apprehension by Sheriff Boston, setting off a chain of events that will shape Bart's future.

During Bart's court hearing, his older sister, Ruby, passionately defends him before Judge Willoughby. She recounts a traumatic childhood incident where Bart accidentally shot a chick with a BB gun to emphasize that he is not inherently violent.

Bart's friends, Dave Allister and Clyde Boston, the sheriff's son, provide additional context during the hearing. They share stories of how Bart refused to kill a mountain lion for a bounty, showcasing his marksmanship and aversion to violence.

Just before Ruby's wedding, she makes a heartfelt plea for Bart to stay with her. However, despite her wishes, the judge decides to send Bart to reform school, symbolizing the struggles of their family bond.

Years later, Bart returns to town after completing his time in reform school. He reconnects with Dave, now a newspaper journalist, and Clyde, who has become the sheriff, sharing stories of his journey including joining the Army.

The trio visits a carnival where Bart witnesses the impressive sharpshooter Annie Laurie Starr perform. After he wins a shooting competition against her, Bart secures a job with the carnival owner, Packett, marking a pivotal moment in his life.

As Bart and Laurie grow closer, their burgeoning romance ignites jealousy in Packett, who harbors dark secrets about Laurie. Tension escalates when past incidents resurface, revealing Laurie's history of violence.

A confrontation between Bart, Laurie, and Packett takes a dangerous turn. To defend Laurie, Bart fires a warning shot, prompting the couple to flee after Packett dismisses them, marking a significant turning point in their lives together.

Driven by emotion, Bart and Laurie quickly marry and embark on their honeymoon. However, happiness is short-lived as financial strains soon appear, challenging their relationship and dreams.

Laurie convinces Bart to enter a life of crime, leading them down a thrilling yet dangerous path. Their criminal activities escalate despite Bart's lingering reservations about their choices and the impact on their lives.

The couple meticulously plans a robbery at the Armour Meat Company, targeting its payroll office. Tragedy strikes when Laurie's boss, Miss Sifert, triggers the alarm and is fatally shot by Laurie in a desperate moment.

Following the violent incident, Bart is horrified to learn about the deaths of Miss Sifert and a security guard. Laurie's confession of her past homicide further complicates their fragile relationship and moral standing.

With the FBI closing in on them due to their criminal activities, Bart and Laurie take refuge at Ruby's house. Their attempt to evade capture grows desperate as they find themselves cornered by acquaintances Clyde and Dave.

As they hide in the woods after their car breaks down, tensions boil over when Clyde and Dave locate them. In a moment of conflict, Bart is forced to make a tragic decision, resulting in a confrontation with Laurie.

In a haunting climax, Bart shoots Laurie in desperation before he himself succumbs to gunfire from Clyde and Dave. The tragic end leaves them grappling with a bittersweet memory of love, crime, and loss.