The Desperado

The Desperado

Year: 1954

Runtime: 80 mins

Language: English

Director: Thomas Carr

Western

Sam Garrett is an outlaw who lives by the rule ‘only a fool sticks his neck out for anyone.’ He warns fellow fugitive Tom Cameron, pursued by the Texas State Police known as the ‘Bluebellies’ in the 1870s. When Cameron tries to surrender, Garrett breaks his advice and is framed for a murder by a jealous rival over his girl.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The Desperado (1954)

Trace every key event in The Desperado (1954) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Sheriff Steve Upton's Authority in Red Valley

Sheriff Steve Upton strives to uphold the law in the small town of Red Valley, Utah, setting the stage for the conflict. His efforts are disrupted when he leaves the town on an unspecified trip, leaving local security vulnerable. The town relies heavily on his presence to maintain order.

1863 Red Valley, Utah
2

Bank Robbery During Sheriff's Absence

While Sheriff Upton is away, the town's bank is robbed in a carefully coordinated plan. The robbery is secretly orchestrated by corrupt banker Stanley Clanton and Uncle Willie McLeod, with the involvement of ruthless gunman Jack Lester. The event highlights the corruption affecting Red Valley.

During Upton's absence Red Valley bank
3

Introduction of Cheyenne Rogers

Cheyenne Rogers arrives in town and is seen riding a horse. He visits the stable and then heads to the saloon for a drink. Cheyenne was initially hired to assist in the bank robbery but arrived too late, suggesting a conflicted or complex background.

After bank robbery Stable and saloon, Red Valley
4

Allison Recognizes Cheyenne

Allison McLeod, daughter of Uncle Willie, recognizes Cheyenne's horse at the stable, indicating a personal connection. Cheyenne then goes to the saloon, which establishes his presence and possible links to the town's underworld or moral ambiguity.

Shortly after Cheyenne's arrival Stable and saloon, Red Valley
5

Cheyenne Seeks Legitimate Work

Realizing the consequences of his past or the need for redemption, Cheyenne finds a legitimate job breaking broncos at a ranch. This step signifies his attempt to move away from crime and establish a new life within the community.

Following his arrival Ranch outside Red Valley
6

Return of Sheriff Steve and Cheyenne’s Reconciliation

Sheriff Steve Upton returns to town, greeted happily by Cheyenne, indicating an old friendship. However, Cheyenne's past is soon revealed as Lester exposes his former outlaw activities, turning the town against him.

After Cheyenne's employment Red Valley
7

Bank Robbery and Cheyenne’s Arrest

Jack Lester, with his sidekick Nitro, pulls off another bank robbery. Cheyenne is accused of complicity and, along with Nitro, is captured and sentenced to hang. Their arrest highlights the town's suspicion and the ongoing criminal conflicts.

Post robbery Red Valley jail
8

Rescue of Cheyenne and Nitro

Sheriff Steve intervenes to free Cheyenne and Nitro from jail, risking his own safety. During this event, Steve is also imprisoned, illustrating the town’s chaos and the stakes involved in restoring justice.

During the attempted jailbreak Red Valley jail
9

Allison Seeks Help and Cheyenne’s Support

Allison McLeod goes to the Countess for help, and despite her own feelings, the Countess assists her, showing her loyalty. Meanwhile, Cheyenne secretly gives Steve a gun through the jail window, aiding his efforts to set things right.

After the jailbreak Saloon and jail, Red Valley
10

Uncle Willie’s Gunfight and Guilt

Uncle Willie, feeling guilty about his role in the bank robbery, ends up shooting Stanley Clanton during a gunfight. His actions indicate a moment of redemption or remorse, impacting the town’s sense of justice.

Following Uncle Willie’s guilt Red Valley
11

Wedding of Allison and Cheyenne

Allison and Cheyenne get married beside her father's jail cell, symbolizing their commitment and the culmination of their personal journey. The wedding signifies hope and reconciliation amid ongoing conflicts.

After uncle Willie’s act of redemption Jailhouse, Red Valley
12

Uncle Willie’s Confession and Imprisonment

Uncle Willie admits to assisting Cheyenne in the robbery, a confession that will likely lead to at least a 20-year prison sentence. This reveals the consequences of his guilt and the town’s pursuit of justice.

After the wedding Red Valley jail
13

Honeymoon and Reflection

Cheyenne and Allison leave for their honeymoon, symbolizing their new beginning together. Uncle Willie remains in custody, contemplating the costs of his past actions and seeking redemption through his sacrifices.

Post wedding Leaving Red Valley

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 05:13

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The Desperado Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Desperado

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Desperado

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The Desperado Spoiler-Free Summary

More About The Desperado

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