Madonna of the Desert (1945)

Its poetic title aside, Republic’s Madonna of the Desert is a formula murder mystery with an occasional surprise or two. The titular madonna is a priceless statue owned by wealthy rancher Joe Salinas (Don Castle). Crooked Nick Julian (Sheldon Leonard) intends to steal the statue, enlisting the aid of the lovely Monica Dale (Lynne Roberts). Meanwhile, another team of crooks headed by Tony French (Don Barry) plans to beat Julian to the punch. Ah, but it said that the madonna has miraculous powers which will melt even the most larcenous of hearts. Under the influence of the "little lady," Monica and Tony mend their ways and fall in love. Unfortunately, Nick and the other crooks manage to resist the madonna’s peculiar charms, leading to a typically violent Republic Pictures climax.

1945, B&W, 60 minutes