California (1927 film)

California is a 1927 American silent Western film directed by W. S. Van Dyke and starring Tim McCoy, Dorothy Sebastian, and Tom O'Brien. The film is based on a story by Mary Roberts Rinehart and tells the romanticized tale of California's transition from Spanish territory to U.S. statehood during the 1840s.

The plot centers around Don Juan (Tim McCoy), a Spanish nobleman who initially resists the American takeover but eventually falls in love with an American woman, Lupe (Dorothy Sebastian). Their romance unfolds against the backdrop of political and social upheaval, showcasing the clash between cultures and the struggle for control of California.

The film features action sequences, including battles and horseback chases, typical of the Western genre during the silent era. While the film presents a particular interpretation of California history, it was a popular production of its time and reflects the historical narratives prevalent in the 1920s. It showcases the landscapes of California, although likely not filmed entirely on location due to the production requirements of the time.

The film is considered to be in the public domain due to copyright expiration, meaning it is widely available for viewing and distribution. Its historical accuracy is debated, with some historians criticizing its simplified and romanticized portrayal of events.