The Tulsa Kid Ending Explained: A protegee of notorious outlaw Montana (Beery), young Tom Benton decides to stay on the good side of the Law upon reaching maturity. Directed by George Sherman, this 1940 western film stars Don 'Red' Barry (Tom Benton aka Tulsa Kid), alongside Noah Beery as Montana Smith, Luana Walters as Mary Wallace, David Durand as Bob Wallace. With a 6.5/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.

What Happens at the End of The Tulsa Kid?

A protegee of notorious outlaw Montana (Beery), young Tom Benton decides to stay on the good side of the Law upon reaching maturity. Montana, however, has no such inclination to reform, the result being a climactic gun duel between the ageing gunman and his former pupil.

George Sherman's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Don 'Red' Barry (Tom Benton aka Tulsa Kid)'s journey. Montana, however, has no such inclination to reform, the result being a climactic gun duel between the ageing gunman and his former pupil.

How Does Don 'Red' Barry (Tom Benton aka Tulsa Kid)'s Story End?

  • Don 'Red' Barry: Don 'Red' Barry's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
  • Noah Beery (Montana Smith): Noah Beery's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
  • Luana Walters (Mary Wallace): Luana Walters's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

What Does the Ending of The Tulsa Kid Mean?

The Tulsa Kid's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Don 'Red' Barry may feel rushed. George Sherman's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.