What Happens at the End of Drift Fence?

Although Larry "Buster" Crabbe earns top billing, the hero of Drift Fence is former Western star Tom Keene as Jim Travis, who, at a rodeo, meets city dweller Jim Traft, who has come west to erect a fence that will prevent Clay Jackson from continuing his cattle rustling business. A tough Western type, Travis suggests that he impersonate Traft and the building of the fence soon begins. But Travis is opposed by Slinger Dunn and his family, whose small ranch will suffer from the division of the land. A romance between Travis and Slinger's sister, Paula, paves the way for a meeting of the minds, however, and Slinger switches sides completely upon learning that Travis is a Texas Ranger in disguise.

Otho Lovering's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Buster Crabbe ('Slinger' Dunn)'s journey. A tough Western type, Travis suggests that he impersonate Traft and the building of the fence soon begins.

How Does Buster Crabbe ('Slinger' Dunn)'s Story End?

• Buster Crabbe: Buster Crabbe's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
• Katherine DeMille (Molly Dunn): Katherine DeMille's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
• Tom Keene (Jim Travis): Tom Keene's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

What Does the Ending of Drift Fence Mean?

Drift Fence's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Buster Crabbe may feel rushed. Otho Lovering's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.