Former propman Howard Bretherton was one of the countless directors who made a significant contribution to the film industry, particularly in the western genre, by creating a plethora of movies that generations of children eagerly anticipated watching at Saturday afternoon matinées.
Bretherton's illustrious career as an action and western director spanned over two and a half decades, from the late 1920s to the mid-1950s. During this period, he tirelessly produced scores of cowboy films, action-adventure yarns, serials, and a wide range of other motion pictures that anyone would commission him to make.
Bretherton's ability to create films efficiently, quickly, and within budget, as per the demands of "B" picture producers, was likely a major factor in his desirability as a director. His additional skill as an editor, which he passed down to his son David Bretherton, who went on to have a successful editing career spanning over four decades, further enhanced his appeal to producers.
Bretherton was one of the directors responsible for the long-running "Hopalong Cassidy" series and spent a significant amount of time at Warner Bros., producing numerous gritty action pictures for the studio. Unlike many of his fellow "B" directors who transitioned to series television towards the end of their careers, Bretherton remained primarily focused on feature films until his retirement in 1952, with only occasional forays into episodic television.
Biography of Howard Bretherton:
Howard Bretherton was born and raised in the United States, where he began his career in the film industry as a propman. Over time, he transitioned into directing, specializing in the action and western genres. Bretherton's impressive career spanned over two and a half decades, during which he directed numerous films, including cowboy flicks, action-adventure yarns, serials, and other motion pictures.
Bretherton's skill as an editor, which he passed down to his son David, was an added asset in his career as a director. He was one of the directors responsible for the long-running "Hopalong Cassidy" series and spent a significant amount of time at Warner Bros., producing numerous gritty action pictures for the studio.
Throughout his career, Bretherton remained committed to his craft, consistently delivering high-quality films that entertained generations of moviegoers. His dedication and perseverance ultimately led to a successful and fulfilling career in the film industry.
