List of film serials explained

A list of film serials by year of release.

1910s

Production CompanyTitleChaptersGenreDirectorCastNotes
1910
Deutsche Vitaskop GmbHArsène Lupin contra Sherlock Holmes5MysteryViggo LarsenPaul Otto as Lupin and Viggo Larsen as HolmesGerman;
based on the novel Arsène Lupin versus Herlock Sholmes by Maurice Leblanc;
Survival status is unknown.[1] [2]
1912
Edison StudiosWhat Happened to Mary12DramaCharles BrabinMary FullerEpisodes 1–4: Survival status unclear.[3] Episodes 5–8, 10, 11: Museum of Modern Art[4]

Episode 9: Library of Congress

Episode 12: Survival status unclear

Other sources indicate a print exists yet provide no specifics[5]

1913
Selig Polyscope CompanyThe Adventures of Kathlyn13AdventureFrancis J. GrandonKathlyn WilliamsPresumed lost. Considered to be the first "cliffhanger" serial.[6]
Edison StudiosWho Will Marry Mary?6DramaWalter EdwinMary FullerIncomplete prints of episodes one and five survive[7]
Société des Etablissements L. GaumontFantômas5MysteryLouis FeuilladeRené NavarreFrench
Based on Fantômas by Marcel Allain and Pierre Souvestre
Print exists.[8] [9] Released on Blu-ray by Kino Lorber 2016.
1914
PathéThe Perils of Pauline20AdventureLouis J. Gasnier and Donald MacKenziePearl WhiteFirst Pathé serial; known to exist only in a shortened 9-chapter version (approx. 214 minutes)[10]
Wharton StudioThe Exploits of Elaine14MysteryGeorge B. SeitzPearl White, Arnold Daly, Sheldon LewisSurvival status: Prints exist in the George Eastman Museum film archive [incomplete 35mm positive]; and (of some of the episodes, including episodes 8-10) [16mm reduction positives, 8mm reduction positives][11]
Kalem CompanyThe Hazards of Helen119RailroadJ. P. McGowan and James D. DavisHelen Holmes and Helen Gibson119 chapters – At 23.8 hours, this is considered to be the longest serial ever made. Each episode was about 12 minutes. Very little of it survives.[12]
Edison StudiosThe Active Life of Dolly of the Dailies12Girl ReporterWalter EdwinMary FullerOnly two episodes, 5 & 10, are known to exist.
The Man Who Disappeared12DramaCharles BrabinMarc McDermott(considered lost)
Reliance Motion Picture Studio/Mutual FilmOur Mutual Girl52DramaJohn W. Noble, Oscar EagleNorma PhillipsSurvival status is unknown
Thanhouser Film CorporationThe Million Dollar Mystery23MysteryHowell HanselFlorence La Badie, Marguerite Snow, James Cruze, Sidney Bracey(considered lost)
Zudora20DramaHowell HanselMarguerite Snow, James Cruze
Universal Film Manufacturing Co.Lucille Love, Girl of Mystery15SpyFrancis FordGrace Cunard, Francis FordFirst Universal serial; an incomplete print of 4 chapters exists
The Master Key15AdventureRobert Z. LeonardRobert Z. Leonard, Ella Hall(only episode 5 survives in the Library of Congress)
Universal PicturesThe Trey o' Hearts15CrimeWilfred Lucas and Henry MacRaeCleo Madison, George LarkinBased on a novel by Louis Joseph Vance
(considered lost)
Lubin Manufacturing CompanyThe Beloved Adventurer15DramaArthur V. JohnsonArthur V. Johnson, Lottie Briscoe
1915
Pathé & Wharton StudioThe New Exploits of Elaine10CrimeLouis J. Gasnier, Leopold Wharton and Theodore WhartonPearl White(considered lost)
The Romance of Elaine12SpyGeorge B. Seitz, Leopold Wharton and Theodore WhartonPearl White, Lionel Barrymore, Creighton HaleBased on the novel by Arthur B. Reeve
(considered lost)
Balboa Amusement Producing CompanyNeal of the Navy14MaritimeWilliam Bertram and W.M. HarveyLillian Lorraine, William Courtleigh Jr.(considered lost)
The Red Circle14DramaSherwood MacDonaldRuth Roland(only a brief trailer survives)
American Film Manufacturing CompanyThe Diamond From the Sky30AdventureJacques Jaccard and William Desmond TaylorLottie Pickford(considered lost)
Reliance Film CompanyRunaway June15DramaOscar EagleNorma Phillips
Kalem CompanyThe Ventures of Marguerite16CrimeRobert Ellis, John Mackin and Hamilton SmithMarguerite Courtot
Universal Film Manufacturing Co.The Black Box15MysteryOtis TurnerHerbert Rawlinsonwritten by E. Phillips Oppenheim; a novelization of the serial with photos was published
(considered lost)
Under the Crescent6AdventureBurton L. KingOla HumphreyBased on the biography of actress Ola Humphrey
(considered lost)
The Broken Coin22AdventureFrancis FordGrace Cunard, Francis FordBased on a story by Emerson Hough
(considered lost)
Graft20CrimeGeorge Lessey and Richard StantonHobart Henley, Jane Novak(considered lost)
Power Picture PlaysThe Mysterious Lady Baffles and Detective Duck11ComedyAllen CurtisGale Henry, Max Asher
Lubin Manufacturing CompanyThe Road o'Strife15DramaHowell Hansel and John InceCrane Wilbur, Mary Charleson, Jack Standing
Signal Film CorporationThe Girl and the Game15RailroadJ. P. McGowanHelen Holmes, Leo D. Maloney, J. P. McGowan
Vitagraph Company of AmericaThe Goddess15DramaRalph InceAnita Stewart
The Fates and Flora Fourflush3ComedyWally VanClara Kimball Young
Société des Etablissements L. GaumontLes Vampires10MysteryLouis FeuilladeMusidoraFrench
(available on DVD)
1916
Wharton StudioThe Iron Claw20MysteryGeorge B. SeitzPearl WhiteA print of episode 7 exists[13]
The Mysteries of Myra15HorrorLeopold Wharton and Theodore WhartonHoward Estabrook, Jean SothernSegments of only three chapters exist
The Grip of Evil14DramaW.A.S. Douglas and Harry HarveyJackie Saunders, Roland Bottomley
Wharton Studio/HearstBeatrice Fairfax15Girl ReporterLeopold Wharton and Theodore WhartonGrace Darling, Harry Fox(Available on DVD)
Astra Film Corporation/PathéThe Shielding Shadow15MysteryLouis J. Gasnier and Donald MacKenzieGrace Darmond, Ralph Kellard, Léon Bary(Only chapters 4, 10, 11, 14 and 15 exist)[14]
Pearl of the Army15WarEdward JoséPearl White(Available on DVD)
Erbograph/Consolidated Film CompanyThe Crimson Stain Mystery16HorrorT. Hayes HunterMaurice Costello, Ethel Grandin(Exists in incomplete form)
Kleine Productions Inc.Gloria's Romance20DramaColin Campbell and Walter EdwinBillie Burke(considered lost)
Metro Pictures CorporationThe Great Secret18MysteryChristy CabanneFrancis X. Bushman, Beverly Bayne(considered lost)
Deutsche BioscopHomunculus6Science fictionOtto RippertOlaf FønssGerman
Société des Etablissements L. GaumontL'X Noir1 chapter (40 minutes)Crime dramaLéonce PerretFabienne Fabreges, Paul MansonFrench
Judex12CrimeLouis FeuilladeRené Cresté, MusidoraFrench
(available on DVD)
Niagara Film StudiosPerils of Our Girl Reporters15Girl reporterGeorge Terwilliger
American Film Manufacturing CompanyThe Secret of the Submarine15SpyGeorge L. SargentJuanita Hansen, Tom Chatterton(considered lost)
The Scarlet Runner12William P. S. Earle and Wally VanEarle Williams(considered lost)
The Sequel to the Diamond From the Sky4DramaEdward SlomanRhea Mitchell(considered lost)
Essanay Film Manufacturing Company.The Strange Case of Mary Page15MysteryJ. Charles HaydonHenry B. Walthall, Edna Mayo(considered lost)
Signal Film CorporationThe Yellow Menace16William SteinerEdwin Stevens
Lass of the Lumberlands15WesternJ. P. McGowanHelen Holmes(considered lost)
Universal Film Manufacturing Co.The Adventures of Peg o' the Ring15CircusFrancis Ford and Jacques JaccardGrace Cunard, Francis Ford(considered lost)
Liberty20WesternHenry MacRaeMarie WalcampFirst purely Western Serial ever made
(considered lost)[15]
Vitagraph Company of AmericaThe Purple Mask16MysteryFrancis Ford and Grace CunardGrace Cunard, Francis Ford
1917
Astra Film Corporation/PathéThe Mystery of the Double Cross15MysteryLouis J. Gasnier and William ParkeMollie King, Léon Bary(Available on DVD)
The Fatal Ring20CrimeGeorge B. SeitzPearl White(A complete print may exist in the UCLA Film and Television Archive film archive)[16]
The Seven Pearls15AdventureLouis J. Gasnier and Donald MacKenzieMollie King, Creighton Hale, Léon Bary(only fragments exist in the Library of Congress)
The Hidden Hand15MysteryJames VincentDoris Kenyon(considered lost)
Balboa Amusement Producing CompanyThe Neglected Wife15DramaWilliam BertramRuth Roland(A complete print exists)[17]
Wharton Studio/International Film Service Inc.Patria15WarJacques Jaccard, Leopold Wharton and Theodore WhartonIrene CastleBased on the novel The Last of the Fighting Channings by Louis Joseph Vance; only episodes 1-4 and 10 exist.[18]
Signal Film CorporationThe Railroad Raiders15RailroadJ. P. McGowanHelen Holmes
The Lost Express15RailroadJ. P. McGowanHelen Holmes
Monmouth Film CorporationJimmie Dale Alias the Grey Seal16MysteryHarry McRae WebsterE.K. Lincoln, Doris Mitchell, Edna Hunter, Paul Panzer
Paramount PicturesWho Is Number One?15MysteryWilliam BertramKathleen Clifford(considered lost)
Universal Film Manufacturing Co.Voice on the Wire15MysteryStuart PatonBen F. Wilson, Neva Gerber, Joseph W. Girard(considered lost)
The Gray Ghost16MysteryStuart PatonHarry Carter, Priscilla Dean, Emory Johnson, Eddie Polo(considered lost)
The Red Ace16WarJacques JaccardMarie Walcamp(Only 11 of the 15 chapters exist in the Library of Congress)[19]
The Mystery Ship18MaritimeHenry MacRaeBen F. Wilson, Neva Gerber(considered lost)
Vitagraph Company of AmericaThe Secret Kingdom15FantasyCharles BrabinCharles Richman, Dorothy Kelly, Arline Pretty, Joseph Kilgour
The Fighting Trail15WesternWilliam DuncanWilliam Duncan, Carol Holloway(considered lost)[20]
Vengeance and the Woman15William Duncan and Laurence TrimbleWilliam Duncan, Carol Holloway
1918
Astra Film Corporation/PathéThe House of Hate20MysteryGeorge B. SeitzPearl White, Antonio Moreno(A restored version is available on DVD)
Hands Up!15WesternLouis J. Gasnier and James W. HorneRuth Roland(considered lost)
Western Photoplays Inc.Wolves of Kultur15WarJoseph A. GoldenLeah Baird, Sheldon Lewis, Charles Hutchison(Only 7 of the 15 chapters still exist)[21]
Jaxon Film CorporationA Daughter of Uncle Sam12WarJames C. Morton
Wharton StudioThe Eagle's Eye20WarGeorge Lessey, Wellington A. Playter, Leopold Wharton and Theodore WhartonKing Baggot, Marguerite Snow(considered lost)
Rolfe PhotoplaysThe Master Mystery15Mystery, Science fictionHarry Grossman and Burton L. KingHarry Houdini(Incomplete, reconstructed version available on DVD)[22]
Burston Films Inc.The Silent Mystery15MysteryFrancis FordFrancis Ford, Mae Gaston, Rosemary Theby(considered lost)
Universal Film Manufacturing Co.The Red Glove18WesternJ. P. McGowanMarie Walcamp(considered lost)
The Lion's Claws18AdventureHarry Harvey and Jacques JaccardMarie Walcamp(considered lost)
The Brass Bullet18MaritimeBen F. WilsonJuanita Hansen, Jack Mulhall(considered lost)
Lure of the Circus18CircusJ. P. McGowanEddie Polo(Only an edited feature version exists)[23]
Bull's Eye18WesternJames W. HorneEddie Polo(considered lost)
Vitagraph Company of AmericaA Woman in the Web15Paul Hurst and David SmithHedda Nova(considered lost)
A Fight for Millions15WesternWilliam DuncanWilliam Duncan, Edith Johnson, Joe Ryan
The Iron Test15CircusRobert North Bradbury and Paul HurstAntonio Moreno, Carol Holloway
Société des Etablissements L. GaumontTih Minh12MysteryLouis FeuilladeRené Cresté, Mary HaraldFrench
(A complete print exists)[24]
1919
Astra Film Corporation/PathéThe Lightning Raider15CrimeGeorge B. SeitzPearl White, Boris KarloffSurvives in an incomplete state preserved at the Library of Congress[25]
Terror of the Range7WesternStuart PatonGeorge Larkin, Betty Compson(considered lost)
The Tiger's Trail15MysteryRobert Ellis, Louis J. Gasnier and Paul HurstRuth Roland
Bound and Gagged10ComedyGeorge B. SeitzGeorge B. Seitz, Marguerite CourtotFour episodes survive in the Library of Congress[26]
The Adventures of Ruth15CrimeGeorge MarshallRuth Roland(considered lost)
George B. Seitz ProductionsThe Black Secret15SpyGeorge B. SeitzPearl White
Western Photoplays Inc.The Great Gamble15CrimeJoseph A. GoldenCharles Hutchison, Anna Luther
Oliver Films Inc.The Carter Case15MysteryWilliam F. Haddock and Donald MacKenzieHerbert Rawlinson, Marguerite MarshA Craig Kennedy mystery
Great Western Film Producing CompanyElmo the Mighty18NorthernHenry MacRaeElmo Lincoln, Grace Cunard
SLK Serial CorporationThe Fatal Fortune15MaritimeDonald MacKenzie and Frank WunderleeHelen Holmes
National Film Corporation of AmericaLightning Bryce15Western, HorrorPaul HurstAnn Little, Jack Hoxie
Wisteria ProductionsThe Lurking Peril15HorrorGeorge MorganGeorge Larkin, Anna Luther
Burston Films Inc.The Mystery of 1315MysteryFrancis FordFrancis Ford, Rosemary Theby
American Lifeograph CompanyThe Perils of Thunder Mountain15NorthernRobert North Bradbury and W.J. BurmanAntonio Moreno, Carol Holloway
Serico Producing Company Inc.A Woman in Grey15MysteryJames VincentArline Pretty, Henry G. Sell
Universal Film Manufacturing Co.The Midnight Man18James W. HorneJames J. Corbett
The Lion Man18MysteryAlbert Russell and Jack WellsKathleen O'Connor, Jack Perrin, J. Barney Sherry, Gertrude Astor
The Great Radium Mystery18MysteryRobert Broadwell and Robert F. HillEileen Sedgwick, Cleo Madison, Robert Reeves
Shamrock Photoplay CorporationThe Masked Rider15WesternAubrey M. KennedyHarry Myers, Ruth Stonehouse, Paul Panzer, Boris Karloff
Hallmark Pictures CorporationThe Trail of the Octopus15MysteryDuke WorneBen F. Wilson, Neva Gerber
Vitagraph Company of AmericaMan of Might15MaritimeWilliam Duncan and Clifford SmithWilliam Duncan
Smashing Barriers15WesternWilliam DuncanWilliam Duncan
Société des Etablissements L. GaumontBarrabas12Louis FeuilladeFrench

1920s

Production CompanyTitleChaptersGenreDirectorCastNotes
1920
Allgood Pictures CorporationThe Whirlwind15Joseph A. GoldenCharles Hutchison
Arrow Film CorporationThe Fatal Sign14MysteryStuart PatonClaire Anderson, Harry Carter
Berwilla Film CorporationThunderbolt Jack10WesternFrancis Ford and Murdock MacQuarrieJack Hoxie, Marin Sais
Burston Films Inc.The Hawk's Trail15CrimeW. S. Van DykeKing Baggot, Grace Darmond, Rhea Mitchell
Canyon Pictures CorporationVanishing Trails15WesternLeon De La MotheFranklyn Farnum, Mary Anderson
Fox Film CorporationBride 1315MaritimeRichard Stanton
Fantômas20CrimeEdward SedgwickBased on Fantômas by Marcel Allain and Pierre Souvestre
Frohman Amusement CorporationThe Invisible Ray15Science fictionHarry A. PollardRuth Clifford, Jack Sherrill
George B. Seitz ProductionsVelvet Fingers15George B. SeitzGeorge B. Seitz, Marguerite Courtot
Great Western Film Producing CorporationElmo the Fearless18J. P. McGowanElmo Lincoln
Grossman PicturesThe $1,000,000 Reward15Harry Grossman and George LesseyLillian Walker
Hallmark Pictures CorporationThe Screaming Shadow15HorrorBen F. Wilson and Duke WorneBen F. Wilson, Neva Gerber
The Evil Eye15J. Gordon Cooper and Wally VanBenny Leonard
Holmes Producing CorporationThe Tiger Band15Gilbert P. HamiltonHelen Holmes
National Film Corporation of AmericaThe Son of Tarzan15Jungle
Fantasy
Arthur J. Flaven and Harry RevierKamuela C. SearleBased on the Tarzan character created by novelist Edgar Rice Burroughs
Pathé & Astra Film CorporationDaredevil Jack15W. S. Van DykeJack Dempsey
Trailed by Three15WesternPerry N. VekroffStuart Holmes, Frankie Mann
The Third Eye15James W. HorneWarner Oland, Eileen Percy
Pirate Gold10MaritimeGeorge B. SeitzGeorge B. Seitz, Marguerite Courtot
The Phantom Foe15MysteryBertram MillhauserJuanita Hansen, Warner Oland
Pathé & Ruth Roland SerialsRuth of the Rockies15WesternGeorge MarshallRuth Roland
Select Pictures CorporationThe Branded Four15Duke WorneBen F. Wilson, Neva Gerber
Supreme Pictures CorporationThe Mystery Mind15Will S. Davis and Fred SittenhamJ. Robert Pauline
Torquay & Paignton Photoplay ProductionsThe Great London MysteryHorror mysteryCharles RaymondDavid DevantBritish
Universal PicturesThe Moon Riders18WesternB. Reeves Eason and Theodore WhartonArt Acord, Mildred Moore
The Vanishing Dagger18Edward A. Kull, J. P. McGowan and Eddie PoloEddie Polo
The Dragon's Net12Henry MacRaeMarie Walcamp, Harland Tucker
The Flaming Disc18Robert F. HillElmo Lincoln, Louise Lorraine
King of the Circus18J. P. McGowanEddie Polo
Vitagraph Company of AmericaThe Invisible Hand15WesternWilliam BowmanAntonio Moreno
The Silent Avenger15William DuncanWilliam Duncan, Edith Johnson
Hidden Dangers15William BertramJoe Ryan, Jean Paige
The Veiled Mystery15WesternWilliam Bowman, Webster Cullison, Francis J. Grandon and Antonio MorenoAntonio Moreno
Warner Bros.The Lost City15JungleE.A. MartinJuanita Hansen
1921
Arrow Film CorporationThe Blue Fox15NorthernDuke WorneAnn LittleAn incomplete print of the film exists at the UCLA Film and Television Archive.[27]
Burston Films Inc.The Great Reward15Francis FordFrancis Ford
Films DiamantLes Trois MousquetairesHenri Diamant-BergerAimé Simon-Girard, Henri RollanFrench
Based on The Three Musketeers by Alexandre Dumas
Ermolieff FilmsLa pocharde12Henri ÉtiévantFrench
Based on a novel by Jules Mary
Société des Etablissements L. GaumontLes Deux Gamines12Louis FeuilladeSandra MilovanoffFrench
ParisetteLouis FeuilladeSandra Milovanoff, Georges BiscotFrench
George B. Seitz ProductionsThe Sky Ranger15George B. SeitzJune Caprice, George B. Seitz
Hurricane Hutch15George B. SeitzCharles Hutchison, Warner Oland
KosmikThe Hope Diamond Mystery15Stuart PatonGrace Darmond, Boris Karloff
PathéDouble Adventure15W. S. Van DykeCharles Hutchison
The Avenging Arrow15William Bowman and W. S. Van DykeRuth Roland
Phocea FilmL'EssorCharles BurguetSuzanne Grandais, Maurice EscandeFrench
Photoplay Serial CompanyMysterious Pearl15Ben F. WilsonNeva Gerber, Ben F. Wilson
UFA GmbHPeter Voss, Thief of Millions6Georg JacobyHarry LiedtkeGerman
Alternative title: The Man Without a Name
Based on Peter Voss, Thief of Millions by Ewald Gerhard Seeliger
Universal PicturesThe Diamond Queen18Edward A. KullEileen SedgwickBased on the novel The Diamond Master by Jacques Futrelle
Do or Die18J. P. McGowanEddie Polo
The White Horseman18WesternAlbert RussellArt Acord
Terror Trail18WesternEdward A. KullEileen Sedgwick
Winners of the West13WesternEdward LaemmleArt Acord
The Secret Four15Albert Russell and Perry N. VekroffEddie Polo
Vitagraph Company of AmericaBreaking Through15Robert Ensminger
Fighting Fate15William DuncanWilliam Duncan, Edith Johnson
Warner Bros.Miracles of the Jungle15Jungle/AdventureJames Conway and E.A. MartinLost film
Weiss Brothers Artclass Pictures CorporationThe Adventures of Tarzan15Jungle
Fantasy
Robert F. Hill and Scott SidneyElmo Lincoln, Louise LorraineBased on the Tarzan character created by novelist Edgar Rice Burroughs
1922
Arrow Film CorporationNan of the North15NorthernDuke WorneAnn Little
George B. Seitz ProductionsGo Get 'Em Hutch15George B. SeitzCharles Hutchison
Speed15George B. SeitzCharles Hutchison, Lucy Fox
Hal Roach Studios Inc. & Ruth Roland SerialsWhite Eagle15WesternFred Jackman and W. S. Van DykeRuth Roland
The Timber Queen15Fred JackmanRuth Roland
Société des CinéromansRouletabille chez les bohémiens10Henri FescourtGabriel de GravoneFrench
Based on Rouletabille by Gaston Leroux
Star Serial CorporationCaptain Kidd15PirateBurton L. King and J. P. McGowanEddie Polo
Universal PicturesWith Stanley in Africa18JungleWilliam James Craft and Edward A. KullGeorge Walsh, Louise Lorraine
The Adventures of Robinson Crusoe18MaritimeRobert F. HillHarry Myers, Gertrude Olmstead, Noble JohnsonBased on Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe
Lost film
Perils of the Yukon15NorthernJay Marchant, J. P. McGowan and Perry N. VekroffWilliam Desmond
In the Days of Buffalo Bill18WesternEdward LaemmleArt Acord
The Radio King10Robert F. HillRoy Stewart
Vitagraph Company of AmericaThe Purple Riders15WesternWilliam BertramJoe Ryan
Warner Bros.A Dangerous Adventure15JungleJack L. Warner and Sam WarnerGrace DarmondLost film
William N. Selig ProductionsThe Jungle Goddess15JungleJames ConwayElinor Field, Truman Van Dyke
1923
Arrow Film CorporationThe Fighting Skipper15MaritimeFrancis FordJack Perrin, Peggy O'Day
The Santa Fe Trail15WesternAshton Dearholt and Robert DillonNeva Gerber, Jack Perrin
Ermolieff FilmsThe House of Mystery10Alexandre VolkoffIvan Mosjoukine, Charles VanelFrench
Based on a novel by Jules Mary
George B. Seitz ProductionsPlunder15George B. SeitzPearl White
Hal Roach Studios Inc.Haunted Valley15George MarshallRuth Roland
Her Dangerous Path10Roy ClementsEdna Murphy
Ruth Roland SerialsRuth of the Range15Ernest C. Ward, Frank Leon Smith and W. S. Van DykeRuth Roland
Universal PicturesAround the World in Eighteen Days12Robert F. Hill and B. Reeves EasonWilliam Desmond
Beasts of Paradise15William James CraftWilliam Desmond, Eileen Sedgwick
The Eagle's Talons15Duke WorneFred Thomson, Ann Little
The Ghost City15WesternJay MarchantPete Morrison, Margaret Morris, Al Wilson
In the Days of Daniel Boone15WesternWilliam James CraftJack Mower, Eileen Sedgwick
The Oregon Trail18WesternEdward LaemmleArt Acord, Louise Lorraine
The Phantom Fortune12Robert F. HillWilliam Desmond
The Social Buccaneer10Robert F. HillJack MulhallBased on a novel by Frederic S. Isham
The Steel Trail15William DuncanWilliam Duncan, Edith Johnson
1924
Arrow Film CorporationRiders of the Plains15WesternJacques JaccardJack Perrin, Boris Karloff
PathéThe Fortieth Door10AdventureGeorge B. SeitzAllene Ray
Galloping Hoofs10WesternGeorge B. SeitzAllene Ray
Into the Net10George B. SeitzEdna Murphy, Jack Mulhall
Leatherstocking10WesternGeorge B. SeitzEdna Murphy, Harold MillerBased on The Deerslayer by James Fenimore Cooper
Ten Scars Make a Man10William ParkeAllene Ray
The Way of a Man10WesternGeorge B. SeitzAllene Ray, Harold MillerScreenplay by Emerson Hough
Rayart Pictures CorporationBattling Brewster15Western/ BoxingDell HendersonFranklyn Farnum, Helen Holmes
Universal PicturesThe Fast Express15William DuncanWilliam Duncan, Edith Johnson
The Fighting Ranger18WesternJay MarchantJack Dougherty, Al Wilson, Eileen Sedgwick
The Iron Man15Crime dramaJay MarchantLuciano Albertini, Margaret Morris, Joe Bonomo, Jack Dougherty
The Riddle Rider15WesternWilliam James CraftWilliam Desmond, Eileen SedgwickConsidered a lost film; followed by a 1927 sequel Return of the Riddle Rider
Wolves of the North10NorthernWilliam DuncanWilliam Duncan, Edith Johnson
1925
Adventure PicturesPerils of the Wild15MaritimeFrancis FordJoe Bonomo, Boris KarloffBased on The Swiss Family Robinson by Johann David Wyss
J. Charles Davis ProductionsThe Mystery Box10Alan JamesBen F. Wilson, Neva Gerber
The Power God15Science fictionFrancis Ford and Ben F. WilsonBen F. Wilson, Neva Gerber
PathéThe Green Archer10MysterySpencer Gordon BennetAllene Ray, Walter MillerBased on a novel by Edgar Wallace
The House Without a Key10MysterySpencer Gordon BennetAllene Ray, Walter MillerFirst onscreen appearance of "Charlie Chan";[28] based on The House Without a Key by Earl Derr Biggers
Idaho10WesternRobert F. HillMahlon Hamilton, Vivian Rich
Sunken Silver10Spencer Gordon BennetAllene Ray, Walter MillerBased on a novel by Albert Payson Terhune
Wild West10WesternRobert F. HillHelen Ferguson, Jack Mulhall
Play Ball10Spencer Gordon BennetAllene Ray, Walter Miller
Rayart Pictures CorporationThe Flame Fighter10Robert DillonHerbert Rawlinson
Secret Service Sanders15Duke WorneAshton Dearholt, Ann Little
Société des CinéromansSurcouf8MaritimeLuitz-MoratJean AngeloFrench
Universal PicturesAce of Spades15WesternHenry MacRaeWilliam Desmond
The Great Circus Mystery15Jay MarchantJoe Bonomo, Louise Lorraine
Wild West ProductionsDays of '4915WesternJacques Jaccard and Ben F. WilsonNeva Gerber, Edmund Cobb
1926
Goodwill PicturesOfficer 44410Francis Ford and Ben F. WilsonBen F. Wilson, Neva Gerber
The Radio Detective10William James Craft and William A. CrinleyJack Dougherty, Margaret Quimby
Holmes Producing CorporationLightning Hutch10Charles HutchisonCharles Hutchison
The Mystery Pilot10
PathéThe Bar-C Mystery10WesternRobert F. HillDorothy Phillips, Wallace MacDonald
Casey of the Coast Guard10MaritimeWilliam NighGeorge O'Hara, Helen Ferguson
The Fighting Marine10Spencer Gordon BennetGene Tunney
Snowed In10Spencer Gordon BennetAllene Ray, Walter Miller
Rayart Pictures CorporationThe Phantom Police10Robert DillonHerbert Rawlinson
Scotty of the Scouts10Boy scoutsDuke WorneBen Alexander
Trooper 7710Duke WorneHerbert Rawlinson
Sierra PicturesVanishing Millions15Alan James
Universal PicturesThe Scarlet Streak10Henry MacRaeJack Dougherty, Lola Todd
Fighting With Buffalo Bill10WesternRay TaylorWallace MacDonald
Strings of Steel10Henry MacRaeWilliam Desmond, Eileen Sedgwick
The Winking Idol10WesternFrancis FordWilliam Desmond, Eileen Sedgwick
The Silent Flyer10NorthernWilliam James CraftSilver Streak the dog, Louise LorraineThis serial led to the founding of Mascot Pictures and is often listed as Mascot's first serial; it was produced by Nat Levine but released by Universal.
1927
Hercules Film ProductionsKing of the Jungle10JungleWebster CullisonElmo Lincoln, Sally Long, Gordon Standingconsidered a lost film (only a trailer exists)
Mascot PicturesHeroes of the Wild10WesternHarry S. WebbJack Hoxie, Joe Bonomo, Tornado the Wonder Dog, White Fury (the horse) First Mascot serial; considered a lost film
Isle of Sunken Gold10Maritime, PiratesHarry S. WebbAnita Stewart, Duke Kahanamoku, Jack Pierce (make-up artist)Parts of chapters 4 through 7 were recently discovered
The Golden Stallion10WesternHarry S. WebbLefty Flynn, Joe Bonomo, White FuryA complete print exists
William Steiner Prods.The Scarlet Brand10WesternNeal HartNeal Hart, Lucille Irwin, Wm. Quinn
PathéThe Crimson Flash10ActionArch HeathCullen Landis, Eugenia Gilbert, J. Barney SherryConsidered a lost film[29]
Hawk of the Hills10WesternSpencer Gordon BennetAllene Ray, Walter Miller, Jack GanzhornA complete print exists
The Masked Menace10Crime filmArch HeathLarry Kent, Jean Arthur, Thomas HoldingBased on a short story "Still Face" by Clarence Budington Kelland; a lost film
Melting Millions10Crime filmSpencer Gordon BennetAllene Ray, Walter Miller, Eugenia Gilbertconsidered a lost film
On Guard!10Arch HeathCullen Landis, Muriel Kingston, Walter P. Lewisconsidered a lost film
Rayart Pictures CorporationFighting For Fame10Duke WorneBen Alexander
Société des CinéromansBelphégorHenri DesfontainesFrench
Based on Belphégor by Arthur Bernède
Universal PicturesBlake of Scotland Yard12CrimeRobert F. HillHayden Stevenson, Grace Cunard, Monte Montague, Walter BrennanFollowed by a sequel The Ace of Scotland Yard (1929)
The Fire Fighters10Crime filmJacques JaccardJack Dougherty, Helen Ferguson, Lafe McKeeConsidered a lost film[30]
The Return of the Riddle Rider10WesternRobert F. HillWilliam Desmond, Grace Cunard, Lola ToddA sequel to The Riddle Rider (1924); Considered a lost film[31]
The Trail of the Tiger10Crime filmHenry MacRaeJack Dougherty, Francis Teague, Jack MowerConsidered a lost film
Whispering Smith Rides10WesternRay TaylorWallace MacDonaldBased on Whispering Smith by Frank H. Spearman; a lost film
Weiss Brothers Artclass Pictures CorporationPerils of the Jungle10JungleRay Taylor and Jack NelsonEugenia Gilbert, Frank Merrill, Bobby Nelson
William I. Pizor ProductionsThe Mansion of Mystery10MysteryRobert J. Horner
1928
GoodartPirates of the Pines10MaritimeJ.C. CookGeorge O'Hara
Mascot PicturesThe Vanishing West10WesternRichard ThorpeEileen Sedgwick, Jack Perrin, Jack Dougherty
Vultures of the Sea10MaritimeRichard ThorpeBoris Karloff
William M. PizorThe House of Terror10HorrorRoland D. ReedPat O'Brien, Jack La Rue
PathéEagle of the Night10AviationJames F. Fulton
The Man Without a Face10Spencer Gordon BennetAllene Ray, Walter MillerWritten by A. M. Williamson and C. N. Williamson
Mark of the Frog10Arch HeathWritten by Edgar Wallace (considered lost)
The Terrible People10Spencer Gordon BennetAllene Ray, Walter MillerBased on The Terrible People by Edgar Wallace
The Tiger's Shadow10Spencer Gordon BennetGladys McConnell, Hugh Allan
The Yellow Cameo10Spencer Gordon BennetAllene Ray, Cyclone the Dog
Robert J. HornerThe Mystery Rider10WesternRobert J. HornerWilliam Desmond
Syndicate PicturesThe Chinatown Mystery10J. P. McGowanJoe Bonomo, Ruth Hiatt, Francis Ford
Universal PicturesA Final Reckoning12WesternRay TaylorNewton House, Louise Lorraine
Haunted Island10FantasyRobert F. HillJack DoughertyRemake of the 1918 Universal serial The Brass Bullet[32]
The Scarlet Arrow10NorthernRay TaylorFrancis X. Bushman Jr.
Tarzan the Mighty15Jungle
Fantasy
Ray Taylor and Jack NelsonFrank Merrill, Natalie KingstonBased on the novel Jungle Tales of Tarzan by Edgar Rice Burroughs; considered a lost film
The Vanishing Rider12WesternRay TaylorWilliam Desmond, Ethlyne Clair, Boris Karloffconsidered lost.[33]
Weiss Brothers Artclass Pictures CorporationThe Mysterious Airman10AviationHarry RevierWalter Miller, Eugenia GilbertWritten by famed mystery novelist Arthur B. Reeve
Weiss Brothers Artclass Pictures CorporationPolice Reporter10Jack NelsonWalter Miller, Eugenia Gilbe
1929
Mascot PicturesThe Fatal Warning10MysteryRichard ThorpeHelene Costello, Ralph Graves, Boris Karloff(considered lost)[34]
The King of the Kongo10JungleRichard ThorpeJacqueline Logan, Walter Miller, Boris KarloffFirst serial with partial sound; a complete picture exists, but some of the sound has been lost.[35]
PathéThe Black Book10CrimeSpencer Gordon BennetAllene Ray, Walter MillerPrint exists in the Library of Congress film archive [episodes 1, 3, 5-10, 35mm positive].
The Fire Detective10CrimeSpencer Gordon BennetGladys McConnell, Hugh Allan(considered lost)
Queen of the Northwoods10NorthernSpencer Gordon BennetWalter Miller, Ethlyne ClairIncomplete print believed to exist
Universal PicturesThe Diamond Master10Crime Jack NelsonHayden Stevenson, Louise LorraineBased on a novel by Jacques Futrelle
(considered lost)
The Pirate of Panama12MaritimeRay TaylorNatalie Kingston, Buffalo Bill Jr.(considered lost)
The Ace of Scotland Yard10MysteryRay TaylorCrawford Kent, Monte MontagueFirst Partial Sound Universal serial; released in both silent and sound versions; considered a lost film
Tarzan the Tiger15Jungle
Fantasy
Henry MacRaeFrank Merrill, Natalie KingstonBased on the novel "Tarzan and the Jewels of Opar" by Edgar Rice Burroughs; two versions were released: one silent, the other with music & sound fx added; available on DVD

1930s

(Film prints exist unless noted otherwise)

Production CompanyTitle ChaptersGenreDirectorCastNotes
1930
Ben Wilson ProductionsThe Voice from the Sky10Science fictionBen F. WilsonWally Wales, Neva GerberFirst serial with full sound; print exists[36]
Mascot PicturesThe Lone Defender12WesternRichard ThorpeRin Tin Tin, Buzz Barton, Joe Bonomo, June MarlowePrint exists; also released as a feature version
Talking Picture Epics Inc.Across the World with Mr & Mrs Martin JohnsonTravelogueJames Leo MeehanMartin and Osa JohnsonTour visits Australia, Hawaii, Tanganyika and the Belgian congo
Hunting Tigers in India82 minutesDocumentaryJames Leo MeehanGeorge Miller DyottFilmed in 1929; later re-edited into a 3-episode series
Universal PicturesThe Jade Box10Fantasy
Mystery
Ray TaylorJack Perrin, Louise Lorraine, Francis Ford, Jay NovelloPartial sound; an incomplete print exists in Universal's vault
The Lightning Express10Western, RailroadHenry MacRaeLouise Lorraine, Lane Chandler, Al Ferguson, James PierceBased on the "Whispering Smith" character created by novelist Frank H. Spearman; Remake of Whispering Smith Rides (1927); considered a lost film
Terry of the Times10CrimeHenry MacRaeReed Howes, Lotus Thompson, Sheldon Lewis, Universal's last partial sound serial; considered a lost film
The Indians are Coming12WesternHenry MacRaeTim McCoy, Allene Ray, Francis FordFirst Universal all-talking serial; based on a novel The Great West That Was by "Buffalo Bill" Cody[37]
1931
Les Films OssoMéphisto4MysteryHenri Debain and Georges VinterJean GabinFrench
Based on a novel by Arthur Bernède
Mascot PicturesThe Phantom of the West10WesternD. Ross LedermanTom Tyler, Dorothy Gulliver, William Desmond, Joe Bonomo, Kermit Maynard
King of the Wild12JungleRichard Thorpe, B. Reeves EasonWalter Miller, Nora Lane, Boris Karloff, Mischa AuerAlso released in South America as a feature version called "Bimi"
The Vanishing Legion12WesternFord Beebe and B. Reaves EasonHarry Carey, Edwina Booth, Rex King of the Wild Horses, Boris Karloff (voice only), Frankie Darro, Yakima Canutt, Joe Bonomo
The Galloping Ghost12SportsB. Reaves Eason and Benjamin H. KlineFootball star Harold "Red" Grange, Dorothy Gulliver, Lon Chaney Jr. (uncredited)
The Lightning Warrior12Western, Animal adventureBenjamin H. Kline and Armand SchaeferRin Tin Tin, Frankie Darro, Lafe McKeeThis was Rin Tin Tin's last role, being replaced in 1932 by Rin Tin Tin Jr.[38]
Metropolitan PicturesThe Sign of the Wolf10WesternForrest Sheldon and Harry S. WebbRex Lease, Virginia Brown Faire, Rex the Wonder Dog
Syndicate PicturesThe Mystery Trooper10WesternStuart Paton and Harry S. WebbRobert Frazer, Buzz BartonReissued in 1935 as "Trail of the Royal Mounted" with chapter titles all renamed
Universal StudiosFinger Prints10CrimeRay TaylorKenneth Harlan, Edna Murphya lost film
Heroes of the Flames12Crime/ FirefightersRobert F. HillTim McCoy, Andy Devine, Joe Bonomo, Walter Brennan (uncredited)Print was rediscovered and preserved by Universal, but is not available on DVD
Danger Island12JungleRay TaylorKenneth Harlan, Lucile Browne, Walter Miller, Andy Devinea lost film
Battling with Buffalo Bill12WesternRay TaylorTom Tyler, Lucile Browne, Chief ThundercloudBased on a novel The Great West That Was by "Buffalo Bill" Cody
The Spell of the Circus12CrimeRobert F. HillFrancis X. Bushman Jr., Alberta Vaughnconsidered a lost film
1932
Mascot PicturesThe Shadow of the Eagle12Crime, AviationFord BeebeJohn Wayne's first serialEdited into a feature film version when released years later on video[39]
The Last of the Mohicans12WesternFord Beebe and B. Reeves EasonHarry Carey, Hobart BosworthBased on the novel by James Fenimore Cooper
The Hurricane Express12RailroadJ. P. McGowan and Armand SchaeferJohn Wayne, Shirley Grey, Glenn Strange, Fred ToonesLater released as a feature version as well[40]
The Devil Horse12WesternOtto BrowerHarry Carey, Noah Beery, Frankie Darro, Lane Chandler
The Last Frontier12WesternSpencer Gordon Bennet, Thomas L. StoreyLon Chaney Jr. (as The Black Ghost), Francis X. Bushman Jr.Based on a novel by Courtney Ryley Cooper; also released theatrically in 1932 as a 70-minute feature version called The Black Ghost.[41]
Universal PicturesDetective Lloyd12CrimeRay Taylor and Henry MacRaeJack LloydUS/British co-production with British cast, released in Europe as Lloyd of the C.I.D.; a.k.a. The Green Spot Mystery (the feature version); a lost film
The Airmail Mystery12AviationRay TaylorJames Flavin, Lucile Browne, Al Wilson, Walter Brennana lost film
Heroes of the West12WesternRay TaylorNoah Beery Jr., Onslow Stevens, Diane Duvalbased on the novel "The Tie That Binds" by Peter B. Kyne; the novel was made into another serial in 1938 called Flaming Frontiers[42]
Jungle Mystery12JungleRay TaylorTom Tyler, Noah Beery Jr., Cecilia Parker, William Desmondbased on a novel "The Ivory Trail" by Talbot Mundy;[43] A complete print exists but only in Universal's vault
The Lost Special12RailroadHenry MacRaeFrank Albertson, Cecilia ParkerBased on a story The Lost Special by Arthur Conan Doyle
1933
Mascot PicturesThe Whispering Shadow12MysteryColbert Clark and Albert HermanBela Lugosi's first sound serialAlso exists as a feature version
The Three Musketeers12Foreign LegionColbert Clark and Armand SchaeferJohn Wayne, Jack Mulhall, Ruth Hall, Lon Chaney Jr., Raymond Hatton, Robert FrazerChaney's appearance is mainly in the first chapter; Edited later into a 1946 feature version called Desert Command
Fighting with Kit Carson12WesternColbert Clark and Armand SchaeferJohnny Mack Brown, Noah Beery Sr., Noah Beery Jr., Lane ChandlerReleased theatrically as a feature film version in 1946
The Wolf Dog12WesternColbert Clark and Harry L. FraserRin Tin Tin Jr., Frankie Darro, George LewisRin Tin Tin Jr.'s first serial film, having replaced the original dog star in 1932[44]
The Mystery Squadron12AviationColbert Clark and David HowardBob Steele, J. Carrol Naish, Guinn "Big Boy" Williams
Principal PicturesTarzan the Fearless12Jungle
Fantasy
Robert F. HillBuster Crabbe, Jacqueline WellsBased on the Tarzan novels by Edgar Rice Burroughs; only the edited feature version still exists
Universal StudiosClancy of the Mounted12NorthernRay TaylorTom Tyler, Jacqueline Wells, William Desmond(Only the first 6 chapters are available on DVD, but the British Film Institute (BFI) holds a complete 35mm print of all 12 chapters)
The Phantom of the Air12AviationRay TaylorTom Tyler, William Desmond, Walter Brennan
Gordon of Ghost City12WesternRay TaylorBuck Jones, Madge Bellamy, William DesmondBased on the novel "Oh Promise Me!" by Peter B. Kyne
The Perils of Pauline12Damsel in distressRay TaylorEvalyn Knapp, William DesmondSound remake of the 1914 eponymous serial
1934
Mascot PicturesThe Lost Jungle12JungleDavid Howard and Armand SchaeferClyde Beatty, Syd Saylor, Gabby HayesFollowed by a sequel Darkest Africa in 1936
Burn 'Em Up Barnes12Sports (auto racing)Colbert Clark and Armand SchaeferFrankie Darro, Jack Mulhall, Lola LaneLoose remake of the 1921 silent film of the same name[45]
The Law of the Wild12Western, Animal adventureB. Reeves Eason and Armand SchaeferRin Tin Tin Jr., Rex the Wonder Horse, Bob Custer, Ben Turpin, Richard Alexander
Mystery Mountain12WesternOtto Brower and B. Reeves EasonKen Maynard, Syd Saylor, Tarzan the Wonder Horse, Gene Autry (uncredited)
Principal PicturesThe Return of Chandu12FantasyRay TaylorBela Lugosi, Maria AlbaBased on the popular Chandu the Magician radio program; later released as two separate feature versions[46]
Romance Productions IncorporatedYoung Eagles12Boy Scouts, JungleEdward Laurier, Vin MooreBobby Cox, Jim Vance
Universal PicturesPirate Treasure12MaritimeRay TaylorRichard Talmadge
The Vanishing Shadow12Science fictionLew LandersOnslow Stevens, William Desmond
The Red Rider15WesternLew LandersBuck Jones, Grant Withers, William DesmondBased on the short story "The Redhead from Sun Dog" by W. C. Tuttle; a remake of Buck Jones' earlier 1931 film The Range Feud
Tailspin Tommy12AviationLew LandersMaurice Murphy, Noah Beery Jr., Grant WithersBased on the "Tailspin Tommy" newspaper comic strip by Hal Forrest [47]
1935
Burroughs-Tarzan EnterprisesThe New Adventures of Tarzan12Jungle
Fantasy
Edward A. KullHerman BrixBased on the Tarzan character created by Edgar Rice Burroughs
Mascot PicturesThe Phantom Empire12Western, FantasyOtto Brower and B. Reeves EasonGene Autry, Frankie Darro, Smiley BurnetteConsidered the first Science-Fiction Western[48]
The Miracle Rider15WesternOtto Brower and B. Reeves EasonTom Mix, Charles Middleton
The Adventures of Rex and Rinty12Crime, Animal adventureB. Reeves Eason and Ford BeebeKane Richmond, Smiley Burnette, Rin Tin Tin Jr., Rex the Wonder Horse
The Fighting Marines12WarB. Reeves Eason and Joseph KaneGrant Withers, Adrian Morris, Richard Alexander, Jason Robards Sr.Last Mascot serial; Mascot merged into Republic Pictures
Screen AttractionsQueen of the Jungle12JungleRobert F. HillMary Kornman, Reed HowesUsed extensive stock footage from Jungle Goddess (1922)[49]
Super Serial Productions Inc.The Lost City12Science Fiction, JungleHarry RevierWm. (stage) Boyd, Kane Richmond, Claudia Dell, Gabby Hayeslater edited into four different feature versions
Universal PicturesRustlers of Red Dog12WesternLew LandersJohnny Mack Brown, Raymond Hatton, Chief ThundercloudBased on the book The Great West That Was by William "Buffalo Bill" Cody[50]
The Call of the Savage12Jungle
Fantasy
Lew LandersNoah Beery Jr.Based on a story "Jan of the Jungle" by Otis Adelbert Kline; later edited into a 70-minute feature version called Savage Fury[51]
The Roaring West15WesternRay TaylorBuck Jones, Frank McGlynn Sr., William Desmond
Tailspin Tommy in the Great Air Mystery12AviationRay TaylorClark Williams, Jean Rogers, Noah Beery Jr., Grant WithersBased on the "Tailspin Tommy" comic strip by Hal Forrest
1936
Beginning of the Golden Age of Serials[52]
Republic PicturesDarkest Africa15JungleB. Reeves Eason and Joseph KaneClyde Beatty, Manuel King, Elaine Shepard, Lucien PrivalFirst Republic serial; sequel to "The Lost Jungle" (1934); later reissued as King of the Jungleland[53]
Undersea Kingdom12FantasyB. Reeves Eason and Joseph KaneRay (Crash) Corrigan, Lois Wilde, Smiley BurnetteLater released as a 100-minute feature version entitled Sharad of Atlantis[54]
The Vigilantes Are Coming12WesternRay Taylor and Mack V. WrightRobert Livingston, Ray Corrigan, Guinn "Big Boy" Williams, Raymond HattonLater re-edited into six 26-minute episodes for television
Robinson Crusoe of Clipper Island14MaritimeRay Taylor and Mack V. WrightMala, Rex, Mamo Clarkreleased in 1966 as a feature version called Robinson Crusoe of Mystery Island
Stage & Screen Productions (Weiss Bros.)Custer's Last Stand15WesternElmer CliftonRex Lease, Frank McGlynn Jr., Chief Thundercloudfeatures characters General Custer, Calamity Jane and Wild Bill Hickok
Stage & Screen Productions (Weiss Bros.)The Clutching Hand15MysteryAlbert HermanJack Mulhall, Mae Busch, Rex Lease, Richard AlexanderA Craig Kennedy mystery; also released as a 70-minute feature version[55]
Stage & Screen Productions (Weiss Bros.)The Black Coin15MysteryAlbert HermanRalph Graves, Ruth Mix, Dave O'Brien, Yakima Canutt
Universal PicturesThe Adventures of Frank Merriwell12SportsFord Beebe and Clifford SmithDonald Briggs, Jean Rogers, Carla LaemmleBased on the Frank Merriwell novels by Gilbert Patten
Flash Gordon13Science fictionFrederick StephaniBuster Crabbe, Jean Rogers, Frank Shannon, Charles Middleton, Glenn Strange (as "the Gocko")Based on the comic strip by Alex Raymond; later re-released as two different feature versions, "Rocket Ship" (72 min.) and "Spaceship to the Unknown" (90 min.)[56]
The Phantom Rider15WesternRay TaylorBuck Jones, Charles King
Ace Drummond13AviationFord Beebe and Clifford SmithJohn King, Jean Rogers, Noah Beery Jr., Lon Chaney Jr.Based on a comic strip by Eddie Rickenbacker
Victory Pictures (Sam Katzman)Shadow of Chinatown15Mystery, Yellow perilRobert F. HillBela Lugosi, Herman BrixAlso exists as a feature version
1937
Columbia PicturesJungle Menace15JungleHarry L. Fraser and George MelfordFrank Buck
Charlotte Henry[57]
First Columbia serial (produced by Weiss Bros.); later released as a 70-minute feature version called "Jungle Terror".
The Mysterious Pilot15AviationSpencer Gordon BennetFrank HawksProduced by Weiss Brothers; based on a novel "The Silver Hawk" by William Byron Mowery[58]
Republic PicturesDick Tracy15CrimeAlan James, Ray TaylorRalph Byrd, Smiley Burnette, Kay HughesBased on the famous comic strip by Chester Gould
The Painted Stallion12WesternAlan James, William Witney, Ray TaylorRay Corrigan, Hoot Gibson, Duncan Renaldo, Yakima CanuttFeatured characters Kit Carson, Jim Bowie and Davy Crockett; later re-edited into a six-episode TV series, as well as a 72-minute feature version[59]
S.O.S. Coast Guard12Maritime, Science fictionAlan James, William WitneyRalph Byrd, Bela Lugosi, Richard AlexanderAlso exists as a 71-minute feature version including some newly added footage
Zorro Rides Again12WesternWilliam Witney, John EnglishJohn Carroll, Noah Beery, Duncan Renaldo, Richard Alexander Based on the Zorro character created by novelist Johnston McCulley; later released as a six-episode TV series, as well as a 68-minute eponymous feature version.[60]
Universal PicturesJungle Jim12JungleFord Beebe and Clifford SmithGrant Withers, Henry Brandon, Raymond HattonBased on the popular comic strip by Alex Raymond
Secret Agent X-912CrimeFord Beebe and Clifford SmithScott Kolk, Jean Rogers, Henry Brandon, Lon Chaney Jr.Based on the comic strip by Dashiell Hammett and Alex Raymond
Wild West Days13WesternFord Beebe and Clifford SmithJohnny Mack Brown, Chief ThundercloudBased on the novel "Saint Johnson" by William R. Burnett[61]
Radio Patrol12CrimeFord Beebe and Clifford SmithGrant Withers, Robert ArmstrongBased on the popular comic strip by Eddie Sullivan and Charles Schmidt[62]
Tim Tyler's Luck12JungleFord Beebe and Wyndham GittensFrankie Thomas, William BenedictBased on the popular comic strip created by Lyman Young [63]
Victory Pictures (Sam Katzman)Blake of Scotland Yard15CrimeRobert F. HillRalph Byrd, Joan Barclay, Dickie JonesLast independent American serial; also released as a 73-minute feature version
1938
Columbia PicturesThe Secret of Treasure Island15JungleElmer CliftonDon Terry, Gwen Gaze, Walter Miller, Grant WithersLast serial produced by Weiss Bros.; based on a serialized story "Murder at Pirate Castle" (1936) by L. Ron Hubbard; Bela Lugosi was originally slated to co-star[64]
The Great Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok15WesternMack V. Wright and Sam NelsonWilliam Elliott, Frankie Darro, Dickie Jones, Ray Mala, Chief Thundercloud, Kenne Duncan
The Spider's Web15SuperheroRay Taylor and James W. HorneWarren Hull, Kenne Duncan, Iris Meredith, Nestor Paiva, Byron FoulgerBased on a popular 1930s pulp magazine; followed by a sequel The Spider Returns (1941)[65]
Republic PicturesThe Lone Ranger15WesternWilliam Witney and John EnglishLee Powell, Chief Thundercloud, Herman Brix, Lane ChandlerBased on the popular 1930s radio program; later released as a 69-minute feature version called Hi-Yo Silver[66]
The Fighting Devil Dogs12Science fictionWilliam Witney and John EnglishLee Powell, Herman BrixLater re-edited into a 69-minute feature version for TV, retitled Torpedo of Doom
Dick Tracy Returns15CrimeWilliam Witney and John EnglishRalph Byrd, Charles Middleton, David SharpeBased on the famous comic strip by Chester Gould; re-released theatrically in July 1948
Hawk of the Wilderness12JungleWilliam Witney and John EnglishHerman Brix, Mala, Monte Blue, Noble Johnsonbased on the novel by William L. Chester[67] later re-edited and released to TV as The Lost Island of Kioga
Universal StudiosFlash Gordon's Trip to Mars15Science fictionFrederick StephaniBuster Crabbe, Jean Rogers, Charles Middleton, Frank Shannon, Richard alexander, Kenne DuncanBased on the comic strip by Alex Raymond; later retitled Space Soldiers' Trip to Mars for TV release
Flaming Frontiers15WesternAlan James and Ray TaylorJohnny Mack Brown, Charles Middleton, Chief Thundercloudbased on "The Tie That Binds" (a novel) by Peter B. Kyne; later re-edited for TV release in 1966
Red Barry13CrimeAlan JamesBuster Crabbe, Wheeler Oakman, Philip AhnBased on the comic strip by Will Gould[68]
1939
Columbia PicturesFlying G-Men15AviationRay Taylor and James W. HorneRobert Paige, Richard Fiske, James Craig, Lorna Gray
Mandrake the Magician12FantasySam Nelson and Norman DemingWarren Hull, Al KikumeBased on the popular comic strip created by Lee Falk
Overland with Kit Carson15WesternSam Nelson and Norman DemingBill Elliott, Richard Fiske, Iris Meredith, Kenne Duncan
Republic PicturesThe Lone Ranger Rides Again15WesternWilliam Witney and John EnglishRobert Livingston, Chief Thundercloud, Glenn Strange, Duncan RenaldoBased on the popular 1930s "Lone Ranger" radio program
Daredevils of the Red Circle12AdventureWilliam Witney and John EnglishCharles Quigley, Herman Brix, David Sharpe, Carole Landis, Charles MiddletonLater re-edited into six 26-minute episodes for television[69]
Dick Tracy's G-Men15CrimeWilliam Witney and John EnglishRalph Byrd, Irving Pichel, Ted Pearson, Phylis IsleyBased on the famous comic strip by Chester Gould; re-released theatrically in Sept., 1955[70]
Zorro's Fighting Legion12WesternWilliam Witney and John EnglishReed HadleyBased on the Zorro character created by novelist Johnston McCulley; later re-edited into six 26-minute episodes for TV
Universal PicturesScouts to the Rescue12Boy scoutsAlan James and Ray TaylorJackie Cooper, Jason Robards Sr., Bill Cody Jr.
Buck Rogers12Science fictionFord Beebe and Saul A. GoodkindBuster Crabbe, Henry Brandon, Philson Ahn, Anthony Warde, Constance Moore, Jackie Moran, Kenne DuncanBased on the popular comic strip by Philip Francis Nowlan; later re-edited into 2 separate feature versions, Destination Saturn and Planet Outlaws[71]
The Oregon Trail15WesternFord Beebe and Saul A. GoodkindJohnny Mack Brown, Fuzzy Knight, Roy Barcroft
The Phantom Creeps12Science fictionFord Beebe and Saul A. GoodkindBela Lugosi, Edward Van Sloan, Regis Toomey, Ed Wolff (as the Robot)Also exists as a 78-minute feature version; contains stock footage from The Invisible Ray (1936)[72]

1940s

Production CompanyTitleChaptersGenreDirectorCastNotes
1940
Columbia PicturesThe Shadow15Crime/ SuperheroJames W. HorneVictor Jory, Robert Fiske, Veda Ann BorgBased on the radio program and pulp magazine series
Terry and the Pirates15JungleJames W. HorneWilliam Tracy, Granville OwenBased on the "Terry and the Pirates" newspaper comic strip created by Milton Caniff
Deadwood Dick15WesternJames W. HorneDon Douglas
Lane Chandler
Lorna Gray
Kenne Duncan
Character loosely based on "Zorro"[73]
The Green Archer15MysteryJames W. HorneVictor Jory, Iris Meredith, James Craven, Kenne DuncanBased on the 1923 novel by Edgar Wallace[74]
Republic PicturesDrums of Fu Manchu15Yellow Peril
Mystery
William Witney and John EnglishHenry Brandon, Olaf Hytton, William Royle, Dwight FryeBased on the character created by Sax Rohmer; also released as a 69-minute feature version with an altered ending[75] [76]
Adventures of Red Ryder12WesternWilliam Witney and John EnglishDon "Red" Barry, Noah Beery Sr., Tommy Cook, Maude Pierce AllenBased on the western comic strip by Fred Harmon[77]
King of the Royal Mounted12NorthernWilliam Witney and John EnglishAllan Lane, Robert Strange, Herbert RawlinsonBased on the comic strip written by Zane Grey; also released as a 68-minute feature version called The Yukon Patrol[78]
Mysterious Doctor Satan15SuperheroWilliam Witney and John EnglishEduardo Ciannelli, Robert Wilcox, C. Montague Shaw, Tom Steele (as the Robot)Features a hero called "The Copperhead"; originally written as a never-produced Republic "Superman" serial; later re-edited into a seven episode TV series, as well as a 100-minute feature version called Doctor Satan's Robot[79] [80]
Universal PicturesThe Green Hornet13Crime/SuperheroRay Taylor and Ford BeebeGordon Jones, Keye Luke, Anne NagelBased on the popular radio program by George W. Trendle and Fran Striker; some home video versions are heavily edited
Flash Gordon Conquers the Universe12Science fiction/SuperheroRay Taylor and Ford BeebeBuster Crabbe, Carol Hughes, Charles Middleton, Frank Shannon, Ray MalaBased on the famous comic strip by Alex Raymond; later released as three separate re-edited feature versions, entitled "Purple Death from Outer Space", "Perils from the Planet Mongo" and "Space Soldiers Conquer the Universe".[81]
Winners of the West13WesternRay Taylor and Ford BeebeDick Foran, Anne Nagel, Roy Barcroft
Junior G-Men12CrimeJohn Rawlins and Ford BeebeDead End Kids, Little Tough Guys, David Sharpe
1941
Columbia PicturesWhite Eagle15WesternJames W. HorneBuck Jones, Raymond Hatton, Dorothy Fay, Kenne DuncanRemake of a 1932 Buck Jones western film also called "White Eagle"
The Spider Returns15Crime/ SuperheroJames W. HorneWarren Hull, Kenne Duncan, Mary AinsleeBased on the 1930s pulp magazine character "The Spider"; sequel to The Spider's Web (1938); an 80-minute feature version exists that was shown in England
The Iron Claw15MysteryJames W. HorneCharles Quigley, Joyce Bryant, Alex Callam
Holt of the Secret Service15CrimeJames W. HorneJack Holt, Evelyn Brent, Tristram Coffin
Republic PicturesAdventures of Captain Marvel12SuperheroWilliam Witney and John EnglishTom Tyler, William Benedict, Louise Currie, Kenne DuncanBased on the popular Captain Marvel comic book series; later reissued to theaters in 1953 as Return of Captain Marvel
Jungle Girl15JungleWilliam Witney and John EnglishFrances Gifford, Tom Neal, Gerald Mohr, Emil Van Horn (as the Gorilla)Based on the 1932 novel "Jungle Girl" by Edgar Rice Burroughs; re-released to theaters in 1947; followed by a sequel The Perils of Nyoka (1942)
King of the Texas Rangers12WesternWilliam Witney and John EnglishSlingin' Sammy Baugh, Neil Hamilton, Duncan Renaldo, Kenne DuncanLater re-edited into six 26-minute episodes for television[82]
Dick Tracy vs. Crime, Inc.15CrimeWilliam Witney and John EnglishRalph Byrd, Ralph Morgan, John Davidson, Jan WileyBased on the famous comic strip by Chester Gould; later re-released theatrically in 1952 as Dick Tracy vs. Phantom Empire; featured stock footage from Deluge (1933)
Universal PicturesThe Green Hornet Strikes Again!15Crime/SuperheroJohn Rawlins and Ford BeebeWarren Hull, Keye Luke, Anne NagelBased on the Green Hornet radio program by George W. Trendle and Fran Striker
Sky Raiders12AviationRay Taylor and Ford BeebeDonald Woods, Billy Halop, Robert Armstrong, Eduardo Ciannelli
Riders of Death Valley15WesternRay Taylor and Ford BeebeBuck Jones, Dick Foran, Leo Carrillo, Lon Chaney Jr., Glenn Strange, Roy Barcroft, Richard Alexander
Sea Raiders12MaritimeRay Taylor and Ford BeebeThe Dead End Kids and the Little Tough Guys, Richard Alexander
1942
Columbia PicturesCaptain Midnight15SuperheroJames W. HorneDave O'Brien, James CravenBased on the "Captain Midnight" radio adventure serial broadcast from 1938 to 1949
Perils of the Royal Mounted15WesternJames W. HorneRobert Kellard, Kenneth MacDonald, Iron Eyes Cody, Kermit Maynard
The Secret Code15SpySpencer Gordon BennetPaul Kelly, Anne Nagel, Frank Shannon, Kenne DuncanFeatures a hero called "The Black Commando"[83]
The Valley of Vanishing Men15WesternSpencer Gordon BennetBill Elliott, Slim Summerville, Kenne Duncan
Republic PicturesSpy Smasher12War SuperheroWilliam WitneyKane Richmond, Tristram Coffin, Marguerite ChapmanBased on the Fawcett Comics "Spy Smasher" character; later released to TV as a 100-minute feature version Spy Smasher Returns
Perils of Nyoka15JungleWilliam WitneyKay Aldridge, Clayton Moore, Lorna Gray, Charles Middleton, Tristram Coffin, William Benedict, Kenne DuncanBased on the 1932 Edgar Rice Burroughs novel "Jungle Girl"; later re-released to theatres in 1952 as "Nyoka and the Tiger Men"; later released to TV as a 100-minute feature version called "Nyoka and the Lost Secrets of Hippocrates"
King of the Mounties12NorthernWilliam WitneyAllan Lane, Peggy DrakeOriginally intended to be the 2nd Spy Smasher serial; recently restored by SerialSquadron.com, completing Chapter Three.[84]
Universal PicturesDon Winslow of the Navy12MaritimeRay Taylor and Ford BeebeDon Terry, Anne NagelBased on the popular comic strip by Commander Frank V. Martinek
Gang Busters13CrimeRay Taylor and Noel M. SmithKent Taylor. Irene Hervey, Ralph Morgan, Robert ArmstrongBased on the popular "Gang Busters" radio program; re-released theatrically in 1949[85]
Junior G-Men of the Air12AviationRay Taylor, Lewis D. CollinsThe Dead End Kids, Turhan Bey, William Benedict, Lionel Atwill, Frankie Darro
Overland Mail15WesternJohn Rawlins and Ford BeebeLon Chaney Jr., Noah Beery Sr., Noah Beery Jr., Don Terry, Bob BakerBased on the short story by Johnston McCulley; later released as a feature version called "The Indian Raiders"
1943
Columbia PicturesBatman15SuperheroLambert HillyerLewis Wilson, Douglas Croft, J. Carrol Naish, Charles Middleton, Kenne DuncanBased on the popular comic book series from DC Comics; reissued theatrically in 1965
The Phantom15Jungle/ SuperheroB. Reeves EasonTom Tyler, Jeanne Bates, frank ShannonBased on Lee Falk's popular newspaper comic strip ; followed by a 1955 sequel The Adventures of Capt. Africa[86]
Republic PicturesG-Men vs The Black Dragon15SpySpencer Gordon BennetRod Cameron, Roland Got, George J. LewisLater released as a 100-minute feature version called Black Dragon of Manzanar; followed by a 1943 sequel called Secret Service in Darkest Africa
Daredevils of the West12WesternJohn EnglishAllan Lane, Kay Aldridge, Chief Thundercloud, Jay Silverheels, Kenne DuncanFilm was incomplete for years, but was restored and released on DVD in 2011
Secret Service in Darkest Africa15SpySpencer Gordon BennetRod Cameron, Duncan Renaldo, Joan MarshLater re-released theatrically in 1954 as Manhunt in the African Jungles; later released as a feature version called The Baron's African War
The Masked Marvel12SuperheroSpencer Gordon BennetTom Steele, Louis Currie, Tom Steele, Johnny ArthurLater released as a 100-minute feature version called Sakima and the Masked Marvel
Universal PicturesThe Adventures of Smilin' Jack13AviationRay Taylor, Lewis D. CollinsTom Brown, Keye Luke, Sidney Toler, Turhan Bey, Jay NovelloBased on the popular newspaper comic strip by Zack Mosley
Don Winslow of the Coast Guard13WarRay Taylor and Lewis D. CollinsDon Terry, Philip Ahn, Nestor Paiva, Walter SandeBased on the popular newspaper comic strip "Don Winslow of the Navy" by Frank V. Martinbek
Adventures of the Flying Cadets13AviationRay Taylor and Lewis D. CollinsJohnny Downs, Bobby Jordan, Robert Armstrong, William Benedict, Robert Armstrong, Billy Halop, Eduardo Ciannelli, Ian Keith
1944
Columbia PicturesThe Desert Hawk15AdventureB. Reeves EasonGilbert Roland, Charles Middleton, Chief Thundercloud, Elmo Lincoln
Black Arrow15WesternB. Reeves Eason and Lew LandersRobert Scott, Charles Middleton, Elmo Lincoln
Republic PicturesCaptain America15SuperheroElmer Clifton and John EnglishDick Purcell, Lionel Atwill, Edward Van Sloan, Lorna Gray, Kenne DuncanBased on the popular comic book series by Marvel Comics; the chapters were re-released theatrically in 1953 as The Return of Captain America
The Tiger Woman12JungleSpencer Gordon BennetLinda Stirling, Allan Lane, Duncan Renaldo, George J. Lewis, Kenne DuncanRe-released theatrically in 1951 as Perils of the Darkest Jungle; released in 1966 as a feature version called Jungle Gold
Haunted Harbor 15MaritimeSpencer Gordon BennetKane Richmond, Roy Barcroft, Kay Aldridge, Kenne DuncanBased on the novel by Ewart Adamson (aka Dayle Douglas); re-released theatrically in 1951 as Pirates' Harbor
Zorro's Black Whip12WesternSpencer Gordon BennetLinda Stirling, Francis McDonald, George J. LewisBased on the Zorro character created by Johnston McCulley, but due to legalities, the character was called "The Black Whip" (not Zorro) in this serial; re-released theatrically in 1957[87]
Universal PicturesThe Great Alaskan Mystery13MysteryRay Taylor and Lewis D. CollinsMilburn Stone, Martin Kosleck, Ralph Morgan, Edgar Kennedy, Fuzzy Knight
Raiders of Ghost City13WesternRay Taylor and Lewis D. CollinsDennis Moore, Lionel Atwill, Wanda McKay, Virginia Christine
Mystery of the River Boat13WesternRay Taylor and Lewis D. CollinsRobert Lowery, Mantan Moreland, Lyle Talbot
1945
End of the Golden Age of Serials
Columbia PicturesBrenda Starr, Reporter13CrimeWallace FoxJoan Woodbury, Kane Richmond, Syd Saylor, Wheeler OakmanBased on the popular comic strip created by Dale Messick
The Monster and the Ape15Science fictionHoward BrethertonRobert Lowery, Ralph Morgan, Willie Best, Ray Corrigan (as the Ape)
Jungle Raiders15JungleLesley SelanderKane Richmond, Carol Hughes, Charles King, Veda Ann Borg
Who's Guilty?15MysteryHoward Bretherton and Wallace GrissellRobert Kent, Amelita Ward, Charles Middleton, Minerva Urecal
Republic PicturesManhunt of Mystery Island15Jungle/ science fictionSpencer Gordon BennetLinda Stirling, Richard Bailey, Roy Barcroft, Kenne DuncanRe-released theatrically in 1956; later released as a 100-minute feature version called Captain Mephisto and the Transformation Machine
Federal Operator 9912CrimeSpencer Gordon BennetMarten Lamont, Helen Talbot, Lorna Gray, George J. LewisRe-released theatrically in 1956; later reissued as a feature version called F.B.I. 99[88]
The Purple Monster Strikes15Science fictionSpencer Gordon Bennet and Fred C. BrannonLinda Stirling, Dennis Moore, Roy Barcroft, James Craven, Kenne DuncanRe-released theatrically in 1957; later released as a 100-minute feature version called D-Day on Mars
Universal PicturesJungle Queen13JungleRay Taylor and Lewis D. CollinsRuth Roman, Edward Norris, Douglas Dumbrille, Clarence MuseLater re-edited into a feature version called Jungle Safari in 1956
The Master Key13CrimeRay Taylor and Lewis D. CollinsMilburn Stone, Lash Larue, Dennis Moore, Byron Foulger
Secret Agent X-913SpyRay Taylor and Lewis D. CollinsLloyd Bridges, Keye Luke, Samuel S. HindsBased on the comic strip created by Dashiell Hammett and Alex Raymond
The Royal Mounted Rides Again13NorthernRay Taylor and Lewis D. CollinsBill Kennedy, George Dolenz, Milburn Stone, Robert Armstrong
1946
Columbia PicturesHop Harrigan15AviationDerwin AbrahamsWilliam Bakewell, Wheeler Oakman, Jennifer HoltBased on the "Hop Harrigan" comic book published by DC Comics
Chick Carter, Detective15CrimeDerwin AbrahamsLyle Talbot, George Meeker, Charles King, Pamela BlakeBased on the popular radio program "Chick Carter, Boy Detective"
Son of the Guardsman15Medieval adventureDerwin AbrahamsBob Shaw, Robert "Buzz" Henry, Jock MahoneyBased on the Robin Hood legend (but Robin Hood is not a character in the film)
Republic PicturesThe Phantom Rider12WesternSpencer Gordon Bennet and Fred C. BrannonRobert Kent, Peggy Stewart, Kenne Duncan, Roy Barcroft, Chief Thundercloudlater re-released theatrically in 1954 as "Ghost Riders of the West"[89]
King of the Forest Rangers12NorthernSpencer Gordon Bennet and Fred C. BrannonLarry Thompson, Helen Talbot, Anthony WardeLater re-edited into six 26-minute episodes for television
Daughter of Don Q12CrimeSpencer Gordon Bennet and Fred C. BrannonLorna Gray, Kirk Alyn, LeRoy Mason, Roy BarcroftFeatures a female "Zorro" character called Dolores Quantero
The Crimson Ghost12Science fictionWilliam Witney and Fred C. BrannonCharles Quigley, Linda Stirling, Clayton Moore, Kenne Duncan, I. Stanford Jolley Also released to TV in the 1950s as a six-episode TV program; later released as a 100-minute feature version called Cyclotrode X; one of the few serials ever to be colorized on home video
Universal PicturesThe Scarlet Horseman13WesternRay Taylor and Lewis D. CollinsPaul Guilfoyle, Virginia Christine, Kenne Duncan
Lost City of the Jungle13JungleRay Taylor and Lewis D. CollinsRussell Hayden, Jane Adams, Lionel Atwill, Keye Luke(Atwill died during filming)
The Mysterious Mr. M13Science fictionLewis D. Collins and Vernon KeaysRichard Martin, Pamela Blake, Dennis MooreLast Universal serial
1947
Columbia PicturesJack Armstrong15Science fictionWallace FoxJohn Hart, Rosemary LaPlanche, Pierre Watkin, Wheeler Oakman, Charles MiddletonBased on the popular radio program "Jack Armstrong, the All-American Boy"
The Vigilante15Western/ SuperheroWallace FoxRalph Byrd, Ramsay Ames, Lyle TalbotBased on the DC Comics character, The Vigilante (character)
The Sea Hound15MaritimeWalter B. Eason and Mack V. WrightBuster Crabbe, Jimmy Lloyd, Pamela BlakeBased on the 1940s radio program The Sea Hound featuring the seafaring character Capt. Silver[90]
Brick Bradford15Science fictionSpencer Gordon BennetKane Richmond, Rick Vallin, Carol Forman, John Merton, John HartBased on the Brick Bradford newspaper comic strip created by Clarence Gray[91]
Republic PicturesSon of Zorro13WesternSpencer Gordon Bennet and Fred C. BrannonGeorge Turner, Peggy Stewart, Roy BarcroftBased on the Zorro character created by novelist Johnston McCulley; later re-edited into six 26-minute episodes for television[92]
Jesse James Rides Again13WesternFred C. BrannonClayton Moore. Linda StirlingFirst of Republic's three "Jesse James" serials; re-released theatrically in March 1955 [93]
The Black Widow13SpySpencer Gordon Bennet and Fred C. BrannonBruce Edwards, Carol Forman, Ramsay Ames, Anthony Warde, I. Stanford JolleyAlso re-edited into six 26-minute episodes for TV; later released as a 100-minute feature version called "Sombra, the Spider Woman"
1948
Columbia PicturesTex Granger15WesternDerwin AbrahamsRobert Kellard, Peggy Stewart, Robert "Buzz" Henry, I. Stanford JolleyBased on a character in "Calling All Boys" (a comic book) and a novel called The Last Frontier by Courtney Ryley Cooper
Superman15SuperheroSpencer Gordon BennetKirk Alyn, Noel Neill, Pierre Watkin, Tommy Bond, Carol Forman, Herbert RawlinsonBased on the famous DC Comics comic book character; followed by a 1950 sequel Atom Man Vs. Superman
Congo Bill15JungleSpencer Gordon Bennet, Thomas CarrDon McGuire, Cleo Moore, Jack IngramBased on the famous DC Comics comic book character
Republic PicturesG-Men Never Forget12CrimeFred C. BrannonClayton Moore, Roy Barcroft, Ramsay AmesLater released as a 100-minute feature version entitled Code 645
Dangers of the Canadian Mounted12NorthernFred C. BrannonJim Bannon, Anthony Warde, Virginia BelmontRe-released theatrically in 1965; also released as a 100-minute feature version called R.C.M.P. and the Treasure of Genghis Khan[94]
Adventures of Frank and Jesse James13WesternFred C. Brannon, Yakima CanuttClayton Moore, Noel Neill, George J. Lewis, Steve DarrellRe-released theatrically in 1956
1949
Columbia PicturesBruce Gentry15Aviation, Science fictionSpencer Gordon Bennet, Thomas CarrTom Neal, Tristram Coffin, Forrest TaylorBased on the "Bruce Gentry" newspaper comic strip created by Ray Bailey
Batman and Robin15SuperheroSpencer Gordon BennetRobert Lowery, Johnny Duncan, Jane Adams, Lyle TalbotBased on the famous DC Comics comic book characters; re-released theatrically in 1965
Adventures of Sir Galahad15FantasySpencer Gordon BennetGeorge Reeves, Nelson Leigh, William Fawcett, Hugh ProsserBased on the King Arthur legend
Republic PicturesFederal Agents vs. Underworld, Inc12CrimeFred C. BrannonKirk Alyn, Rosemary Planche, Roy Barcroft, Carol Forman, Tristram CoffinLater released as a 100-minute feature version called "The Golden Hands of Kurigal"
Ghost of Zorro12WesternFred C. BrannonClayton Moore, Roy Barcroft, George J. Lewis, Based on the Zorro character created by novelist Johnston McCulley; later released as a 69-minute feature version as well[95]
King of the Rocket Men12Science fictionFred C. BrannonTristram Coffin, Mae Clarke, James Craven, I. Stanford JolleyInspired by the Buck Rogers serial character; re-released theatrically in 1956; released as a 65-minute feature version called Lost Planet Airman [96]
The James Brothers of Missouri12WesternFred C. BrannonNoel Neill, Keith Richards, Robert Bice, Roy Barcroft
Radar Patrol vs Spy King12SpyFred C. BrannonKirk Alyn, John Merton, Tristram Coffin, George J. Lewis

1950s

Production CompanyTitleChaptersGenreDirectorCastNotes
1950
Columbia PicturesCody of the Pony Express15WesternSpencer Gordon BennetJock Mahoney, Dickie Moore, Peggy Stewart, George J. LewisBased loosely on the life of Buffalo Bill Cody
Atom Man vs. Superman15SuperheroSpencer Gordon BennetKirk Alyn, Noel Neill, Lyle Talbot, Tommy BondBased on the Superman comic book character published by DC Comics
Pirates of the High Seas15Maritime/ JungleSpencer Gordon Bennet, Thomas CarrBuster Crabbe, Lois Hall, Tristram Coffin
Great Britain InstructionalThe Mystery of the Snakeskin Belt[97] 8Jungle adventureFrank CadmanColin Barlow, Ursula Strachey, Cyril WentzelBritish; Last independent serial; filmed in Zimbabwe[98]
Republic PicturesThe Invisible Monster12Science fictionFred C. BrannonRichard Webb, Aline Towne, Lane Bradford, Stanley PriceLater released as a 100-minute feature version called Slaves of the Invisible Monster
Desperadoes of the West12WesternFred C. BrannonRichard Powers, Roy Barcroft, I. Stanford Jolley
Flying Disc Man from Mars12Science fictionFred C. BrannonWalter Reed, Lois Collier, Harry Lauter, James CravenReuses the villain's costume from The Purple Monster Strikes (1945); later released as a 75-minute feature version called Missile Monsters[99]
1951
Columbia PicturesRoar of the Iron Horse15WesternSpencer Gordon Bennet, Thomas CarrJock Mahoney, Virginia Herrick, Myron Healy
Mysterious Island15Science fiction,
Fantasy
Spencer Gordon BennetRichard Crane, Marshall Reed, Karen Randle, Tom Tyler (uncredited)Based on The Mysterious Island by Jules Verne
15Science fictionSpencer Gordon Bennet, Wallace GrissellJudd Holdren, Larry Stewart, Gene Roth, Skelton KnaggsOnly serial adapted from a television program; reissued theatrically in 1958, 1960, and 1963
Republic PicturesDon Daredevil Rides Again12WesternFred C. BrannonKen Curtis, Roy Barcroft, Aline Townes, I. Stanford JolleySimilar in theme to Zorro; includes stock footage from Zorro's Black Whip (1944)
Government Agents vs. Phantom Legion12SpyFred C. BrannonWalter Reed, Mary Ellen Kay, Dick Curtis
1952
Columbia PicturesKing of the Congo15Jungle
Fantasy
Spencer Gordon Bennet, Wallace GrissellBuster Crabbe, Gloria Dea, Rick Vallin, Leonard PennBased on the 1950s Thun'da comic book series drawn by Frank Frazetta
Blackhawk15AviationSpencer Gordon Bennet, Fred F. SearsKirk Alyn, Carol Forman, Rick Vallin, John CrawfordBased on the Blackhawk DC Comics comic book series
Son of Geronimo15WesternSpencer Gordon BennetClayton Moore, Marshall Red, Rick Vallin, Rodd Redwing, Lyle Talbot
Republic PicturesRadar Men from the Moon12Science fictionFred C. BrannonGeorge D. Wallace, Aline Towne, Roy Barcroft, Clayton Moore1st appearance of "Commando Cody"; later released as a 100-minute feature version called Retik, the Moon Menace (some videos were also released under the title Commando Cody vs. the Moon Menace)[100]
Zombies of the Stratosphere12Science fictionFred C. BrannonJudd Holdren, Leonard Nimoy, Aline Towne, Lane Bradford, John CrawfordCommando Cody is called "Larry Martin" in this sequel to Radar Men From the Moon; later released as a 70-minute B&W feature version called Satan's Satellites; also available colorized on VHS Home Video at 93 minutes
1953
Columbia PicturesThe Lost Planet15Science fictionSpencer Gordon BennetJudd Holdren, Vivian Mason, Ted Thorpe, Gene RothSemi-sequel to the 1951 Captain Video serial
The Great Adventures of Captain Kidd15MaritimeDerwin Abrahams and Charles S. GouldRichard Crane, David Bruce, George Wallace, John Crawford, Marshall ReedLoosely based on the life story of Captain William Kidd
Republic PicturesJungle Drums of Africa12JungleFred C. BrannonPhyllis Coates, Clayton Moore, Johnny SpencerLater released as a feature version called U-238 and the Witch Doctor
12Science fictionFranklin Adreon, Fred C. Brannon, Harry KellerJudd Holdren, Richard Crane, Aline Towne, William Schallert, Lyle TalbotReleased first theatrically in 1953 as a 12-episode serial (each episode was self-contained), then later released to television in 1955 as a 12-episode television series
Canadian Mounties vs. Atomic Invaders12Mountie spyFranklin AdreonBill Henry, Susan Morrow, Arthur Space, Later released as a 100-minute feature version called Missile Base at Taniak
1954
Columbia PicturesGunfighters of the Northwest15NorthernSpencer Gordon Bennet, Charles S. GouldClayton Moore, Jock Mahoney, Phyllis Coates, Lyle Talbot, Marshall Reed, Rodd Redwing
Riding with Buffalo Bill15WesternSpencer Gordon BennetMarshall Reed, Rick Vallin, Shirley WhitneyIncludes stock footage from Deadwood Dick (1940)
Republic PicturesTrader Tom of the China Seas12MaritimeFranklin AdreonPhyllis Coates, Harry Lauter, Robert Shayne, Aline Towne, Lyle TalbotLater released as a 100-minute feature version called Target: Sea of China
Man with the Steel Whip12WesternFranklin AdreonRichard Simmons, Barbara Bestar, Roy Barcroft, Dale Van SickelFeatures a character called El Latigo, very similar to Zorro; used stock footage from all of the earlier Republic "Zorro" serials[101]
1955
Columbia PicturesThe Adventures of Captain Africa15JungleSpencer Gordon BennetJohn Hart, Rick Vallin, Ben WeldonIntended as a sequel to The Phantom; includes stock footage from The Phantom, Jungle Menace, and The Desert Hawk
Republic PicturesPanther Girl of the Kongo12JungleFranklin AdreonPhyllis Coates, Myron Healy, Arthur Space, David Sharpe (stunt double)Later released as a 100-minute feature version called The Claw Monsters; includes stock footage from Jungle Girl (serial) and Perils of Nyoka
King of the Carnival12CrimeFranklin AdreonHarry Lauter, Robert Shayne, Rick Vallin, Robert ClarkeLast Republic serial. Includes stock footage from Daredevils of the Red Circle
1956
Columbia PicturesPerils of the Wilderness15NorthernSpencer Gordon BennetDennis Moore, Richard Emory, Kenneth MacDonald, Rick VallinIncludes stock footage from Perils of the Royal Mounted
Blazing the Overland Trail15WesternSpencer Gordon BennetDennis Moore, Lee Roberts, Kermit Maynard, Norma BrooksLast Columbia serial; last major-studio serial; Includes stock footage from White Eagle (1941).
1957
ShintohoSuper Giant9SuperheroTeruo IshiiKen Utsui, Shōji NakayamaJapanese tokusatsu film serial; later released to U.S. television as four separate Starman features.

See also

External links

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Silent Era : Progressive Silent Film List. www.silentera.com. 4 October 2016.
  2. Web site: Arsene Lupin Contra Sherlock Holmes – The Arthur Conan Doyle Encyclopedia. www.arthur-conan-doyle.com. 4 October 2016.
  3. Web site: NitrateVille.com • View topic – What Happened to Mary? (1912)- Does any of it survive?. www.nitrateville.com. 6 October 2016.
  4. Web site: FIAF – International Federation of Film Archives. www.fiafnet.org. 6 October 2016.
  5. Web site: Silent Era : Progressive Silent Film List. www.silentera.com. 6 October 2016.
  6. Web site: Adventures of Kathlyn. chicagology.com. 6 October 2016.
  7. Web site: Silent Era : Progressive Silent Film List. www.silentera.com.
  8. Web site: Silent Era : Progressive Silent Film List. www.silentera.com. 6 October 2016.
  9. Web site: The Fantomas Website: The Films. Walz. Robin . etal . www.fantomas-lives.com. 6 October 2016.
  10. Harmon, Jim; Donald F. Glut (1973). "1. The Girls "Who Is That Girl in the Buzz Saw?"". The Great Movie Serials: Their Sound and Fury. Routledge. p. 8. .
  11. Web site: Progressive Silent Film List . Silent Era . 2020-04-01.
  12. Web site: Silent Era : Progressive Silent Film List. www.silentera.com.
  13. "Silent Era: The Iron Claw". Silent Era. Retrieved June 19, 2011.
  14. Web site: Silent Era : Progressive Silent Film List. www.silentera.com.
  15. Web site: Silent Era : Progressive Silent Film List. www.silentera.com.
  16. Web site: Silent Era : Progressive Silent Film List. www.silentera.com.
  17. Web site: Silent Era : Progressive Silent Film List. www.silentera.com.
  18. Web site: Silent Era : Progressive Silent Film List. www.silentera.com.
  19. Web site: Silent Era: PSFL: The Return of the Riddle Rider (1927) . silentera.com . 17 January 2022 . https://web.archive.org/web/20020321094939/http://silentera.com/PSFL/data/R/ReturnoftheRiddleRider1927.html . 21 March 2002 . dead.
  20. Web site: Silent Era : Progressive Silent Film List. www.silentera.com.
  21. Web site: Silent Era : Progressive Silent Film List. www.silentera.com.
  22. Web site: Silent Era : Home Video Reviews. www.silentera.com.
  23. Web site: Silent Era : Progressive Silent Film List. www.silentera.com.
  24. Web site: Silent Era : Progressive Silent Film List. www.silentera.com.
  25. Web site: Silent Era : Progressive Silent Film List. www.silentera.com.
  26. Web site: Silent Era : Progressive Silent Film List. www.silentera.com.
  27. Web site: Progressive Silent Film List: The Blue Fox . February 19, 2008. Silent Era.
  28. Harmon, Jim; Donald F. Glut (1973). "8. The Detectives "Gangbusters!"". The Great Movie Serials: Their Sound and Fury. Routledge. p. 181. .
  29. "Progressive Silent Film List: The Crimson Flash". Silent Era. Retrieved February 16, 2008.
  30. "Progressive Silent Film List: The Fire Fighters". Silent Era. Retrieved August 22, 2008.
  31. "Progressive Silent Film List: The Return of the Riddle Rider". Silent Era. Retrieved November 15, 2008.
  32. Lahue, Kalton C. Continued Next Week: A History of the Moving Picture Serial. Stillwater, Okla.: University of Oklahoma Press, 1964; Langman, Larry. Return to Paradise: A Guide to South Sea Island Films. Lanham, Md.: Scarecrow Press, 1998.
  33. Web site: Progressive Silent Film List: The Vanishing Rider . April 13, 2008. Silent Era.
  34. "Progressive Silent Film List: The Fatal Warning". Silent Era. Retrieved February 17, 2008.
  35. Web site: King of the Kongo film and sound restoration. Kickstarter.
  36. Lowe, Denise (2004). An Encyclopedic Dictionary of Women in Early American Films, 1895-1930. Haworth Press. pp. 234–236. .
  37. Cline, William C. In the Nick of Time: Motion Picture Sound Serials. McFarland & Company, 1997, pg. 10;
  38. News: Rin Tin Tin: A Silent Film Star On Four Legs. Susan. Orlean. NPR.org.
  39. "Miscellaneous notes: 'The Shadow of the Eagle' (1932)." TCM, 2019
  40. Cline, William C. (1984). "Filmography". In the Nick of Time. McFarland & Company, Inc. .
  41. Web site: LAST FRONTIER, THE (1932/Alpha) - DVD .
  42. Cline, William C. (1984). "In Search of Ammunition". In the Nick of Time. McFarland & Company, Inc. p. 10. .
  43. Cline, William C. (1984). "2. In Search of Ammunition". In the Nick of Time. McFarland & Company, Inc. pp. 11. .
  44. Orlean, Susan (2011). Rin Tin Tin: The Life and the Legend. New York: Simon & Schuster. .
  45. Web site: Silent Era : Home Video Reviews. www.silentera.com.
  46. "Looking Back," Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, February 26, 1934.
  47. Holtz, Allan (2012). American Newspaper Comics: An Encyclopedic Reference Guide. Ann Arbor: The University of Michigan Press. p. 374.
  48. Broughton, Lee (September 19, 2016). Critical Perspectives on the Western: From A Fistful of Dollars to Django Unchained. Rowman & Littlefield. p. 29. .
  49. Erish, Andrew A. (2012). Col. William N. Selig, the Man Who Invented Hollywood. University of Texas Press. p. 127. .
  50. Cline, William C. (1984). "Filmography". In the Nick of Time. McFarland & Company, Inc. pp. 212. .
  51. Harmon, Jim; Donald F. Glut (1973). "6. Jungle "Look Out The Elephants Are Coming!"". The Great Movie Serials: Their Sound and Fury. Routledge. p. 132. .
  52. http://www.imagesjournal.com/issue04/infocus/introduction4.htm Images
  53. Cline, William C. (1984). "Filmography". In the Nick of Time. McFarland & Company, Inc. p. 210. .
  54. Cline, William C. (1984). "Filmography". In the Nick of Time. McFarland & Company, Inc. p. 215. .
  55. Pitts, Michael R. Poverty Row Studios, 1929-1940: An Illustrated History of 55 Independent Film Companies McFarland & Co., 2005
  56. Kennard, Roy, Science Fiction Serials: A Critical Filmography of the 31 Hard SF Cliffhanger, McFarland & Co Inc, 1 October 1998, page 40
  57. Cline, William C. (1984). "Filmography". In the Nick of Time. McFarland & Company, Inc. pp. 218–219. .
  58. Weiss, Ken and Ed Goodgold. To Be Continued: A Complete Guide to Motion Picture Serials. New York: Bonanza Books, 1973. .
  59. Mathis, Jack (1995). Valley of the Cliffhangers Supplement. Jack Mathis Advertising. pp. 3, 10, 22–23. .
  60. Mathis, Jack (1995). Valley of the Cliffhangers Supplement. Jack Mathis Advertising. pp. 3, 10, 26–27. .
  61. Cline, William C. (1984). "2. In Search of Ammunition". In the Nick of Time. McFarland & Company, Inc. pp. 10. .
  62. Cline, William C. (1984). "2. In Search of Ammunition". In the Nick of Time. McFarland & Company, Inc. pp. 18. .
  63. Stedman, Raymond William (1971). "4. Perilous Saturdays". Serials: Suspense and Drama By Installment. University of Oklahoma Press. pp. 119. .
  64. Malko, George (1970). Scientology: The Now Religion. Delacorte Press. p. 38. .
  65. Stedman, Raymond William (1971). "5. Shazam and Good-by". Serials: Suspense and Drama By Installment. University of Oklahoma Press. pp. 122–123. .
  66. "Hi-Yo Silver". American Film Institute. Archived from the original on May 1, 2018.
  67. Web site: Authors : Chester, William L : SFE : Science Fiction Encyclopedia. www.sf-encyclopedia.com.
  68. Cline, William C. (1984). In the Nick of Time. McFarland & Company, Inc. .
  69. Mathis, Jack (1995). Valley of the Cliffhangers Supplement. Jack Mathis Advertising. pp. 3, 10, 38–.39. .
  70. Mathis, Jack (1995). Valley of the Cliffhangers Supplement. Jack Mathis Advertising. pp. 3, 10, 40–41. .
  71. Kinnard, Roy (1998). Science Fiction Serials: A Critical Filmography of the 31 Hard SF Cliffhangers. McFarland & Co. p. 69. .
  72. Stedman, Raymond William (1971). "3. At This Theater Next Week". Serials: Suspense and Drama By Installment. University of Oklahoma Press. p. 95. .
  73. Web site: Deadwood Dick (1940) - James W. Horne | Synopsis, Characteristics, Moods, Themes and Related | AllMovie .
  74. Web site: The Green Archer. gutenberg.net.au.
  75. Mathis, Jack (1995). Valley of the Cliffhangers Supplement. Jack Mathis Advertising. pp. 3, 10, 44–45. .
  76. Web site: Fu Manchu | fictional character. Encyclopedia Britannica.
  77. Web site: Red Ryder Comic Strip Created by Pagosa Springs Artist Fred Harman. The Archive.
  78. Web site: ZG Comics II: King of the Royal Mounted and Big Little Books. www.erbzine.com.
  79. Mathis, Jack. Valley of the Cliffhangers Supplement. Barrington, Illinois: Jack Mathis Advertising, 1995. .
  80. Book: Science Fiction Serials: A Critical Filmography of the 31 Hard SF Cliffhangers; with an Appendix of the 37 Serials with Slight SF Content. 9781476604138. Kinnard. Roy. 13 August 2015. McFarland .
  81. Harmon, Jim; Donald F. Glut (1973). "2. "We Come from 'Earth', Don't You Understand?"". The Great Movie Serials: Their Sound and Fury. Routledge. p. 44. .
  82. Mathis, Jack. Valley of the Cliffhangers Supplement. South Barrington, Illinois: Jack Mathis Advertising, 1995. .
  83. Harmon, Jim; Donald F. Glut (1973). "10. The Long-Underwear Boys "You've Met Me, Now Meet My Fist!"". The Great Movie Serials: Their Sound and Fury. Routledge. pp. 273–274. .
  84. Web site: Mountie Cliffhangers .
  85. Harmon, Jim; Donald F. Glut (1973). "8. The Detectives "Gangbusters!"". The Great Movie Serials: Their Sound and Fury. Routledge. p. 194. .
  86. Wollstein, Hans J. "Adventures of Captain Africa (1955)". The New York Times. Archived from the original on April 11, 2008. Retrieved 2011-02-28.
  87. Mathis, Jack (1995). Valley of the Cliffhangers Supplement. Jack Mathis Advertising. pp. 3, 10, 80–81. .
  88. Mathis, Jack (1995). Valley of the Cliffhangers Supplement. Jack Mathis Advertising. pp. 3, 10, 84–85. .
  89. Mathis, Jack (1995). Valley of the Cliffhangers Supplement. Jack Mathis Advertising. pp. 3, 10, 88–89. .
  90. Hickerson, Jay. The Ultimate History of Network Radio Programming and Guide to All Circulating Shows. Hamden, Connecticut: Jay Hickerson, Box 4321, Hamden, CT 06514, second edition December 1992, page 355.
  91. Holtz, Allan (2012). American Newspaper Comics: An Encyclopedic Reference Guide. Ann Arbor: The University of Michigan Press. p. 83. .
  92. Mathis, Jack (1995). Valley of the Cliffhangers Supplement. Jack Mathis Advertising. pp. 3, 10, 96–97. .
  93. Mathis, Jack (1995). Valley of the Cliffhangers Supplement. Jack Mathis Advertising. pp. 3, 10, 98–99. .
  94. Rainey, Buck (June 8, 2015). Serials and Series: A World Filmography, 1912-1956. .
  95. Mathis, Jack (1995). Valley of the Cliffhangers Supplement. Jack Mathis Advertising. pp. 3, 10, 110–111. .
  96. Harmon, Jim and Donald F. Glut. "8. The Detectives "Gangbusters!"; "9. The Superheroes "Could Superman Knock Out Captain Marvel"; "11. New Masks for New Heroes "Get That Masked Trouble Maker". The Great Movie Serials: Their Sound and Fury. London: Routledge Publishing, 1973. .
  97. [:pt:The Mystery of the Snakeskin Belt]
  98. The Children's Newspaper, 11 September 1948
  99. Mathis, Jack. Valley of the Cliffhangers Supplement. South Barrington, Illinois: Jack Mathis Advertising, 1995. . pg. 122-123.
  100. Mathis, Jack (1995). Valley of the Cliffhangers Supplement. Jack Mathis Advertising. pp. 3, 10, 128–129. .
  101. Harmon, Jim; Donald F. Glut (1973). "12. The Westerns "Who Was That Masked Man!"". The Great Movie Serials: Their Sound and Fury. Routledge. p. 300. .