Kit & Co. (1974)

At the end of the 19th century, Christopher Bellew, known as Kit, works as a journalist for the magazine “Billow” in San Francisco. When he hears about the gold discoveries in Alaska, he tries to persuade his boss, O’Hara, to let him go north as a reporter. When O’Hara turns him down, Kit quits that same day and sets off for “Gold Country.” Soon after arriving, he meets the attractive Joy, daughter of successful prospector Louis Gastell. A short time later, Kit heads inland and is confronted with Alaska’s harsh weather. When he collapses in the pouring rain, prospector Shorty helps him, and the two continue on together. In Dawson City, Kit starts a fight with the experienced prospector Wild Water Bill out of jealousy. He shares a small cabin with Shorty and can afford only very modest meals. But that soon changes when Kit discovers a system at roulette and wins thousands of dollars. They acquire a new cabin, good food, and excellent equipment. After they have won a huge sum, Kit sells his supposed system to the owner, Slavovitz (the roulette wheel had warped because the gaming table was too close to the stove). On their way to a creek where gold has reportedly been found, a trick by Joy and her father keeps them away, and they come away empty-handed. After the two narrowly escape being hanged despite being innocent, they set out in search of “Surprise Lake” and actually discover it, earning fame as prospectors. Meanwhile, Shorty and Kit have reconciled with the Gastells, and they get a tip that a dog race for a million dollars is taking place. They buy the best dog sleds; Kit and Wild Water Bill cross the finish line neck and neck. The money is divided, and Joy gets Kit all to herself.