A tight 1964 Western based on a Clair Huffaker novel, translated
to the screen by Joseph Landon and directed by Gordon Douglas.
The cast is led by a superlative Richard Boone, with
an early and impressive appearance by Jim Brown and Tony Franciosa having a
blast in a “never cast it that way these days” role.
The late Elmore Leonard was once asked what actor gave
voice to his dialogue as he conceived it—he said, one man, Richard Boone.
Boone’s performance is nearly the entire show here. From
leer, to snarl, to quiet moment, to tough or incredulous line readings—top hand
the entire way.
Unfortunately, what keeps this film from traipsing into
A territory is a wooden performance by Stuart Whitman. His cavalry officer is
so ramrod straight and present in too many scene to really shake off this
imposing effect.
But…what is good here, is very good.
Well worth a look or a second look for those who are
already fans of tough-minded westerns.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.