Although its in the hands of a competent western director I get tired of western leading men (e.g. Stewart and Wayne) being from the goodie goodie school – its a pity because this has a good compact story with Arthur Kennedy in support.
Because there is no plot to speak of its left to Kristin and the Montana scenery to carry it through but as the hours pass even they wilt. Some good old slow motion action scenes contribute to the excitement.
As a character study it doesn't go to any great depth. The screenplay is a bit stagey and Newman gets the dramatics at times. The set design of the town is well done and the black and white photography is easy on the eye.
Two and a half hours of violence and special effects. Talented actors Irons and Hunter only have cameos and their names are probably used for marketing purposes.
A well put together documentary employing both re–enactments and valuable historical film/photographs. Frank Worsley's efforts make climbing Everest a walk in the park.
Eighty years on some of the scenes – around the famine and the plague – have stood the test of time. The photography is good but its hard putting up with Muni's unsympathetic character for over two hours.
The casting and performances are spot on for the excellent screenplay. The best scenes involve Shelley Winters and/or Wallace Ford. The black and white photography helps.
As far as rock bands go I've always filed Pink Floyd under Intelligent. This film is a free flowing "you don't know whats going to happen next" experience.