The mythic settings, the outlaw showdown, John Wayne (dat intro zoom!), the cowboys-and-Indians shootout, the saloons, the individualism and post-Civil War politics: This is a quintessential classic western film, one of the greats.
What really makes the movie so entertaining is the cast of characters and script. With shaded characters that provide a cross section of classes and values, all bouncing off each other in a tiny carriage, this is like a Wild West Breakfast Club.
Of course it’s racist AF towards Native Americans and Mexicans, but that basically goes without saying in westerns.
- Review Series: Top 100 (2009 List)
Is It Good?
Exceptionally Good (7/8)
Note: This capsule review was originally published elsewhere. If I watch this movie again, I might expand this to a full-length review.
Dan is the founder and head critic of The Goods. Follow Dan on Letterboxd. Join the Discord for updates and discussion.