Entertaining from start to finish

Rating: 9/10 (26 June 2008)

I actually liked the trailer for this movie when it first came out, but for one reason or another didn't go see it at the theaters. I'm sorry I didn't, as westerns are so rare these days and one on the big screen is even more of a rarity. I watched this first on InDemandPPV, and was wrapped up in the action from moment one. I don't see how anyone could say this film is "slow". For me, it was non stop entertainment. Even during the parts where there was no gunfighting or battling of any kind, the relationships between the characters kept me riveted to the screen. It really is all about standing up for what is right, having principles, and doing what you have to do even when the odds are stacked against you. It's about finding redemption and understanding in the least likely people and circumstances. Christian Bale and Russell Crowe simply are on fire together. I loved every moment of their interactions, and I would love to see them re-team in something on down the line. They, and their respective characters of Dan Evans and Ben Wade, made the movie for me. It was also nice to see Peter Fonda, and Logan Lerman as Dan's son William was also impressive. The cast overall was a stand-out (they weren't nominated for a SAG award for most outstanding cast for nothing.) All in all, I'd say, a great movie. Not perfect, but if you go in focusing on what you think might never logically happen, you'll miss the magic and beauty of it all. Worth a watch, or even owning a copy. You might need a tissue handy for some of the later scenes. I know I did. Two thumbs up, I loved it !