Subtle and courageous

Rating: 9/10 (15 January 2008)

The acting from the two leading roles are absolutely brilliant. Christian Bale's performance is captivating as the one-legged rancher fighting for his family. In fact, he takes over much of the attention at should be given to Russell Crowe as well. Crowe is given a hard and complicated role, yet he did brilliantly. In my opinion, Crowe's character, the outlaw Ben Wade is the more interesting. It is like the film is just a glimpse of Wade's life where there is so much more going on. Many people will be confused at the end by Wade's choices. But if we watch Crowe more carefully, there are many subtle hints through out the movie that will explain a lot about this special character, that in the end, you won't be able to characterize him as good or bad. The film is beautifully directed, very well paced. The music and cinematography are powerfully done. The only weak point of this movie is the acting of Logan Lerman who plays William. But it is a hard role for a young actor so it's understandable. This is one of those movie that will grow on you as you watch it over and over. I rate it 9/10.