A Thriller of a Western

Rating: 7/10 (17 January 2008)

In a genre that has long been dormant comes this film: a passionate, fast-paced, and thrilling adventure. 3:10 to Yuma is a Western with all the classic moments you hope for, and yet enough twists and intelligence to be original.
Dan Evans is a rancher at the end of his rope and in need of cash to pay off debts. By chance, he agrees to escort a captured outlaw, Ben Wade, to the 3:10 to Yuma; the train that will take him to court and hanging. Wade's gang is close behind and being led by a murderous sidekick. And there's more to both men than what meets the eye...
The character of Ben Wade is played brilliantly by Russell Crowe. Wade seems like a true gentlemen when you talk to him- but then without warning, his violent and deadly outlaw self can come out. And when it does, he becomes truly a thing of terror. Though not quite as terrifying as his sidekick, Charlie Prince, played eerily by Ben Foster in one of the best performances of the year. Christian Bale plays Dan, a rancher who is desperately seeking something to save both himself and his family.
With a pulsing bass-driven score and action sequences you won't soon forget, 3:10 to Yuma is well-worth a watch. While staying true to the beloved Western genre it also brought new energy and life into it, creating a film that is not only exciting, but also thought-provoking. That is a great achievement. 7/10 stars!
Jay Addison