Western with Wit

Rating: Null/10 (8 February 2002)

Although the score makes me want to stab a sharp #2 pencil deep into my ear, the film ultimately justifies its classic status with enthralling photography, endearing characters, fairly good pacing, and - above all - a good-natured sense of humor.
The opening scene, in all its sepia-toned glory, presents an inspired introduction to the two lead characters. Butch Cassidy, wry and easy-going, tries to end a dispute between Sundance, the stoic, and an unseen antagonist. After that, the film takes a dubious turn with the introduction of the love interest, played by Katharine Ross in an exceedingly bland performance. In fact, I would have gladly forsaken historical accuracy in favor of eliminating her character entirely.
The thrill of the hunt (or rather, the hunted) drives the first half of the film. Seen only from afar, the "Superposse" gives off an aura of mythical strength, disciplined perseverance, and unparalleled skill. This epic chase escalates to the brink of fever pitch when Butch and Sundance abruptly flee to South America (again, realism is a curse).
The pacing of the film stalls a bit at this point due to a tedious, unnecessary montage sequence. The story regains its former humorous and thrilling style thereafter, except for an inane robbery/self-congratulatory dinner progression complete with cheesy late 60's bubble-gum vocal jazz (stab stab stab). The final scene is very well executed even though the Bolivian army is not nearly as interesting or as diabolical as the "Superposse."
The secondary and peripheral characters amuse and entertain throughout (Woodcock, Logan, The Bicycle Salesman, Percy Garris, et al). I particularly enjoyed Sheriff Bledsoe's frantic and impulsive rambling ("You're gonna die bloody, and all you can do is choose where").
Definitely catch this one if you have the chance.