Rather Mythic than Mystic

Rating: 9/10 (8 January 2004)

Although there are strong and interesting women in this film, this is a truly male movie, full of rough buddies and small jokes, drinks and stories. Things that count are left unsaid - they are told by the (thoroughly great) actors and a close, intimate camera. Yes, this is a western, just as "Unforgiven" was. All the figures are bigger-than-life, telling the myth of strong winners and born losers, of cruelty and the way life ignores our sense of justice. Very moving. 9/10