not just fiddlin' around

Rating: 7/10 (16 April 2004)

Greetings again from the darkness. Having grown up in San Antonio and lived in Texas most of my life, I was quite anxious and apprehensive about this movie. When news first broke a few years ago regarding this project, Ron Howard was listed as the director and I could not have been more relieved. His treatment of "Apollo 13" was nothing short of outstanding. A few months ago, when the delay in release was announced, I found out Howard was no longer directing and the reins had been turned over to Hancock. It was then I began to worry. Sure enough, the obvious weakness in this film is the inconsistent direction and chopiness of the story. On the other hand, the lead actors are all fantastic! Patrick Wilson as Travis is just how the stories were told. Jason Patric brings Jim Bowie (and is extremely impressive knife) to life. Dennis Quaid does an OK job as Sam Houston, although maybe a bit heavy handed in his approach. No question, though, that the movie and story belong to Billy Bob Thornton as Davy (he prefers David) Crockett and Emilio Echevarria as Santa Ana. The arrogance of Santa Ana is chillingly portrayed and Billy Bob continues to prove that he is one of the best actors in the world. He becomes his characters. The crucial battle scene (portrayed accurately as being in the dark) is done fairly well, but the bravery and destiny of those involved is heart-breaking. I would have loved to have seen Ron Howard's version, but am impressed with the accuracy of the storyline of Hancock's film.