My trip through the Wild West recently brought me to the dusty little town of Appaloosa. This 2008 film not only stars Ed Harris, but is also written and produced by him. Being a sucker for westerns, I actually saw this movie when it was released in theaters, but (and I say this at the risk of giving away my opinion of the movie) this movie is also one that has been added to my personal collection.
In many ways, this movie opposes The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly. It is a straightforward plot that leaves cliché and political commentary behind. Harris plays the cool-headed marshal whose major downfall is letting his love interest (Renée Zellweger) cloud his other wise spot-on judgment. But Vigo Mortensen, playing the part of Everett Hitch, steals the show and make my list of all-time best sidekicks. His loyalty to his partner is unusual in its degree as he carefully navigates Cole’s new relationship and the problems it brings for the lawmen-for-hire duo. One of the best quotes in the movie exemplifies the unbreakable bond between the two. Allie (Zellweger’s character) accuses Everett of coming on to her. Everett coolly replies “No, Virgil. I did not.” As Allie begins her protest, Virgil interrupts without hesitation and scolds her saying “No Allie. Everett didn’t do that”
Jeremy Irons gives a very good performance as the villain that goes from rancher outlaw to wealthy lobbyist (I sensed some commentary on current politics) And his looming showdown is a great piece of the falling action.
If you are wanting a shoot ‘em up cowboy flick, you won’t find it here. This film represents the West as it was; a non-glamorous world where justice had to be served.
4 out of 5 Stars
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-Nuss
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