Rating of
3.5/4
Best Western Since 1990
Alex - wrote on 02/23/11
The best western since Dances with Wolves (didn't care for Unforgiven). Virtually every detail in this movie is not missed. The pacing is good, the dialogue is witty, and acting is near perfection. The Coen Bros have done it again.
The story is kind of unique but definitely a western. When a 14 year old girl's father is murdered and she is the one to hire a gunslinging Marshall, you know that this could only happen in the old west. The choice to play the 14 year old girl was perfect. She is a good actress and may have a promising career ahead of her. The subtle twists and detailed cinematography keep you on your seat.
Acting by Bridges is great. This may be his best performance (ok, not better than The Big Lebowski). It is very funny at times, serious at times, real at times and gruesome at times. No complaints.
The score that is used makes it feel like one of those classic westerns, one of those feel good movies. Though it also felt like the recent Jesse James flick at times (though way better paced...and shot). The Coen's have been able to create the classic feel again.
So why not a 4 star movie? Not sure yet. Maybe on second viewing. I truly hoped for the Coen's to incorporate their style from "No Country" into this western. I was a bit disappointed. Maybe I was expecting too much. But for Western fans, this is a step back to the good 'ol days.
