9/10
Not so much a western as a family drama set in the west. An overlooked gem from director Anthony Mann, better known for his collaborations with James Stewart. This one is absolutely scintillating, a real example of the right way to adapt a novel. The dialogue is razorsharp and cleverly self-referential (a little too much at times), and is really the driving force of the movie. That and the acting. Barbara Stanwyck is great in one of the strongest female roles ever to grace a 50's western and Walter Huston is excellent in the last role before his death. The cinematography (Oscar winning or nominated) and direction is gorgeous, one of the most evocative black and white westerns I've ever seen. Just a really great movie all around.
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