Along the way, the two men match wits and philosophies while dodging bullets during a classic film that lasts just under two hours.
Since I grew up on a ranch, I was able to sympathize with Bale’s character and the predicament Dan finds himself in. Many of the plot points reminded me of long afternoons working with my father as he struggled to keep his business afloat while my mom kept things in order back at the house.
There have not been many good Westerns during the last few years, and some critics think the genre is dead, but “3:10 to Yuma” should raise this art form from the grave while hauling in serious bounty at the cash register.
The real hero in the film is the acting by the entire cast. Crowe’s twinkle in his eye meshes nicely with Bale’s extreme seriousness, and their many scenes together keep the story moving forward at a smooth, even pace.
On a side note, don’t expect to see Bale doing stand-up at open mic night any time soon. This guy is all business when it comes to acting.
Prolific screenwriters Derek Haas and Michael Brandt have written the perfect Western with sharp dialogue and character development. You could spend hours interpreting “3:10 to Yuma” once the final credits roll.
My friend Steven and I did just that while having dinner at Sharky’s in the Empire Center.
If you’re a fan of old Westerns from the 1940s and ’50s, this movie is required viewing. James Mangold’s direction is a throwback to the glory days of Hollywood, and in many ways James is tipping his hat to the filmmakers that rode before him.
Mangold even casts Peter Fonda in a sizable role, which adds to the nostalgic feel of the experience.
Many of you may ask, what about women? Unfortunately, there are only two female characters in the entire film, and they are only supporting roles. “3:10 to Yuma” is a man’s film for adults.
There is very little romance and, by today’s standards, not that much action.
This is a character-driven piece for intelligent moviegoers.
Children and those with attention-deficit issues should choose another movie or watch football.
Sheriff Bellner’s advice: Put on your boots and saddle up and make the “3:10 to Yuma.”
It could be awhile before a film this good makes a scheduled stop at a theater near you.
