Film Reviews by MW

Having seen reviews suggesting this was one of the great westerns, I was very disappointed on viewing it for the first time.

Although, visually, it is stunning and Leone's well-known cinematic techniques are in evidence, compared to productions on similar subjects over the last fifty years, this appears trite, predictable and of another less-sophisticated era. As with his earlier films, the plot lines are frequently muddled and fail to conclude. However, the acting performances from the established stars are good, but many of the minor performers are laughable. The intended humour is well conceived and well executed, but the visual impact does not compensate for its other shortcomings.

In conclusion, I could not recommend the film. Instead, I suggest looking at the works of John Ford, Anthony Mann, John Sturgess and Sam Peckinpah, amongst others.

Appalling film ... from the 20 mins I could bear to watch.

How could such a fine group of actors get involved in this? These are characters for whom it is impossible to have any empathy. It's difficult to believe any film-maker could be drawn to such dross and I can only hope the cast were very well paid, as it could only have harmed their careers. Not deserving of one star.