Decision at Sundown (1957, dir. Budd Boetticher) [Out of Print]

Decision at Sundown (1957, dir. Budd Boetticher)

What About It?: Yet another unavailable-in-any-rentable-form Budd Boetticher/Ranown Western that is happily available via ON DEMAND.

What About It?: The smallest of the previously mentioned Ranown-cycle films -- this one plays almost like a chamber piece -- this is another psychological meditation on the motivations of revenge by Boetticher. And it's another winner. Randolph Scott plays against type as someone blinded by his own rage and hatred, wanting payback from a lothario who -- Scott feels -- caused the suicide of his wife. Scott makes plenty of mistakes, learns from none of them, but his single-minded will inspires a town to rid itself of a malignant growth of a man (Tate Kimbrough). While playing, the movie can feel somewhat slight, but it sticks with the viewer as Scott's performance resonates past the lean 77 minute running time.

Why Should I See It?: A great puzzle of a character study flick with fine work by Scott and John Carroll, as Tate Kimbrough, there is more than enough here for any classic movie lover and a must-see for anyone who fancies a good Western of any kind.

What Else Is It Like?: The Gunfighter, The Man From Laramie, The Outrage.

When Is It Showing Until ON DEMAND?: 11/30/06

Watch It ON DEMAND on Comcast Cable.

-- ddt/pdx

Added Note: The Lost Classic just watched The Tall T again last night and we just have to say that you need to watch these movies. Seriously.