Monte Walsh

The death of the Wild West has been a recurring theme in many films. From Sam Peckinpah's 'The Ballad of Cable Hogue' to Don Siegel's 'The Shootist,' numerous movies have depicted the arrival of modernity and the end of days for cowboys and gunslingers. This transition period, often marked by the emergence of railroads, motorcars and industrialization, symbolizes a profound shift in American identity and values.

These films not only chronicle the physical changes in the landscape but also delve into the emotional and psychological impacts on those who lived through this era. The rugged individualism and frontier spirit that defined the cowboy way of life are juxtaposed against the inevitability of progress and the loss of a simpler, albeit harsher, way of life.

William A. Fraker's directorial debut, 'Monte Walsh' is a moving, powerful exploration of these themes. Set against the backdrop of a vanishing frontier, the film follows the titular character as he grapples with the inexorable march of progress. Monte, along with his friend Chet Rollins, embodies the frontier spirit that is slowly being rendered obsolete. The film poignantly captures their struggle to find purpose and identity in a world that no longer values their skills, not only telling the story of one man's journey but also serving as a broader commentary on the end of an era.

Furthermore, Monte's relationship with Martine Bernard, a prostitute, adds a deeply personal dimension to the narrative. She is more than just a love interest; she represents the human cost of the changing times. Their relationship is tender and genuine, marked by mutual respect and affection. Despite the societal stigma attached to her profession, Martine is depicted with dignity and depth.

Monte's interactions with Martine highlight his vulnerability and longing for stability in a world that is slipping away. Their moments together are the film's most poignant, and would move even the coldest of people. Their relationship serves as a microcosm of the broader changes happening in the West, illustrating how personal lives are intertwined within the larger historical shifts.

Fraker's direction brings a sense of authenticity to the film, with sweeping shots of the Western landscape emphasising the vastness and isolation of the frontier. Lukas Heller and David Zelag Goodman's screenplay brims with nuance and dramatic depth, though is also very funny in places, with sharp dialogue. In addition, David M. Walsh's cinematography contrasts the open, untamed land with the encroaching signs of civilization, complementing the narrative and enriching its themes.

The film is not just a story about the end of the cowboy era; it's a meditation on change, loss and the search for meaning in a world that is moving on. It's poignant exploration of these themes makes it a standout in the Western genre, offering a reflective, emotionally resonant experience. Moreover, John Barry's elegiac score adds a hauntingly beautiful layer, enhancing its depth. The music underscores the melancholy and nostalgia permeating the story, heightening the film's impact considerably.

Further, the film stands out not only for its thematic richness but also for its ability to evoke a deep sense of time and place. The minute attention to detail- from Albert Brenner's authentic production and costume design, to Phil Abramson's set decoration- immerses one fully in the waning days of the Wild West. It is also well-edited, with a good pace from start to finish- a testament to Fraker and the four credited editors' skills in the cutting room.

Lee Marvin stars as the titular character, delivering a nuanced, subtle performance that ranks alongside his very best. Marvin underplays the part of Monte beautifully, capturing the quiet dignity and inner turmoil of a man facing the end of his way of life. His performance is marked by a restrained intensity, allowing the character's emotions to simmer just beneath the surface. This approach not only makes Monte a deeply sympathetic figure but also adds a layer of realism to the film.

Often remembered as a heavy or a tough guy, Marvin here proves once again what a talented, intelligent actor he was; as Monte, he is unforgettable. Opposite him, Jack Palance delivers an equally compelling performance as Chet, bringing an affecting warmth and humanity to the role. He and Marvin- with whom he appeared on screen numerous times- work wonderfully together.

Additionally, Jeanne Moreau makes Martine dignified and tender, providing a strong emotional anchor for Monte. Moreau shares a believable chemistry with Marvin, her performance highlighting the personal sacrifices and emotional toll of the changing times. Mitchell Ryan also does strong work as Shorty Austin, one of Monte's fellow cowpokes, while the likes of Jim Davis, Matt Clark and G. D. Spradlin are equally commendable.

In conclusion, 'Monte Walsh' is a poignant film capturing the essence of a dying era. Through its rich characters and emotional depth, it offers a heartfelt farewell to the Wild West and the rugged individualism it represented. Quiet and compassionate, it's evocative visuals and score heightens the depth of its engaging narrative, while all in the cast perform masterfully- especially star Lee Marvin. A must-watch for Western fans, or fans of cinema in general, 'Monte Walsh' rides high in the saddle into the sunset, lingering in the mind long after the credits have rolled.

I heartily agree with the other enthusiastic reviews of this movie, so instead of repeating their comments I'll just add a couple of notes which I didn't see in anyone else's remarks.

One thing that really drew me into this movie was how, over and over, I would be watching a scene play out and there would be a _very_ few words exchanged, with minimal "dramatizing music" or other "play-ups" adding dramatic weight, and I'd just ache for more words to be said. So much was happening _to_ the characters (mostly internal, as the film focuses more on people than events) and they went through it with such a minimum of dialogue. That made a strong impression on me as it left me wanting more; wishing somehow they could make it alright by just saying more of what was obviously on their hearts.

Another thing I loved about this movie was the distinctiveness of the characters. One had false teeth; one rarely (if ever) bathed; one was called "Shorty"; and, of course, the unforgettable mugs of Palance and Marvin -- and the distinctiveness of these wasn't all simply in their appearances. Before long they started to feel like my own friends. My heart broke watching their whole world pass them by.

Sensitive Western with satisfying and impressive directorial by William A Fraker , in his film debut for this award-winning cinematographer , being based on Jack Schaefer's novel , author of ¨Shane¨ . The film starts at the ending XIX century when appears railway , big companies buy ranches and new technologies put difficult things for traditional cowboys who lost their jobs . Monty Walsh (Lee Marvin) a veteran cowboy sees declining the ending days of Wild West era and the transition to a new century where horses are left . As railway and barbed wire hardly eliminate the need for the cowboys who are yearning the freedom of the open prairie . The aging cowboy realizes that the West he knew and loved will soon be no more and that there will be no room for him, either . In spite of penury , shortage and obstacles he faithfully carry out his thoughts and wishes and he goes on being a good cowboy . Monty along with his best friend (Jack Palance , this is one of only a few occasions where Jack is not cast as a villain and giving a touching acting) transport a herd of horses across the countries . Their lives are divided between months on the range and the occasional trip into town . They find themselves like dinosaurs in an old West that's dying out . Monty has a long-term relationship with a prostitute named Martine Bernard , while Chet has fallen under the spell of the widow who owns the hardware store. Monte Walsh and his partners are left with few options for survive , tough new jobs opportunities are available. Round-up , go riding and relationship with the other cowboys fill their days, until one of the hands , Shorty Austin (Mitch Ryan) , loses his job and gets involved in rustling and killing . Aging cowboy Monty is a good and professional man and embarks on mission to avenge his colleague .

Moving and sensitive Western where the cowboys must say goodbye to the lives they know and some of them attempt to make a new upright start and others way to crime . This melancholic picture is acclaimed like one of the best twilight Western and has a nice nostalgic feeling . It's an excellent Western with thrills , emotion , a love story , shootouts , breathtaking scenarios ; but also melancholy , competition , unlovable camaraderie and emotionalism . Moving Western , elegiac , subdued and worthwhile for genre lovers , including great Lee Marvin and Jack Palance in an unusual good guy character . However, the narration is too slow-moving to keep a fine grip on the interest . The movie was shot on location , including marvelous outdoors in Mescal, Arizona, Old Tucson, Arizona , being splendidly photographed by David M Walsh . Sensitive and stirring Western where cowboys must say goodbye to the lives they know and undergo an extraordinary and dangerous travel . Great acting for all casting with magnificent main roles from Marvin as Monty who only lives his work and is enamored for a prostitute named Countess Martine and Jack Palance as his loyal friend . Ample support cast with several familiar faces such as Mitch Ryan , Matt Clak , G.D. Spradlin , Bo Hopkins , Jim Davis , film debut of Eric Christmas and final film of veteran villain Roy Barcroft, who died before its release. Special mention to Jeanne Moreau as an aging whore who falls in love . Gorgeous landscapes , reflecting wonderfully the wide open spaces, they are splendidly photographed . Gorgeous outdoors are well photographed by cameraman David Walsh. Emotive as well evocative musical score by the great John Barry in his ordinary and brilliant style , including some wonderful songs . Sensational directorial by notorious cameraman William A Fraker . Usual and top-notch cameraman William A Fraker proves himself a proficient filmmaker in this , his first venture , though he subsequently directed another Western , a failure ¨Lone Ranger¨ . It's followed by a remake starred by Tom Selleck titled ¨Monte Walsh¨ TV (2003) by Simon Wincer with Isabella Rossellini, in Jeanne Moreau's role , Keith Carradine in Jack Palance role , George Eads, William Sanderson, Rex Linn and William Devane, role of Jim Davis . Rating : Better than average for the proficient film-making . It's a magnificent movie , and an unforgettable , unchallenged classic western.

Here's a case of Palance putting in a great supporting role like he has done so often, a truly selfless actor with a great humility.

Seldom does an actor allow himself to look as pathetic as Palance does in his performances. This is a great film, primarily due to the metaphor near the end where Marvin tries to tame a horse, frustratingly attempting to control the nature of all things around him. The austere writing and stilted acting lend to the overall tone, creating an elegiac western greatly under-appreciated in its time. One of those small, offbeat movies awash in a decade of so many sparkling little films, each challenging the strictures of Hollywood. I loved it.

Monte Walsh is the debut feature of cameraman-turned-director William A.Fraker. It stars Lee Marvin (Monte Walsh) & Jack Palance (Chet Rollins) as two ageing cowboys who find that the era of the cowpoke is coming to an end; and that work for them is now very hard to come by. Adapted by David Zelag Goodman & Lukas Heller from Jack Schaefer's novel, Monte Walsh is a gentle but astute telling of men who have outlived their time (think Will Penny/Ride The High Country). Though very sedate in pacing, and almost elegiac in tone, the film constantly remains interesting because the characters are so well written. That they are given quality portrayals by Marvin & Palance, the latter of which is nicely cast against type, is possibly of no surprise to most genre fans. But both actors push themselves to really make the film work, even exuding believability in the process. Thus when the story takes its potent laced turns we are with them all the way, for better or worse.

John Barry provides the music and the film opens with a delightful and ironic tune called "The Good Times Are Comin" sung by Mama Cass. The cinematography is by David M. Walsh, where he nicely manages to make the Tuscon part of the shoot blend with the emotional state of our protagonists. And decent support comes from Mitch Ryan too. There's also much humour in the piece, such as a cooks revenge that is laugh out loud funny. While there's action moments like a taming a bronco sequence to ensure the story is not solely interested in playing out as a sad atmospheric tale. But it's really all about Marvin and the character he plays, with Fraker guiding him to emotional depth, Marvin makes Monte Walsh an essential viewing for fans and interested newcomers alike. 7/10