The Mustanger and the Lady

This film is pure art. From the score, to many of the actors, a hidden gem. Out of the straight to video pile come some of my favourite westerns and Painted Woman is now on that list. Do not come looking for action however. Though there may be a few violent scenes, this is a steady, and even somewhat slow paced tale of hardship, perseverance and love in the old west. Kiowa Gordon (Chato), Stef Dawson (Julie Richards), Matt Dallas (Frank Dean) and David Jenkins (Vince Wagner), are some of my highlights. Of special note, however, is Laurel Harris (Ellie Anderson). From her first scene, it is obvious that this actress is not just performing but also putting her spirit into the film. She captured me in her mannerisms and speech. She radiated heart, a compassion that not only her character possessed, but no doubt, Ms. Harris herself. Amazing. Amazing. Quick kudo to David Bruster's rendition of "Pig in a Pen". Why is that song not on the soundtrack?

The movie had great character development and theme! Though portrayed as a Western, the message is universal. I loved how the entire tone of the movie develops and changes as the main character begins to discover the strength within herself. This movie has a little bit of everything, drama, suspense, comedy, and action. My favorite part was how she sought revenge on her oppressor!

... by far the best part of this production was the last few minutes of the ending... otherwise it was stereotypical down to the bad guys and sidekicks... it would have made a very good first couple episodes of a four-part-mini-series.

Whoever wrote the screen play decided that limited character development and non-existent dialogue was the way to go. It was predictable and simplistic. Not a great movie

I loved this movie. The setting felt very real. The characters were fully developed and the theme of a western told from the point of view of a woman that is the mercy of a male-dominated society is not a voice that is heard often, but here, told remarkably well. I have seen this movie twice and enjoyed it even more upon the second viewing.