Monte Walsh

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.

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.

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.

This is one of my favorite Westerns.

Yet, it cannot boast of a gunfight or excessive action that is a trademark of westerns.

There are several reasons why I love this film. It is a reflective sensitive film, with the main character trying to come to terms with change.

It deals with people and nature--fodder for good poetry. That gets a fillip when the director William Fraker, is an accomplished cinematographer.

Lee Marvin is great when he is brooding and therefore a superb choice. Jeanne Moreau is a delight to watch in any film but her performance in this film is one I will never forget. Yet when I asked Ms Moreau some 15 years after the film was made about this film, she didn't even appear to recall the name of William Fraker--but merely referred to him as another cinematographer-turned-director. I have always wondered at that reaction....Jack Palance is another wonderful actor who makes this movie great.. In retrospect the casting was superb.

A good western needs good music. This one has one of the finest songs I have heard "the good times are a'coming" by Mama Cass Elliot.

I recommend this film and "Will Penny" as great unusual westerns that touch you if you appreciate good filmmaking--and do not evaluate a western by the action sequences.

When "Monte Walsh" appeared in 1970, I avoided it like the plague. "Who wants to see a movie about the end of an era?" I asked myself, conveniently forgetting how much I loved "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance." So, nearly 30 years later, Turner Classic Movies gave me the opportunity to correct what might have been a mistake. Had I erred in 1970? Well, yes and no. Yes, because "Monte Walsh" now joins my list of one of the five best westerns ever made; and, no, because at the tender age of 21, I would not have appreciated this masterpiece; which, in these especially troubled times, seems more relevant than ever.

According to TCM host, Robert Osborne, William Fraker directed only 4 films during his distinguished career, preferring his role as director of photography. If "Monte Walsh" is any example, then director Fraker missed his calling; as, "Monte Walsh" boasts outstanding ensemble acting, unusual unless the director is especially gifted. Many in this cast give the best performances of his or her career, particularly Jim Davis and Mitchell Ryan. "Monte Walsh" should be the role for which Marvin is remembered, as "Chet" should be the role to remember Jack Palance. It's a joy and a privilege to watch Marvin and Palance interact, even more enjoyable than Marvin and John Wayne in their frequent pairings. The first two thirds of "Monte Walsh" is largely upbeat, even in the hard times portrayed, while the final third left me both numb and aching.

"I won't p**s on 30 years of my life," is one of the many profound quotations in "Monte Walsh." It defines Monte's code of honor; a decent, loving and honorable man unwilling to compromise who he is. I give "Monte Walsh" a "10".