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The realism here is not just in the historical notes of the passing of one "Old West" in exchange for a new one inhabited by Stanley Steamers and all sorts of new-fangled 'gadgets,' but in the feel of life on the edge. Peckinpah has a way of making me want to go shower after viewing "Cable Hogue" because I know I must have a pound of sand and dirt down the back of my shirt and in my shoes! It's that sweaty, never-being-able-to-stay-clean feeling the settlers of the American West knew all too well. Robards IS Cable Hogue! Stella Stevens capably plays the best role given to her. David Warner as Joshua really makes one try and look beyond the soiled preacher's collar for some sign of decency. Adding Strother Martin and Slim Pickins to any movie is simply gravy. Humor, discomfort, betrayal, love and coping with everyday life in a harsh environment. Oh yeah, don't forget the rattlesnakes!

My favorite "modern" western with a great cast, solid story line and plenty of laughs. Music in the background by Jimmy Buffet is a delight. Not a serious, complicated story but one that is interesting enough to make you stick around and enjoy the performances of Bridges, Waterston, Ashley, Dallas and Pickins. Slim's line after he cuts out the slug that downed a steer out on the cold Montana range, (he identifies the bullet as coming from a 50 caliber Sharps rifle) "This is startin' to git downright romantic!" is a hoot. Sexy Charlene Dallas playing her role as the innocent niece made me want to see more of her. To top it all are the great wide open spaces of Montana as backdrop to the film. The ideal movie to view on a weekend afternoon with lots of popcorn and a cold glass, or hot cup of your favorite beverage.