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film: 3:10 to Yuma
director: James Mangold
cast: Russell Crowe, Christian Bale
Lionsgate / 2007
score: 85
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by Kaare Kvenild
Right now, "3:10 to Yuma" is a contender to be my
favorite movie of the year. I love Westerns, and this
is a fantastic Western. I love Westerns because I
think they are usually some of the most beautifully
shot films, and this is no exception. The
cinematography in "3:10" is breathtaking. Director
James Mangold takes full advantage of the environment
for his film.
The film is based on a short story by Elmore Leonard
and it follows two men. The first is Ben Wade (Russell Crowe),
a violent criminal who has finally been caught by
authorities after numerous robberies and murders. The
second is Dan Evans (Christian Bale), a Civil War Veteran and a
down-on-his-luck farmer who offers to escort Wade to
the 3:10pm train to Yuma for $200. In Yuma, Wade
will be tried for his crimes. But the road to Yuma is
a dangerous one because Wade's gang is following Evans
and his crew in hopes of freeing Wade.
All actors involved give solid performances. It is
especially cool watching Crowe and Bale square off
because they are both amazing. Many times they are
the only two actors in scenes; it is just amazing to
watch two brilliant actors match wits. Also giving an
exceptionally great performance is Ben Foster as
Ben Wade's right-hand man. Foster is terrifying in the
role and really comes into his own in "3:10." This is
without a doubt the best western to come out since
"Unforgiven," and that is a high compliment.
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