3:10 to Yuma (2007)

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  TheMovieDiorama

  7 / 10

  3:10 To Yuma succumbs to the slow pace of classic westerns but its conclusion is satisfyingly gripping. A remake of the 1957 classic heist western with a modern visualisation that allows a new generation to enjoy the thrills. Y'all know westerns are one of my least favourite genres, and unfortunately this film includes typical traits that add to my dislike. An outlaw who goes by the name of Ben Wade is captured, to which the father of a ranch family bravely steps in to escort the prisoner to Contention (for some gold ofcourse) so that he can be brought to trial. Hot on their tail though is Wade's gang, who's loyalty result in them doing anything to get him back. As with most modern westerns (and classics for that matter) the production design is top notch. Small rural towns, desolate wastelands and ominous canyon passes. Everything looked great and director James Mangold ensured the natural environment took ownership. However, it's the screenplay that really stood out. The dialogue actually created the characters. Sure, both Christian Bale and Russell Crowe were electric, heck even Ben Foster's sinister antagonising characteristics were well portrayed. But the dialogue created them. The script allowed Ben Wade to be an ominous enigma. The script enabled Dan Evans to be a courageous veteran who would do anything for his family. The dialogue between these two lead characters manifested a rivalry that gradually transforms into mutual respect. In fact, it was the only critical element that the film had going for it during its first two acts. They. Were. So. Slow! Maybe the genre isn't for me, but I just can't get onboard with a glacial paced narrative. Fortunately it's third act was tight, the shootout was utterly gripping. The gritty tension that was built up just completely unleashed itself, and it was oh so satisfying. It saved the film for me, and it goes to show that the conclusion to a story is the most important factor. One of the better modern westerns I've seen, but that's not saying much from me.

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