About Gunman's Walk

Post 1927:

They used to make a lot of westerns. I guess they still do, but back in the day Hollywood would pump those things out. I consider myself something of an expert on westerns. First, I’m from Texas. Second, I’ve written a western novel that’s probably pretty good if you ask one of the few people that read it. Third, I’ve seen every good western.

Or so I thought. I came across Gunman’s Walk recently and was stunned. It’s a stripped down story about family and legacy that is dark and deep and hopeful and, most of all, relatable. This story holds up.

I won’t spoil it except to say that it’s a character drama about a successful dad and his two sons. They’re very different guys and have unique relationships with their father. He’s a rancher that “tamed” the west and the days of cowboys and the open range are coming to a close.

For a story with very few characters, you get a lot of drama. This is down to a very concise and subtle script. Everyone has a clear and distinct point of view, and they all have their reasons. It’s all very Shakespearean for a western, and I love it.

There are no giant stars like John Wayne in it, besides Van Heflin. He was a great actor back in the day and he kills it as the dad that never wanted to grow up, pretty much winging the raising of his boys without the guiding influence of a woman in his life.

Boys need their moms. Watch this movie and you’ll have no doubts. A little civilizing goes a long way, Without a mom, you end up a character in movies with names like Gunman’s Walk. I rest my case.