The Man From Laramie

Starring: James Stewart, Arthur Kennedy, Donald Crisp, Cathy O'Donnell, Alex Nichol, Wallace Ford, Aline MacMahon
Directed by: Anthony Mann
Rating: Not Rated
Genre: Western
1955

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: A man (James Stewart) from Laramie searching for his brother's killer arrives in a small town and immediately makes enemies with the most powerful man (Donald Crisp) in town's son (Alex Nichol). His presence disrupts the fragile string holding the family together, and long dormant tension finally explodes.

Review:

Tim: This is one of Stewart's best Westerns. He and director Anthony Mann made one terrific team. This was the last film they made together and ended their collaboration very strongly.

Stewart gives a fine performance. He makes such a great Western hero, and this is a somewhat different variation on his typical role.

The story is told beautifully throughout the film. The movie's real dynamics come from the supporting cast. The drama between a father (Donald Crisp), his son (Alex Nichol), and their family friend (Arthur Kennedy) draws us in as every twist and turn only increases our interest in the story. We are caught up in the family feud as much as Stewart.

Two of the best scenes are when Stewart is dragged by a horse through a fire, and when he is shot in the hand at point-blank range. These are painful and a good example of the violence prevalent throughout Mann's film.

Mann directs an incredible movie to watch. The scenes are wide and the colors stark. Everything has an epic feel to it. Stewart has never looked better in any Western.

The Man From Laramie has all the great Western qualities- a mysterious hero bent on vengeance, greedy ranchers, malicious Indians, and even a semi-platonic love interest. This is a great film that is lifted by two classic figures- Stewart and Mann. Add this to your "must-see" list.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating- 7.5



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