Vol. 5 No. 2, February 2008
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DVD Review: 3:10 to Yuma
Russell Crowe, Christian Bale • Directed by James Mangold
This is a compelling remake of the 1957 film with Glenn Ford and Van Heflin. Reprising Ford’s role as the evil-but-charming outlaw is Russell Crowe, and taking on Heflin’s role as the good guy who brings him to justice is Christian Bale.
The story begins with the capture of notorious killer Ben Wade (Crowe), and the offer of $200 to anyone who will transport him on a several-days’ journey to the nearest railroad station. From there Wade and his keeper will board the next train to Yuma prison, where the killer faces certain hanging.
Bale’s character, a rancher and former Union Army sharpshooter named Dan Evans, is facing foreclosure on his property in post-Civil War Arizona. He must convince his wife that it’s the right thing to do to take Wade to justice and preserve his family’s future. Wade, meanwhile, has a ruthless gang that pursues the party throughout the film.
Like all good Westerns, 3:10 to Yuma is a study of the psychology of its characters. Crowe’s character is the obviously evil man who is nevertheless a smooth charmer, and tries unsuccessfully to hide the fact he retains a grain of good in his character. His temporary captor is a tragic figure, unable to gain the respect of his son or make a life for his family, driven to use his sharpshooting skills on a dangerous mission with an uncertain outcome.
The best part of this film, though, lies in the performances of the main characters. New Zealander Crowe nails the mystique of the American West and the ruthless-yet-gentle nature of his character. Bale, a Briton, is just as good in his role, and director Mangold does a fine job of building suspense to the climax of the film. It lives up to its billing as one of the best Westerns of the decade.
Granted, there aren’t enough Westerns around to substantiate that claim, but any fan of the genre will still like this one.
