Movies You May Have Missed- 3:10 to Yuma (2007)

3:10 to Yuma is one of those movies that gets better and better each time you see it. Sure there are certain shocking moments that are not as surprising the second time around, but anticipating your favorite scenes can be just as satisfying. This was my third time viewing the film and because I already knew the plot I was able to focus on its more nuanced aspects.  The film looks beautiful, but still manages to keep its authentic western feel. One of the striking things about this film is that all its aspects need not be laid out for us. Instead small clues enable the viewer to understand how and what the characters were feeling.  

Let me set the stage. The movie is about a poor rancher, Dan Evans, played by Christian Bale, who desperately needs money to prevent the railroad company from repossessing his house. Lucky for him Ben Wade, a murdering criminal played by Russell Crowe, needs to be put on the 3:10 to Yuma where he will be tried in court for his actions. Evans agrees to help take him there for 200 dollars. The story is a simple.  However, the film fills up 2 hours without a dragging moment. 

The film was directed by James Mangold, who two years before this film directed Walk the Line, another great movie.  His direction in this is fantastic and makes the film absorbing. This is a remake (the original was made in 1957) and many critics say it is better than the original.

What really stands out more than anything in this movie are Christian Bale’s and Russell Crowe’s performances.  The academy really snubbed them both, as each of their performances were easily Oscar worthy.  Bale manages to have some extremely powerful lines without overacting.  He truly embodies his character. Crowe’s character is a terrific villain; a real killer who at the same time has a strong moral compass.  The interactions between the two characters create the most captivating aspects of the entire film.

In a peaNut Shell:  This is a western and may possibly be a better one than True Grit, which I loved.  It’s hard to compare the two.  For those who don’t much care for westerns give this one a chance, it may surprise you.