Films/DVD Asylum

Posted by Harmonia (A) on September 07, 2008 at 16:18:06

In Reply to: RE: McCabe and Mrs Miller? Rio Bravo isn't as good as El Dorado... posted by Dr Phibes on September 07, 2008 at 05:20:13

The Claim, written by Frank Cottrell Boyce and directed by frequent collaborator Michael Winterbottom, has a similar setting and tone as Altman's film (although stylistically they are not close). The plot is a reworking of The Mayor Of Casterbridge - and please don't let that deter you, even if you are allergic to Thomas Hardy. The cinematography is stunning and the performances are all first rate. It's one of my favorite modern westerns.

Boyce and Winterbottom are the team who brought us Welcome to Sarajevo, 24 Hour Party People, Code 46 and Tristram Shandy - A Cock and Bull Story. Winterbottom is one of the most interesting British directors now working IMO.

I waffle on whether I prefer El Dorado or Rio Bravo. I tend to prefer the former, since I think it's a better movie over-all. But RB is always watchable and entertaining.

I love The Big Country, especially the score with its wonderful theme by Jerome Moross (sp?).