An odd, quirky western that treads an extremely narrow path, but does it not only rather well, but with all flags flying. You really need to see the movie twice to gain an understanding of all the subtle turns in the plot and get a really firm picture of who is who. In my opinion, the picture is stolen by the interaction of Slim Pickens and Clifton James, although I can readily understand that some viewers will side with the characters played by Jeff Bridges and Sam Waterston. However, I cannot bring myself to admire a couple who make their living by shooting and decapitating cattle. As in most westerns, the ladies play minor roles but they do have something to say for themselves here, even if they all do knuckle under to the demands of the men. In my view, the movie is far too violent to class as a comedy, but who am I to argue with the movie-makers and most of the press?
Review of Rancho Deluxe
Rancho Deluxe
(1975)
The Comedy You Have When You're Not Expecting a Comedy
16 August 2016
Warning: Spoilers