Some gorgeous backdrops and amusing supporting performances can't hide the fact that this Western lacks chemistry between it stars, Shirley MacLaine and Glenn Ford. He's a sheep rancher dealing with all sorts of typical problems, and she's the romantic interest who seems to never get off her horse. Leslie Nielsen is the rival and Edgar Buchanan and the always endearing Jose Gonzalez Gonzalez provide comic relief. Gonzalez in particular stands out because his seemingly stereotypical character gets to show some unique dimensions that sidekicks like him are rarely given, showing great heart and loyalty and above all intelligence.
This is the type of film that appears to be better than it is because of its epic scope but fortunately it's not overly long and the comic moments help the film rise above the stale plot. It's still filled with that MGM gloss, obviously present in the late 50's. Ford is playing his character completely straight but MacLaine often seems to be screaming to the third balcony which obviously there wasn't one. She would have better luck with the other big MGM picture she made the same here that got her her first Oscar nomination. Fine for what it is, but not one that I can recommend as a must see.
This is the type of film that appears to be better than it is because of its epic scope but fortunately it's not overly long and the comic moments help the film rise above the stale plot. It's still filled with that MGM gloss, obviously present in the late 50's. Ford is playing his character completely straight but MacLaine often seems to be screaming to the third balcony which obviously there wasn't one. She would have better luck with the other big MGM picture she made the same here that got her her first Oscar nomination. Fine for what it is, but not one that I can recommend as a must see.