3:10 to Yuma (2007)

I enjoyed this film but I forgot about it the day after watching it. Not sure exactly what that says about how I feel besides it was sufficient to keep my attention. It's probably because it feels a bit generic and predictable at every turn as well as Russel Crowes character getting on my nerves (even though I think he's a great actor). It was well made though.

A remake of the 1957 classic heist western with a modern visualisation that allows a new generation to enjoy the thrills. Y'all know westerns are one of my least favourite genres, and unfortunately this film includes typical traits that add to my dislike. An outlaw who goes by the name of Ben Wade is captured, to which the father of a ranch family bravely steps in to escort the prisoner to Contention (for some gold ofcourse) so that he can be brought to trial. Hot on their tail though is Wade's gang, who's loyalty result in them doing anything to get him back. As with most modern westerns (and classics for that matter) the production design is top notch. Small rural towns, desolate wastelands and ominous canyon passes. Everything looked great and director James Mangold ensured the natural environment took ownership. However, it's the screenplay that really stood out. The dialogue actually created the characters. Sure, both Christian Bale and Russell Crowe were electric, heck even Ben Foster's sinister antagonising characteristics were well portrayed. But the dialogue created them. The script allowed Ben Wade to be an ominous enigma. The script enabled Dan Evans to be a courageous veteran who would do anything for his family. The dialogue between these two lead characters manifested a rivalry that gradually transforms into mutual respect. In fact, it was the only critical element that the film had going for it during its first two acts. They. Were. So. Slow! Maybe the genre isn't for me, but I just can't get onboard with a glacial paced narrative. Fortunately it's third act was tight, the shootout was utterly gripping. The gritty tension that was built up just completely unleashed itself, and it was oh so satisfying. It saved the film for me, and it goes to show that the conclusion to a story is the most important factor. One of the better modern westerns I've seen, but that's not saying much from me.

Very nice movie to watch, very much enjoyed. Russel Crowe is great and acting is great.

I had high hope before watching this. It is a highly-rated movie with great casts. I had to say I was disappointed. The movie is very long. Unnecessary scenes and pointless dialogues were scattered all over the movie. I believe this movie can be cut short into 1.30 hours at most, instead of 2 full hours like this. I had no problem with all actors' performances but felt bored after 1 hour passed because the movie still didn't go anywhere, and I had not got any excited from the movie yet. I know this movie is a remake. I intentionally watched this one first, then plan to watch the original later. Unfortunately, this version already gave me bad impression. Now I don't know what to expect with the original. But I will watch it anyway.