Tom Horn (1980, William Wiard)

In the very last stretch of his film career, Steve McQueen ended up portraying somewhat serendipitously, two characters that shared more than a few similarities with his public persona. The first character was uncompromising bounty hunter Ralph “Papa” Thorson in Paramount’s The Hunter. The second role was the title character in the western Tom Horn, which tells the true-life story of a man who became a famous hunter of rustlers when he was hired by ranchers to protect their cattle. The latter being better than the former for a variety of reasons.

Tom Horn covers familiar ground. In fact, one could say that the movie steals a few ideas from other, more famous westerns. It is a credit to all the talent involved in the making of the film that the production transcends the common aspects of the material. The film deals with the last days of the old west and ostracization of the frontier man, who ironically laid the foundation for the new civilized world. I liked how the film deconstructs western myths without resorting to the predictable use of realism. The episodic structure of the narrative allows the viewer not only to connect with the main character but also to understand the character’s main moral dilemma. Subsequently, the last vignettes carry plenty of emotional weight.

I did feel the script could have spent more time fleshing out McQueen’s role. Maybe some of the material was left on the cutting room floor. Who knows? However, I think the movie is a fitting farewell to an actor known for his unconventional approach to life. McQueen is excellent. In his very own, understated way, he creates a vivid characterization of a man who has outlived his usefulness. Richard Farnsworth and Linda Evans appear in supporting roles. The lovely cinematography is by John Alonzo. The pulsating music score was written by Ernest Gold. Ignored when it was first released, Tom Horn is an unappreciated production that deserves another look. It’s no masterwork. But like its star, this western has substance and inconspicuous beauty.

~ by gelpi2008 on Tuesday, November 3, 2009.