Complete credited cast: | |||
James Stewart | ... | ||
Arthur Kennedy | ... |
Vic Hansbro
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Donald Crisp | ... |
Alec Waggoman
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Cathy O'Donnell | ... |
Barbara Waggoman
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Alex Nicol | ... |
Dave Waggoman
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Aline MacMahon | ... |
Kate Canaday
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Wallace Ford | ... |
Charley O'Leary
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Jack Elam | ... |
Chris Boldt
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John War Eagle | ... |
Frank Darrah
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James Millican | ... |
Tom Quigby
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Gregg Barton | ... |
Fritz
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Boyd Stockman | ... |
Spud Oxton
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Frank DeKova | ... |
Padre
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Mysterious Will Lockhart delivers supplies to storekeeper Barbara Waggoman at Coronado, an isolated town in Apache country. Before long, he's tangled with Dave Waggoman, vicious son of autocratic rancher Alec and cousin of sweet Barbara. But he sticks around town, his presence a catalyst for changes in people's lives, searching for someone he doesn't know...who's been selling rifles to the Apaches. Written by Rod Crawford <puffinus@u.washington.edu>
This has got to be one of the best western plots ever filmed. Unlike so many others in the genre, "The Man From Laramie" has a complex and interesting conflict as its center. Many have compared it to "King Lear" and the main story line does resemble the subplot of Gloucester and his two sons. Whether the Shakespeare connection is intentional or not, it works extremely well.
Partly responsible for the film´s success are its stars: James Stewart is good as usual, while Arthur Kennedy, Donald Crisp and Aline McMahon really stand out in their characterizations. Anthony Mann´s directing is tight and uncompromising. The picture never lags once and there are many strongly dramatic moments, some even a bit shocking for 1955.
The film was photographed with artistry, and the DVD issue does it justice. Several scenes are beautifully balanced and dramatically expressive. There is a wonderful wide-screen, panoramic look that comes across quite well. The real surprise is the audio. This 1955 movie has a full-bodied stereo soundtrack! The musical score may not be one the all-time greats, but it is often very effective, and on this disc it fills the viewing space with excitement. Highly recommended, even to Western non-fans.