![]() In the former, all veneer is shed as the males settle down to hand-to-hand combat, as primitive as the stone ages and as violent as are all survival battles between males. There are several fight sequences in the plot, both fistic and gunplay. This measured, deliberate handling in many of the sequences may seem too slow for the tastes of the more regular run of audiences, and does not account for the picture taking up nearly two hours of footage, but when the plot demands action he deals it out in such ragged doses that even the most avid fan of violence will be satisfied. What fancying up there is comes from the directorial touches supplied by Stevens, who never rushes the picture or a scene. In both, the impact comes mainly from the fact there was a story to be told and all concerned went about the business of telling it without unnecessary writing embroidery. Guthrie Jr.’s first, as is the novel from which it was adapted, the maiden effort of Jack Schaefer. Van Heflin, the other male star, commands attention with a sensitive performance, as real and earnest as the pioneer spirit he plays.Īn oddity of this screen venture, brought to life under Stevens’ supervision, is the fact that the screenplay is A.B. Under Stevens’ guidance, Ladd’s performance takes on dimensions not heretofore noticeable in his screen work, possibly because he has seldom had such an honest character to portray. This is particularly true of Alan Ladd in the title role. ![]() ![]() The casting is exceptionally good and the male stars have never been seen to better advantage. George Stevens handles the story and players in a manner that gives his production and direction a tremendous integrity.
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