Review of Appaloosa (2008) by Adam K — 24 Aug 2009

A rather dull, predictable, and unengaging Western. The slow pacing was fine, but the story line lacked sufficient conflict; one thing happens then another then another, without building any investment in the outcome.

It has a "paint-by-numbers" feel, too. There are obligatory gunfights and obligatory grim faces drinking whiskey and obligatory swaggering strolls around town and the obligatory woman arrives in town to complicate things.

No real interesting developments occur until 3/4 way through the film. Ed Harris' acting was great, Mortensen's was really great, Zellweger was, well, she was there. Most surprising to me was Jeremy Irons, who is usually thrilling to watch.

Here, though, he feels like he's not trying at all, like it's a script read-through. And his rich, distinctive voice could NOT carry a Western accent. Try 3:10 to Yuma for a recent Western with more impact and engaging storytelling.