Review of Decision at Sundown (1957) by Zoran S — 11 Jan 2012

Decision at Sundown starts Randolph Scott as Bart Allison, a man who has just arrived in Sundown intent on getting revenge on Tate Kimbrough, a man which he believes is responsible for his wife's death.

The film leads you to believe that it's a simple revenge flick but what unfolds is a the story of a man whose terrible past has left a void in his soul. He keeps looking for someone to blame for what has transgressed and in doing so helps a whole town to realize that they need to stand up fro what is right and take back their self-respect.

Randolph Scott really gives a great performance in this film as Bart; he has an overwhelming screen presence and every line is delivered with emotion. A film that truly lives up to the "psychological western" label, as every character is multi-dimensional and fascinating dealing with their own past issues and/or present transgressions.

Budd Boetticher must have really been a believer in eyes being the key into our souls, as his camera always seems to focusing on the actors eyes. One scene in particular where this struck me is when Ruby, the mistress of Tate Kimbrough, is arguing with him about his marriage.

Kimbrough's arm even blocks half of her face in one shot, but her piercing eyes continue to hound. Really a beautifully realized film about the choices one makes and the internal demons which can haunt oneself.

Another great film by the criminally under -appreciated Budd Boetticher.