Review of Lonely are the Brave (1962) by Michael G — 26 Jul 2009
An overlooked classic from 1962 starring Kirk Douglas as John W. Burns, a cowboy out of touch with the modern world. Book-ended by two great shots, the opening of Douglas gazing at a jet plane streaking across the sky and the last shot of Kirk's hat on a rain soaked highway.
A fully realized, poignant, film experience with perhaps Douglas's finest hour as an actor. The bond between him and his horse Whiskey is heartfelt, Whiskey is his only friend, his last link to a world of open territory where men didn't need identification cards and permanent places of residence.
Gorgeous black and white cinematography and a good supporting turn from Walter Matthau as the man pursuing Douglas's character add to an already genuine classic. Do yourself a favor and discover "Lonely Are The Brave", don't be turned off if westerns aren't your cup of tea.
It's not a western per se, more a parable on humanity and an examination of a man not built for a modern world.
This review of Lonely are the Brave (1962) was written by Michael G on 26 Jul 2009.
Lonely are the Brave has generally received very positive reviews.
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