Review of Open Range (2003) by Ken R — 10 Jun 2009
An effective western written and directed in tribute to the great John Ford. Costner uses Ford like shots and framing to excellent effect, but the ending drags out with an unnecessary escalation of a perfectly subtle and at first realistic romance. Better would be Costner and the perfectly cast Robert Duvall riding out of town without Annette Benning, before Duvall talks him into returning to town. Final shot: Kevin Costner in silhouette approaching her house near sunrise. Annetter Benning steps out and shields her eyes. Costner starts to walk forward to a fade to black. Subtle and more meaningful than ten minutes of awkward love pledges.
Besides that quibble, this is a very effective traditional western.
This review of Open Range (2003) was written by Ken R on 10 Jun 2009.
Open Range has generally received very positive reviews.
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