Review of Pale Rider (1985) by Virgilio L — 28 Jun 2011

"....and behold a pale horse, his name that sat on him was DEATH.".

"....and hell followed with him.".

Another beautiful Western from the legend himself, Clint "the ultimate badass" Eastwood. Pale Rider is a gorgeously scenic and very well crafted film from Director Clint Eastwood (The Outlaw Josey Wales, Unforgiven). Eastwood is both behind and in front of the camera for one of the first times in his career, this man was born both to act and direct films. It's an excellent western, a great story of revenge and mystery. It's a mystical, bullet-riddled, frequently thrilling, totally enjoyable and utterly crystal-clear work of smashing and lasting western awesomeness. An outstanding portrayal of of the West, a spectacular story of greed, avengement, loyalty, corruption, romance and trigger happy violence. A very euphoric and atmospheric first-rate western that radiates with traditional western ambiance, Eastwood returned to the genre with this mid 80's classic and single-handedly returned the dying genre to greatness. Very similar in tone to other Eastwood classics such as "Joe Kidd" and "High Plains Drifter". A delightfully colossal enjoyment from the beginning to the end. Packed with some ambitious and deafening explosive shootouts and gun fights. Pale Rider is must-see entertainment for every western junkie.

Clint Eastwood never disappoints and gives a bombastic, no bull-shit performance that's just a thrill to watch. Mike Moriarty gives a great performance as well. Christopher Penn and Richard Dysart are excellent throughout as well in their dark performances.