Review of Pale Rider (1985) by Ivan D — 23 May 2010
We all knew his characters well in the western genre, yet we can't help but be completely enamored by his screen presence and the raw quiet intensity he brings to the screen. And after his significantly long hiatus of creating films in the said genre, enter "Pale Rider", a film that combines the mystery of "High Plains Drifter" and the compassion of "The Outlaw Josey Wales".
He took his good ol' ingredients and created a western film not set on humid landscapes of the far west, but icy hilltops, and an introduction of the protagonist not with one-sided gunslinging but a melee combat with clubs, a highly unusual opener in a film about a skillful gunman.
It's also great to see Richard Kiel of "The Spy Who Loved Me" fame, again playing the noble giant role, which just happened to be on the wrong side. "Pale Rider's" build-up was very strong and does not falter, with a climactic showdown with a result that's although clinched, still delivers the rightful goods of a pure Eastwood western.
This review of Pale Rider (1985) was written by Ivan D on 23 May 2010.
Pale Rider has generally received positive reviews.
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