Review of The Big Sky (1952) by Marco I — 14 Mar 2009
The Boys' Own action-adventure stuff - all done for real: the boat tipping over, a hunting party catapulting fresh meat from the hillside - is still stirring, though Hawks' real interest lies in the company the men keep, and the sparky banter they keep up, around the campfire.
You could warm your hands on the democratic sentiments being expressed here: the arguments in favour of fair trade (and parity for the natives) receive an airing, the heroism and courage of these trailblazers is resolutely played down, catchphrases ("Sic 'em, Boone", "Well, I'll be dogged") rise up out of the flames, and even the amputation of Kirk's finger gets spun out into an amusingly boozy set-piece.
Less significant, perhaps, than "Red River" or "Rio Bravo" - the supporting cast is solid, rather than outstanding - it remains most convivial entertainment, with a welcome shot of mythic poetry in the final moments.
This review of The Big Sky (1952) was written by Marco I on 14 Mar 2009.
The Big Sky has generally received positive reviews.
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