Review of The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (1966) by Nathan M — 24 Feb 2013

Though I may have been a skeptic of this film in the past, I can't deny its scarcely rivaled spectacularity.

While convenient at times, I can't muster much real criticism of the blindingly epic Civil War era story. What it lacks in "Once Upon A Time In The West" type focus and relevance, it makes up for in scope. Each of the three primary characters Blondie (The Good), Angel Eyes (The Bad), and Tuco (The Ugly), though one dimensional, are entertaining. Clint Eastwood's classic delivery goes without saying. The film covers quite a bit of geopolitical ground, crossing Civil War lines a few times in what should be New Mexico.

While I was left a bit disappointed upon first viewing, I realized on the second viewing that the film actually radiates style and freshness decades on. From the stylized opening credits, to the bold violence and fun use of freeze frames later on, this is no ordinary Western. The epic three hour extended cut is engrossing and fun almost all the way through.

Due to Leone's directing style, the single biggest problem with the film is poorly synchronized audio. There are way too many instances where the words said do not match the actors' lips. Looking beyond that somewhat shoddy sound editing, the film is visually beautiful. The Fascist Spain shooting locations and production design look good, giving convincing performances as Trans-Mississippi Theater New Mexico. Ennio Morricone's score is also awesomely iconic.

I still definitely think that Leone's "Once Upon A Time In The West" is possibly the best Western ever made, spaghetti or not. That being said, the epic scope and entertainment value of "The Good, The Bad and The Ugly" gives it premium access to the hall of classic films of any genre. (23 February 2013).