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The Quick and the Dead
1987 90 min United States of America 16+
★6.9
Action, Drama, Western, TV Movie
Director: Robert Day
Trailers
Description
In 1876 Wyoming, the gun is the only law. And for Duncan and Suzanna McKaskel, newly arrived settlers beset by outlaws, rugged frontiersman Con Vallian is the only hope.
Starring
Sam Elliott
Actor
Tom Conti
Actor
Kate Capshaw
Actor
Awards
2 nominations total
Key opinion
This 1987 television Western is widely regarded as a solid, old-fashioned entry in the genre that succeeds despite a fairly simple and familiar plot. Strong, charismatic performances—particularly from Sam Elliott—and beautiful cinematography elevate the production above typical made-for-TV fare.
| Acting | Sam Elliott delivers a quintessential and charismatic performance as the mysterious, calm-mannered Western outsider. | |
| Cinematography | The film features breathtaking cinematography that effectively utilizes its Arizona setting to create a grand, authentic Western atmosphere. | |
| Ending | The narrative successfully balances a Shane-like tone with a satisfying, emotionally resonant finale. | |
| Screenplay | The screenplay is praised for its mature character work, though it leans on a somewhat hackneyed, simple plot structure. | |
| Acting | Opinions on performance quality are split; while adult leads are lauded for their nuance and stoicism, the child actor's performance and the portrayal of the antagonist are viewed as weak. |