An American western; A story set in Arizona about three outlaws entrusted with the care of a new born baby. Inspired by the fable of the Magi, it has themes about atonement and redemption, survival, and the pursuit of purpose in life. The director captures the desolation of desert, its vast and unforgiving environment which serves as brilliant setting for the test of the characters. The moving musical score is a useful bind for its many moments of warm-hearted camaraderie, high spirits and tension within the trio. By the third act, it layers religious and allegorical symbolism patently, which intrude on the plot and slow the pace. Nonetheless, it has a moving performance from John Wayne and impressive support from Pedro Armendariz, and Ward Bond as a sheriff in close pursuit.
Review of 3 Godfathers
