Director Phil Karlson is known more for his tough, gritty, violent crime dramas ("99 River Street," "The Phenix City Story," among others) than horse operas, but this tight little western is reminiscent of the best of Karlson's urban thrillers. Tab Hunter is excellent as the spoiled, egomaniacal, homicidal son of a wealthy rancher, who believes that his family's riches and position are pretty much a blank check that enables him to do whatever he wants to whoever he wants, including murder, because he knows that his father's influence will get him out of trouble. Hunter's tightly wound, controlled performance is a real eye-opener for those who always thought of him as just another pretty boy teen idol who couldn't act (i.e., Ricky Nelson, Fabian, etc.). This is by far Hunter's best work. You can see his internal spring winding tighter and tighter as he pushes the envelope further and further until it's just a matter of time before he explodes. Van Heflin is solid as his father, who's too busy building and maintaining an empire and can't, or won't, see the evil that manifests itself in his son, and veteran character actor Robert F. Simon is very good as the town sheriff and Heflin's friend, who realizes that he's given Hunter one too many breaks and is torn between his obligations to his friend and his duty as a lawman. Mickey Shaughnessy, who often played oafish drunks, dimwitted gangsters or other types of comic relief, strikes just the right note as a sympathetic deputy who doesn't think that Hunter is really as bad as his reputation. Karlson directs with his usual energy, marked by his trademark quick, explosive bursts of action. An intriguing film, despite its potboiler title, and worth a look for Hunter's fine performance and Karlson's vigorous direction.
41 Reviews
Van Heflin's powerful performance
westerner35731 July 2003
Warning: Spoilers
Unlike sandcrab's bitter politically-correct review below, I happen to put this one on my A list for 50s westerns.
Van Heflin plays a hard cattle rancher who wants the best for his two boys. One (Tab Hunter) is wild, spoiled and bitter about following in his father's shadow, the other (James Darren) is soft, gentle, not prone to gunplay like his older brother is. Heflin is very effective at playing the overindulgent father, blind to the realities that both boys are dealing with.
The conflict begins when Hunter and a half-breed Sioux (Bert Convy) that his father has hired, race after a prized white stallion that they've been trying to catch for some time now. Hunter runs his horse into the Indian, forcing him off a cliff into an arroyo, plunging to his death below. Two other Indians witness this and will later testify against Hunter at his trial.
At the trial, a drifting horse trader (Ray Teal) testifies in favor of Hunter for a price of 10 mustangs and the white stallion. Heflin catches on to Teal's game and agrees to it in order to protect his son, but warns Teal to get out of town and don't come back or else. In the meantime, Darren has fallen in love with the dead Indian's sister (Kathryn Grant) which also further complicates things between himself and his father.
As Hunter sees Teal riding the herd including the white stallion through town, he goes down and confronts Teal and demands the white stallion back. When he refuses, he draws on Teal and shoots him off his horse, severely wounding him. Hunter is placed in jail but once again daddy Heflin covers up for him by offering Teal a bribe he can't refuse.
But it all doesn't matter because Hunter breaks out of jail, killing the unarmed deputy (Mickey Shaughnessy) in the process, and forcing the town to form a posse to go after him. Even Heflin can't save his boy at this point, but he knows where he's headed and he gets there before the posse does, thereby provoking a showdown between father and son.
With taught direction by Phil Karlson, an excellent script and tight story by Frank Nugent & Ric Hardman along with a powerful performance by Van Heflin, this one deserves to be in any western film buff's collection. I recommend it wholeheartedly. All I hope is that it will be released on DVD, someday.
8 out of 10
Van Heflin plays a hard cattle rancher who wants the best for his two boys. One (Tab Hunter) is wild, spoiled and bitter about following in his father's shadow, the other (James Darren) is soft, gentle, not prone to gunplay like his older brother is. Heflin is very effective at playing the overindulgent father, blind to the realities that both boys are dealing with.
The conflict begins when Hunter and a half-breed Sioux (Bert Convy) that his father has hired, race after a prized white stallion that they've been trying to catch for some time now. Hunter runs his horse into the Indian, forcing him off a cliff into an arroyo, plunging to his death below. Two other Indians witness this and will later testify against Hunter at his trial.
At the trial, a drifting horse trader (Ray Teal) testifies in favor of Hunter for a price of 10 mustangs and the white stallion. Heflin catches on to Teal's game and agrees to it in order to protect his son, but warns Teal to get out of town and don't come back or else. In the meantime, Darren has fallen in love with the dead Indian's sister (Kathryn Grant) which also further complicates things between himself and his father.
As Hunter sees Teal riding the herd including the white stallion through town, he goes down and confronts Teal and demands the white stallion back. When he refuses, he draws on Teal and shoots him off his horse, severely wounding him. Hunter is placed in jail but once again daddy Heflin covers up for him by offering Teal a bribe he can't refuse.
But it all doesn't matter because Hunter breaks out of jail, killing the unarmed deputy (Mickey Shaughnessy) in the process, and forcing the town to form a posse to go after him. Even Heflin can't save his boy at this point, but he knows where he's headed and he gets there before the posse does, thereby provoking a showdown between father and son.
With taught direction by Phil Karlson, an excellent script and tight story by Frank Nugent & Ric Hardman along with a powerful performance by Van Heflin, this one deserves to be in any western film buff's collection. I recommend it wholeheartedly. All I hope is that it will be released on DVD, someday.
8 out of 10
The Times They Are a-Changin'
wes-connors13 July 2011
Naughty blond Tab Hunter (as Ed Hackett) and nice brother James Darren (as Davy) clash with not only each other, but also their rancher father Van Heflin (as Lee). This interesting western focuses mainly on Mr. Hunter's character. The dependable Frank Nugent adapted it from a story by new writer Ric Hardman. The thesis appears to show how the philosophy, which built the "old west", does not survive through the next generation; it must adapt, or die. Hunter is disarming at first - which turns out to be exactly the point. He and Mr. Heflin, an asset in most every film, are very good. Their performances "tell" the story.
Unfortunately, Mr. Darren hasn't much to do but stand around. His important character might have been better developed by having father Heflin reveal he sired Darren with what he refers to as a "squaw" - then decided the baby could pass as white. This would fit in nicely with the subplot involving attractive Kathryn Grant (as Clee Chouard), passing herself off here as what they are calling a "half breed". She has less to do than Darren does. "Gunman's Walk" misses some opportunities, but what's here is good. Director Phil Karlson and photographer Charles Lawton Jr. create a beautiful landscape for the characters.
****** Gunman's Walk (7/15/58) Phil Karlson ~ Tab Hunter, Van Heflin, James Darren, Kathryn Grant
Unfortunately, Mr. Darren hasn't much to do but stand around. His important character might have been better developed by having father Heflin reveal he sired Darren with what he refers to as a "squaw" - then decided the baby could pass as white. This would fit in nicely with the subplot involving attractive Kathryn Grant (as Clee Chouard), passing herself off here as what they are calling a "half breed". She has less to do than Darren does. "Gunman's Walk" misses some opportunities, but what's here is good. Director Phil Karlson and photographer Charles Lawton Jr. create a beautiful landscape for the characters.
****** Gunman's Walk (7/15/58) Phil Karlson ~ Tab Hunter, Van Heflin, James Darren, Kathryn Grant
intriguing Western with racial subplot
Marlburian20 September 2007
The plot seemed quite fresh (even after my second viewing), though on analysis it includes familiar themes: tension between brothers, conflict between son and father leading to tragedy. A lot of this is down to the way it portrays the steady - not to say rapid - deterioration of the elder son so that he becomes a murderer; Tab Hunter deserves a lot of credit for this; at first he seems to be just a bit of a tearaway, but at the end he looks really vicious.
I like Van Heflin. He was great as the tortured Athos in "The Three Musketeers" and the decent homesteaders in "Shane" and "3.10 to Yuma", but I'm not sure that he carries off being the tough patriarch who won the country from the Indians.
Viewing the film in the political correctness of 2007, I blinked at the verbal racial abuse inflicted on the native Americans; two days later, I'm still trying to think of another 1950s Western where it was so overt. (I'm talking of verbal abuse, rather than cowboys killing lots of Indians.) The film proceeds at a pleasing rate, except for the somewhat overlong shooting-at-bottles scene very early on.
I don't know if "I'm a Runaway" was ever a "proper" song, but it was quite catching, even when sung by Hunter, and for once I didn't object to a musical interlude in an action film.
I like Van Heflin. He was great as the tortured Athos in "The Three Musketeers" and the decent homesteaders in "Shane" and "3.10 to Yuma", but I'm not sure that he carries off being the tough patriarch who won the country from the Indians.
Viewing the film in the political correctness of 2007, I blinked at the verbal racial abuse inflicted on the native Americans; two days later, I'm still trying to think of another 1950s Western where it was so overt. (I'm talking of verbal abuse, rather than cowboys killing lots of Indians.) The film proceeds at a pleasing rate, except for the somewhat overlong shooting-at-bottles scene very early on.
I don't know if "I'm a Runaway" was ever a "proper" song, but it was quite catching, even when sung by Hunter, and for once I didn't object to a musical interlude in an action film.
I'm A Runaway.
hitchcockthelegend2 July 2009
Rancher and old school westerner Lee Hackett is determined to mould his two sons in his own tough gun-fighting image. Something that backfires when his eldest boy, Ed, becomes a murderer.
Gunman's Walk on plot synopsis and summaries sounds like your standard B Western fare, and certainly the theme of parental influence is nothing new. But Phil Karlson's film, adapted from Ric Hardman's story, has many things going for it to keep it from being mundane and used solely as a time filler. It fuses together multiple issues, parenting, prejudice and ignorance during a time of change in the old Wild West, it's central character, Lee Hackett (Van Heflin), is seen as the link between old and new.
He has primarily lived his life as a shooter and killer of Indians, something that he is not totally committed to shaking off, but here he is now, a most respected and feared member of the community, faced with his two sons both taking different paths. One, Ed (Tab Hunter), is full of bile and gun slinging machismo, represents the old West. The other, Davy (James Darren), doesn't need a gun to feel like a man, his affection for half Indian Clee Chouard (Kathryn Grant) clearly gives a point of reference to the new West. It gives us two sides of the coin with one Lee Hackett perched firmly on the fence, to which Van Heflin gives an emotionally driven standout performance.
I wouldn't say that Gunman's Walk is undervalued as such (its director most definitely is though), it's possibly more like it's been tarred with that old saying brush called "B Western", a saying that unfortunately some use as being derogatory. Whilst if the truth be told the support to Heflin is rather flat (both Hunter & Darren are average at best). But some average support acting can't stop Gunman's Walk from being an intelligent and potent genre piece. I mean if only for Heflin and the catchy central song, "I'm A Runaway", then you should see this, but as it is, if you give it your undivided attention you hopefully will find it's really rather good and clever. 7/10
Gunman's Walk on plot synopsis and summaries sounds like your standard B Western fare, and certainly the theme of parental influence is nothing new. But Phil Karlson's film, adapted from Ric Hardman's story, has many things going for it to keep it from being mundane and used solely as a time filler. It fuses together multiple issues, parenting, prejudice and ignorance during a time of change in the old Wild West, it's central character, Lee Hackett (Van Heflin), is seen as the link between old and new.
He has primarily lived his life as a shooter and killer of Indians, something that he is not totally committed to shaking off, but here he is now, a most respected and feared member of the community, faced with his two sons both taking different paths. One, Ed (Tab Hunter), is full of bile and gun slinging machismo, represents the old West. The other, Davy (James Darren), doesn't need a gun to feel like a man, his affection for half Indian Clee Chouard (Kathryn Grant) clearly gives a point of reference to the new West. It gives us two sides of the coin with one Lee Hackett perched firmly on the fence, to which Van Heflin gives an emotionally driven standout performance.
I wouldn't say that Gunman's Walk is undervalued as such (its director most definitely is though), it's possibly more like it's been tarred with that old saying brush called "B Western", a saying that unfortunately some use as being derogatory. Whilst if the truth be told the support to Heflin is rather flat (both Hunter & Darren are average at best). But some average support acting can't stop Gunman's Walk from being an intelligent and potent genre piece. I mean if only for Heflin and the catchy central song, "I'm A Runaway", then you should see this, but as it is, if you give it your undivided attention you hopefully will find it's really rather good and clever. 7/10
I'm gonna catch this horse if I can.
dbdumonteil15 March 2009
Very good western,where one more time the villain (Tab Hunter) is much more interesting than the good (James Darren) and his bland girlfriend . The a- man -had-two-sons subject was plundered since the Bible was written ,but,unlike "East of Eden" ,in the boys rivalry for the love of their fathers,it's the one the old man likes best who turns out badly."I wish you could be like your brother" he says to dutiful Davy.The relationship between Ed and Lee Hackett is much subtler than it at first appears.Good use of cinemascope,notably in the scene when Ed Hackett catches a beautiful white mare.The ending is a bit too predictable but it is a thoroughly enjoyable western.
"The Hacketts were here before the law"
bkoganbing11 July 2011
Van Heflin heads the cast of Gunman's Walk and he's the head of the local Ponderosa in his part of the west. He's not as noble as Ben Cartwright or as mean Rufe Ryker in Shane. He's got two sons, one good and one bad, played by James Darren and Tab Hunter.
These guys pretty much do as they please even in these relatively civilized times. For instance Tab Hunter and Van Heflin both wear their six guns to town even though there's a law against it now. Reason being is that they were there before the law and they don't answer to it even if the sheriff is an old friend in Robert F. Simon.
Hunter is taking a lot of the wrong values from Heflin. When he rides an Indian ranch hand off a cliff in pursuit of a wild horse, he's brought up on murder charges. This sets off a chain of events that result in tragedy.
In the meantime younger son James Darren's courtship of half Sioux maiden Kathryn Crosby whose brother was the one Hunter rode off the cliff is setting off some other issues with Heflin. The Indians are living on the reservation now with a rare honest Indian agent Edward Platt looking out for them. Still Heflin remembers nothing but the bad old days except when he needs them as extra hands.
Van Heflin never gave a bad performance in any film he was in. But this film does belong to Tab Hunter who breaks from teen idol mode into a character role of depth.
As for the film it might best be compared to the Robert Taylor/John Cassavetes western from the previous year, Saddle The Wind. There's lots of similarities in the relationship between Taylor and Cassavetes and Heflin and Hunter. And the ending is the same.
These guys pretty much do as they please even in these relatively civilized times. For instance Tab Hunter and Van Heflin both wear their six guns to town even though there's a law against it now. Reason being is that they were there before the law and they don't answer to it even if the sheriff is an old friend in Robert F. Simon.
Hunter is taking a lot of the wrong values from Heflin. When he rides an Indian ranch hand off a cliff in pursuit of a wild horse, he's brought up on murder charges. This sets off a chain of events that result in tragedy.
In the meantime younger son James Darren's courtship of half Sioux maiden Kathryn Crosby whose brother was the one Hunter rode off the cliff is setting off some other issues with Heflin. The Indians are living on the reservation now with a rare honest Indian agent Edward Platt looking out for them. Still Heflin remembers nothing but the bad old days except when he needs them as extra hands.
Van Heflin never gave a bad performance in any film he was in. But this film does belong to Tab Hunter who breaks from teen idol mode into a character role of depth.
As for the film it might best be compared to the Robert Taylor/John Cassavetes western from the previous year, Saddle The Wind. There's lots of similarities in the relationship between Taylor and Cassavetes and Heflin and Hunter. And the ending is the same.
Underrated Western Gem
emdragon15 May 2005
Van Heflin played second lead in a score of pictures over 3 decades. In this excellent western he gets to play the lead, and his performance is one of the greatest of his long career. He displays a completely believable fatherly range of emotion and makes the audience identify with his 'how the west was won' mentality. Phil Karlson's deft direction keeps the pacing of this picture very crisp and poignant. The settings and western scenes are also quite excellent. All of this has been said without mentioning Tab Hunter's taught performance, which is really the defining touch that makes this movie great. Surprisingly, Hunter was a teen idol especially developed by the movie studio to be just another screen image. He defied the studios by delivering this amazing performance as a wild and reckless young man growing up in the shadow of his father's hard nosed old western legacy, determined to leave his own stamp on the developing times in the west. Gunman's Walk may be the most underrated western in screen history. It almost feels like a real metaphor for the western motif, and the changing civilization that beckons just over the horizon.
The seed of this tree was nurtured with a gun and raised violently.
thinker169118 February 2014
The western Novel written by author Ric Hardman, is the bases for this film called " Gunman's Walk. " But the title is deceptive. It should have been called, ' The violent seed, ' . Directed by Phil Karlson, it tells the story of a brooding, malcontented young man (Tab Hunter) who was raised by his father (Van Heflin) to be rough, tough, and hard drinking. What little discipline the father offered was misplace and shoddy. Anything which could torn from the land was acceptable, if not it could always be bought, traded for, or stolen. The law, as seen by the Hacketts' is seen as a hindrance and as a last resort. The Hackett name was a powerful brand which produced fear and often as not, the father saw to it no one stood in his way. James Darren, who plays Davy Hackett, is the other son which the father disliked, is believed to be a half breed and the weaker of the two boys. The movie is fast paced but shallow and tab Hunter is seen as caring the entire weight of the film on his wild shoulders. Still, for a 1950's a western, it marks a turning point for the country and for later sagas. ****
Unique Socio-Psychological Western
David Elroy14 December 2001
I give this movie a 9 out of 10 for its earnest (yet not overdone) acting, sympathetic (yet not sappy) treatment of Indians, and exuberant (yet not overwhelming) energy level throughout. The relatively unknown actors and filmmakers really tried hard here. Aside from the family conflict, there is an intriguing treatment of the theme of historical change and how the Old West relates to the New - also seen in movies such as Bus Stop, The Misfits, and Lonely are the Brave.
Gunman's Walk is not perfect - things get 'explained' a bit too neatly at the Freudian conclusion, for example - but there is scarcely a dull or uninteresting moment. Don't miss the unique details in this film, such as the instant mood swings that the characters, especially the Father, go through, and the astonishing bar scene where the Big Brother cavorts with hookers and sings "I'm a Runaway."
This is a very unusual western and it comes highly recommended.
Gunman's Walk is not perfect - things get 'explained' a bit too neatly at the Freudian conclusion, for example - but there is scarcely a dull or uninteresting moment. Don't miss the unique details in this film, such as the instant mood swings that the characters, especially the Father, go through, and the astonishing bar scene where the Big Brother cavorts with hookers and sings "I'm a Runaway."
This is a very unusual western and it comes highly recommended.
Very familiar but with a slight twist that makes it worth your time
planktonrules19 January 2015
The story idea for "Gunman's Walk" is extremely familiar. It's the story of a powerful and rich family that tamed the land, the Hacketts. Now, decades later, the toughness that helped them during the early days now is simply out of date--especially since young Ed (Tab Hunter) has been routinely enabled by the patriarch, Lee (Van Heflin). Now Ed seems to think he can do anything with absolute impunity--and Lee seems to be giving him the message that this is just fine, as he'll once again save the boy from his own hubris. In other films like "Last Train from Gun Hill", "The Big Country" and "Duel in the Sun", very similar themes abound.
So what makes this one different? Well, seeing pretty-boy Tab Hunter playing Ed helps make it unique. Also contrasting him with the 'nice' brother (James Darren) worked well--as did the gritty ending. Overall, while very familiar, it works well.
So what makes this one different? Well, seeing pretty-boy Tab Hunter playing Ed helps make it unique. Also contrasting him with the 'nice' brother (James Darren) worked well--as did the gritty ending. Overall, while very familiar, it works well.
outstanding movie which requires more thought than you may think
drystyx20 February 2008
"Gunman's Walk" is not only outstanding on the entertainment level, it also presents what could be clichéd material in a superbly directed and written comment on many issues.
The story is an action Western first. Van Heflin, easily one of the greatest of all Western actors, plays a rugged Western hero of the old pioneer days, who participated in many wars against the Native American. Unlike the more sugar coated stories of many Westerns, he is not forgiving of his enemy, and his character is still much the same man when he enters a new era. Heflin's character is now a big man in his territory, respected and feared by all.
Heflin gives this character an incredible likability, which in retrospect, makes him even scarier. It is easy to compare this man with Anthony Quinn in "Last Train to Gun Hill", another impressive performance by another great actor. Except this man is much friendlier and less menacing, yet he commands the respect for his abilities with guns, fists, and bravery.
Heflin now has a big ranch and two sons. The older one, Tab Hunter, wants to be the big hero his father was, but lives in an era when the Native American is not at war with them. In fact, Ed Platt plays an Indian agent who tries to protect the native population from Hunter's outbursts, to no avail. The younger son, James Darren, is perfectly cast as the dove of the family, who abhors violence. To make matters worse, he is attracted to a beautiful Native American girl, which puts him as the one bearing the brunt of suffering in the middle from both sides. Heflin is going along with the times, but not by conventional means. He hangs on to his valor by recalling his feats in the past. Hunter constantly hears the exploits with other older men in the saloon, speaking as if they were in Floyd's Mayberry RFD barber shop.
This film does an excellent job on hitting this theatrical drama of life. Like Opie in the barber shop, the oldest son is fascinated by the stories and the world that existed before he was born. The younger brother played by Darren, envisions the Indians as a necessary part of this existence.
Exploits against the native Americans that aren't allowed any more, but Hunter wants to have such stories told about him some day. Heflin's character hasn't moved with the times. He simply laughs at them. He raises his sons to be fighters and the end result is that the oldest son steps way over any civilized line. The climax is not exactly hidden. We know that Heflin must confront himself, and he does this by confronting his sons. One he admires, and the other he disowns midway through the movie. By the end, he realizes his mistake. But all through the movie, characters remind us that Hunter isn't the one who caused it all. It is actually Heflin. Yet Heflin's performance is so great that instead of seeing him for the evil man he is, we pity him, and don't blame him. Much like the crafty Fred March in "Hombre", one of the evilest men in Westerns, yet able to snake oil his way through it. Heflin's attitude and character is in the oldest son, and he was responsible. In the end, Heflin admits this, and we forgive him at first, when we see him break down.
However, this movie requires much thought. It gives a very frightening picture of the truth about prejudice, and about the evil that is allowed to pass on through cultures and generations, and the way it is done. It is a movie we should watch and learn from, and it is done in a very sneaky way. A must see movie.
The story is an action Western first. Van Heflin, easily one of the greatest of all Western actors, plays a rugged Western hero of the old pioneer days, who participated in many wars against the Native American. Unlike the more sugar coated stories of many Westerns, he is not forgiving of his enemy, and his character is still much the same man when he enters a new era. Heflin's character is now a big man in his territory, respected and feared by all.
Heflin gives this character an incredible likability, which in retrospect, makes him even scarier. It is easy to compare this man with Anthony Quinn in "Last Train to Gun Hill", another impressive performance by another great actor. Except this man is much friendlier and less menacing, yet he commands the respect for his abilities with guns, fists, and bravery.
Heflin now has a big ranch and two sons. The older one, Tab Hunter, wants to be the big hero his father was, but lives in an era when the Native American is not at war with them. In fact, Ed Platt plays an Indian agent who tries to protect the native population from Hunter's outbursts, to no avail. The younger son, James Darren, is perfectly cast as the dove of the family, who abhors violence. To make matters worse, he is attracted to a beautiful Native American girl, which puts him as the one bearing the brunt of suffering in the middle from both sides. Heflin is going along with the times, but not by conventional means. He hangs on to his valor by recalling his feats in the past. Hunter constantly hears the exploits with other older men in the saloon, speaking as if they were in Floyd's Mayberry RFD barber shop.
This film does an excellent job on hitting this theatrical drama of life. Like Opie in the barber shop, the oldest son is fascinated by the stories and the world that existed before he was born. The younger brother played by Darren, envisions the Indians as a necessary part of this existence.
Exploits against the native Americans that aren't allowed any more, but Hunter wants to have such stories told about him some day. Heflin's character hasn't moved with the times. He simply laughs at them. He raises his sons to be fighters and the end result is that the oldest son steps way over any civilized line. The climax is not exactly hidden. We know that Heflin must confront himself, and he does this by confronting his sons. One he admires, and the other he disowns midway through the movie. By the end, he realizes his mistake. But all through the movie, characters remind us that Hunter isn't the one who caused it all. It is actually Heflin. Yet Heflin's performance is so great that instead of seeing him for the evil man he is, we pity him, and don't blame him. Much like the crafty Fred March in "Hombre", one of the evilest men in Westerns, yet able to snake oil his way through it. Heflin's attitude and character is in the oldest son, and he was responsible. In the end, Heflin admits this, and we forgive him at first, when we see him break down.
However, this movie requires much thought. It gives a very frightening picture of the truth about prejudice, and about the evil that is allowed to pass on through cultures and generations, and the way it is done. It is a movie we should watch and learn from, and it is done in a very sneaky way. A must see movie.
Oedipus in the Saddle
richardchatten30 December 2019
Behind this rather misleading title is a family western similar to 'Broken Lance' shot in beautiful autumnal colours by Charles Lawton Jr. and with a towering performance by Van Heflin as the patriarch on collision course with his hot-headed elder son Tab Hunter.
Among an interesting supporting cast it's nice to see Paul Birch in an 'A' feature for once; while Ray Teal sans moustache has a larger role than usual playing an even bigger skunk than usual.
Among an interesting supporting cast it's nice to see Paul Birch in an 'A' feature for once; while Ray Teal sans moustache has a larger role than usual playing an even bigger skunk than usual.
Odd casting pays off, though script is on the outlandish side...
moonspinner5514 October 2021
Powerful rancher dotes on his eldest son while his younger boy fails to assert himself; all that changes, however, after the older kid is accused of murder. Columbia western photographed in CinemaScope is engrossing and surprisingly well-acted, if curiously cast. Tab Hunter may pass muster as Van Heflin's son, but he and James Darren are unlikely brothers. Nevertheless, all three actors are solid, even as Frank S. Nugent's screenplay gets more outlandish with each new turn, leading to a preposterous finale. While it is unique to see a father and son squaring off, the scene makes no sense in the context of this story (and neither does Heflin's dialogue at this point). Hunter is to be commended for taking on this unlikable role--that of a cocky, scurrilous bully with no conscience--and yet the character's behavior as written is unbelievable. Director Phil Karlson, shooting on both sets and on various Arizona locations, delivers a tough, mercurial picture, though it isn't one that leaves positive feelings behind. **1/2 from ****
Almost Biblical.
rmax30482327 August 2012
Warning: Spoilers
Phil Karlson was an erratic director who could sometimes hit one out of the ball park, perhaps without meaning to, as in "Walking Tall." This is one of his better efforts, with some intrinsic ambiguity. There are some interesting moral dilemmas. For instance, you love your son. Would you kill him if he were threatening to kill you?
The beetle-browed Van Heflin is splendid, as usual. After one or two stereotyped parts in his early career, he began to bring a great deal of conviction to his roles. He may have given the best performance in "Shane." And he's convincing here, too, as one of those "powerful men around here" who fought the Indians and enforced his own law when none other was available.
But now, some years have gone by and that approach is out dated. Heflin doesn't quite seem to realize it. He runs his ranch honestly and he's a man of honor but he remains a racist. The town is now settled peacefully and has a sheriff and a deputy, which Heflin treats with friendly disdain.
But his real trouble is with his two sons, reckless and increasingly violent Tab Hunter, and law-abiding tolerant James Darren -- one good, one bad. Heflin approves of the bad son who gets drunk sometimes, has a sweet temper, is quick with his fists, and doesn't like to be bested in any contest. It reminds Heflin of his own youth.
The problem is that Hunter's infractions grow beyond the tolerable. The sheriff is an old friend of Heflin's but when Hunter shoots and kills a couple of men, he has to draw the line. So does Heflin, who now sees what he's responsible for.
Heflin is fine. Katherine Grant is a half breed who is only around so that the tender-hearted Darren can fall in love with her and Heflin can vent his hatred of Indians. ("That SQUAW!") The supporting cast is fine, a good handful of seasoned professionals.
The sons are two handsome young heart throbs of the period. Neither can act. There is handsome young Tab Hunter, outfitted in tight shirts and slacks; and there is handsome young James Darren, in looser clothing as befits someone who doesn't like guns but can love a squaw. Behind the nicely chiseled Aryan face of Tab Hunter lies Arthur Andrew Kelm, a strapping kid from New York who looked good enough to get into the movies although he never uttered a believable word. And behind the troubled yet hopeful eyes of James Darren, we find James William Ercolani, a kid from Philadelphia who looked good enough to get into the movies although he never uttered a believable word.
The story's moral complexity lifts it out of the ordinary shoot-'em-up Western. The two heart throbs almost sink it but it survives despite the carnage they've wrought.
The beetle-browed Van Heflin is splendid, as usual. After one or two stereotyped parts in his early career, he began to bring a great deal of conviction to his roles. He may have given the best performance in "Shane." And he's convincing here, too, as one of those "powerful men around here" who fought the Indians and enforced his own law when none other was available.
But now, some years have gone by and that approach is out dated. Heflin doesn't quite seem to realize it. He runs his ranch honestly and he's a man of honor but he remains a racist. The town is now settled peacefully and has a sheriff and a deputy, which Heflin treats with friendly disdain.
But his real trouble is with his two sons, reckless and increasingly violent Tab Hunter, and law-abiding tolerant James Darren -- one good, one bad. Heflin approves of the bad son who gets drunk sometimes, has a sweet temper, is quick with his fists, and doesn't like to be bested in any contest. It reminds Heflin of his own youth.
The problem is that Hunter's infractions grow beyond the tolerable. The sheriff is an old friend of Heflin's but when Hunter shoots and kills a couple of men, he has to draw the line. So does Heflin, who now sees what he's responsible for.
Heflin is fine. Katherine Grant is a half breed who is only around so that the tender-hearted Darren can fall in love with her and Heflin can vent his hatred of Indians. ("That SQUAW!") The supporting cast is fine, a good handful of seasoned professionals.
The sons are two handsome young heart throbs of the period. Neither can act. There is handsome young Tab Hunter, outfitted in tight shirts and slacks; and there is handsome young James Darren, in looser clothing as befits someone who doesn't like guns but can love a squaw. Behind the nicely chiseled Aryan face of Tab Hunter lies Arthur Andrew Kelm, a strapping kid from New York who looked good enough to get into the movies although he never uttered a believable word. And behind the troubled yet hopeful eyes of James Darren, we find James William Ercolani, a kid from Philadelphia who looked good enough to get into the movies although he never uttered a believable word.
The story's moral complexity lifts it out of the ordinary shoot-'em-up Western. The two heart throbs almost sink it but it survives despite the carnage they've wrought.
Pleasant Surprise
DKosty12312 July 2011
Warning: Spoilers
I was surprised when this was shown on TCM for the first time the impact this film has. This is one of Van Heflin's better performances. Tab Hunter is cast well as one of his sons. James Darren is another one though his role is more secondary than Hunter.
Ed Platt (Chief of Control on Get Smart) has a very good role as a lawyer. This movie seems stocked with good character actors.
The script has Heflin as the aged gunfighter with two sons who now owns a big spread outside of town. He teaches his sons the benefits of using guns. This teaching back fires on him in an interesting way. The surprise here is the strength of the ending.
Heflin is not the hero of the old Westerns here. His character is deeper and he does things that hero's don't do. This is a really well done film.
Ed Platt (Chief of Control on Get Smart) has a very good role as a lawyer. This movie seems stocked with good character actors.
The script has Heflin as the aged gunfighter with two sons who now owns a big spread outside of town. He teaches his sons the benefits of using guns. This teaching back fires on him in an interesting way. The surprise here is the strength of the ending.
Heflin is not the hero of the old Westerns here. His character is deeper and he does things that hero's don't do. This is a really well done film.
"Son, I quit worryin' about you ten minutes ago".
classicsoncall11 July 2011
Warning: Spoilers
Well I've seen more than my share of Western films, but I can't think of another one right now where a man throws down against his own father. One would think youth would prevail, child is father to the man as it were, but not in "Gunman's Walk", a title that doesn't quite fit the story but that's nothing new for the genre.
I caught this one on Turner Classics this evening, neatly timed to coincide with Tab Hunter's eightieth birthday. Cast against type, he portrays 'wild' brother Ed Hackett along side James Darren's more peaceable sibling Davy; they in turn the sons of veteran actor Van Heflin who seems more interesting as a hard case than the characters he portrayed in "Shane" and "3:10 to Yuma".
Hunter is actually pretty good here with a vicious streak that catches you off guard. He really hits stride by the time he confronts father Lee (Heflin) at the bar toward the end of the film. He seemed just slightly forced in that scene, but otherwise it suited the moment to set up the final showdown. I had to wince a bit though when Hunter took up with the pair of saloon gals and blared into 'I'm a Runaway'. I know Hunter had a briefly successful singing career, but you couldn't tell here. He certainly didn't have anything on Rick Nelson in "Rio Bravo".
If you liked Van Heflin's performance, you might want to look up another Western he starred in toward the end of his career - 1968's "The Ruthless Four". He plays a similar hard edged character and it might be a toss up as to which was the better role. Come to think of it, I'm having a little trouble deciding myself, so you'll have to make up your own mind.
Overall, a competent Western, though I didn't find it as compelling as most of the other reviewers on this board. Personally, I thought the Technicolor format worked against it, odd as that might sound. To me, it had the feel of a Fifties B Western and would have come off a bit grittier in good old black and white.
I caught this one on Turner Classics this evening, neatly timed to coincide with Tab Hunter's eightieth birthday. Cast against type, he portrays 'wild' brother Ed Hackett along side James Darren's more peaceable sibling Davy; they in turn the sons of veteran actor Van Heflin who seems more interesting as a hard case than the characters he portrayed in "Shane" and "3:10 to Yuma".
Hunter is actually pretty good here with a vicious streak that catches you off guard. He really hits stride by the time he confronts father Lee (Heflin) at the bar toward the end of the film. He seemed just slightly forced in that scene, but otherwise it suited the moment to set up the final showdown. I had to wince a bit though when Hunter took up with the pair of saloon gals and blared into 'I'm a Runaway'. I know Hunter had a briefly successful singing career, but you couldn't tell here. He certainly didn't have anything on Rick Nelson in "Rio Bravo".
If you liked Van Heflin's performance, you might want to look up another Western he starred in toward the end of his career - 1968's "The Ruthless Four". He plays a similar hard edged character and it might be a toss up as to which was the better role. Come to think of it, I'm having a little trouble deciding myself, so you'll have to make up your own mind.
Overall, a competent Western, though I didn't find it as compelling as most of the other reviewers on this board. Personally, I thought the Technicolor format worked against it, odd as that might sound. To me, it had the feel of a Fifties B Western and would have come off a bit grittier in good old black and white.
Tab Hunter's overlooked, marvelous performance.
audacious118 December 2017
This western is well directed and smartly acted by all involved, but the stand out performance is Tab Hunter's role as the oldest son, Ed. The story begins at the point of our witnessing the finality of Ed's hatred and idolatry of his father, a hard-as-nails, always-has-to-be-better-than-his-sons kind of man. Ed is wound so tight that he has little give for anyone.
This performance reminds me of Denzel Washington's Oscar winning role in Glory. As the story goes along, more and more nuances are revealed that show the depth of the character. I watched Glory three times before I caught the depth in that character that deserved an Oscar. I have watched Gunman's Walk twice and saw more depth in Hunter's character the second time. It's a fascinating role (maybe Hunter was drawing from the anger he felt for having to hide himself within the Hollywood treatment he underwent) and I don't think anyone could have played Ed any better.
It is a shame when such levels of acting come out of actors not expected to do so brilliantly, because they don't get their just recognition, kind of like Val Kilmer's Doc in Tombstone. Hunter was the beefcake, male blond beauty presented in such a manner by Hollywood. He wasn't expected to actually act well, they didn't even consider it (and he didn't do very well with most of the movies they put him in). When you read the biography of Hunter given here on IMDb, Gunman's Walk isn't even mentioned. The focus is on his Hollywood image.
Hunter's Ed is well worth the look. Heflin's Lee (everyone calls him Lee, including his sons) is very well acted and, but for Hunter's performance, shines as the gregarious, tough, but flawed father who had no idea how to raise his sons. In the scenes the two are together, the tension is always there and they play off each other well.
All the acting is done well (Bert Convy's ability to ride a horse well is suspect, though). The movie is tightly directed, the action is constant, and there are no scenes that will lull you to sleep. If you like westerns with tense action and flawed characters, you won't be disappointed with Gunman's Walk.
Interesting little western
rc2232 February 2001
Interesting if minor western about a horse trading patriarch who fails to notice what a cold-hearted killer his son has become. Just like the old man. Fast-moving but over-simplistic characterization leaves it a little short of its potential. [6/10]
unusually smart western
kccole-112 July 2019
I just saw this, for the first time, on TCM (July 2019) . It's an amazing film experience. I'm not a fan of westerns, by and large. This is one I can recommend. The storytelling engages the timeless themes of fathers and sons, and does so in a way that touches your heart directly enough that you can overlook the one or two fairly obvious scenes.
Tab Hunter was the real deal. :)
Tab Hunter was the real deal. :)
A genuinely good Western!.
tcwaterford23 May 2022
Van Heflin in the lead, is genuinely good!, in fact overall the acting is far above average.
The script writing does let the movie down in parts, but the acting makes up for it, no doubt!.
It IS a movie which is very much worth seeking out, if you have not already seen it!.
The storyline and background to the movie is genuinely very good, acting is way above average, direction, production and camera work (IMHO) are the key to this movie.
Despite a lacking (yet not a bad) script, the combination of good actors and direction / production makes this movie well worth viewing.
IMHO, it deserves a good 7 out of 10.
The script writing does let the movie down in parts, but the acting makes up for it, no doubt!.
It IS a movie which is very much worth seeking out, if you have not already seen it!.
The storyline and background to the movie is genuinely very good, acting is way above average, direction, production and camera work (IMHO) are the key to this movie.
Despite a lacking (yet not a bad) script, the combination of good actors and direction / production makes this movie well worth viewing.
IMHO, it deserves a good 7 out of 10.
Excellent, under-valued western
MOscarbradley26 September 2007
An outstanding and unjustly neglected western from that fine genre director Phil Karlson who, if he never quite made it to the front ranks, could nevertheless be counted upon to produce first rate and thought-provoking entertainments of which this is one. Karlson had no problem juggling the pieces' myriad themes, (the Freudian relationship between a martinet father and his hot-headed son, miscegenation and racial prejudice, gun culture and the changing ways of the West), without ever sacrificing the solid entertainment value of what is essentially a good old-fashioned western.
As the father piling all his affection on the wrong son, Van Heflin is as reliable as ever. The real surprise of the picture, however, is Tab Hunter as the son who both hates and idolizes his father. Hunter was never much of an actor but here, cast against type as the villain of the piece, he manages to bring depth and feeling to the role. Perhaps he located the misfit nature of the character. After all, being gay in Hollywood in the fifties and living a life that was fundamentally a lie, surely can't have been easy.
As the father piling all his affection on the wrong son, Van Heflin is as reliable as ever. The real surprise of the picture, however, is Tab Hunter as the son who both hates and idolizes his father. Hunter was never much of an actor but here, cast against type as the villain of the piece, he manages to bring depth and feeling to the role. Perhaps he located the misfit nature of the character. After all, being gay in Hollywood in the fifties and living a life that was fundamentally a lie, surely can't have been easy.
A SLEEPER...EXCELLENT AND VIRTUALLY UNKNOWN...FORGOTTEN AMONG THE PLETHORA OF 1950'S WESTERNS
LeonLouisRicci10 September 2021
Overlooked, Oddly Titled Sleeper of a Western Directed by the always Watchable, Edgy Phil Karlson with two Outstanding Leads.
Father and Son Van Heflin and a Turn-Your-Head Performance from Hollywood Protege, Pretty-Boy Tab Hunter.
The Story, while Familiar, is a Cliche made Riveting by the Depth of the Script, the Aforementioned Heflin and Hunter, and some Good Support from James Darren (the "good" Son) and Kathryn Grant as a Forbidden Love Interest, a Native American.
The Action is Dispersed at Regular Intervals and is Essential to the Unfolding Plot of Father vs Son, Good vs Evil, and Racial Bigotry as a Side-Lighted Ingredient that Enriches the Tale.
A Must See for Western Fans and those Not Usually Drawn to the Genre.
It Truly is Worth a Watch and should be Elevated among the Incredible Output of the Western in the 50's that Tends to Bury Hidden-Gems like this one.
A Surprising Find and one that Should Increase in Respect as Film Buffs and Historians Discover its Gravitas as a Movie Forgotten almost as Soon as it was Released,
Father and Son Van Heflin and a Turn-Your-Head Performance from Hollywood Protege, Pretty-Boy Tab Hunter.
The Story, while Familiar, is a Cliche made Riveting by the Depth of the Script, the Aforementioned Heflin and Hunter, and some Good Support from James Darren (the "good" Son) and Kathryn Grant as a Forbidden Love Interest, a Native American.
The Action is Dispersed at Regular Intervals and is Essential to the Unfolding Plot of Father vs Son, Good vs Evil, and Racial Bigotry as a Side-Lighted Ingredient that Enriches the Tale.
A Must See for Western Fans and those Not Usually Drawn to the Genre.
It Truly is Worth a Watch and should be Elevated among the Incredible Output of the Western in the 50's that Tends to Bury Hidden-Gems like this one.
A Surprising Find and one that Should Increase in Respect as Film Buffs and Historians Discover its Gravitas as a Movie Forgotten almost as Soon as it was Released,
Gunman's Walk-The Way they Used to Make Westerns ***1/2
edwagreen11 August 2011
Warning: Spoilers
This was the old-fashioned western and it works well as it deals with the human element and a father's failed attempt to raise his cocky son, the latter too involved with gun play and the resulting tragedies that come about. Of course, Van Heflin, as the patriarch, shows his mettle and his determination to defend a son (Tab Hunter) who can do no wrong, despite violent behavior. James Darren also shines as the good son, in love with Kathryn Grant, a half-Indian whose brother Hunter (Ed) killed which sets him in a spiraling downward motion.
Once the spiraling occurs, we see a different Heflin emerge. He soon shows that he is a stubborn man refusing to face reality and shows his bigotry towards Davie (Darren) and the Indian-girl he loves.
Once the spiraling occurs, we see a different Heflin emerge. He soon shows that he is a stubborn man refusing to face reality and shows his bigotry towards Davie (Darren) and the Indian-girl he loves.
Might Doesn't Make Everything Right
Imdad_Palijo6 July 2022
Lee Hackett (Van Heflin) is an influential rancher based near a calm western town. Himself a hardheaded person, he has brought up his two motherless sons who have utter disregard for right or wrong. Things get worst when one of his headstrong and reckless sons Ed Hackett (Tab Hunter) adopts a destructive and killing course with unjustified and unlawful support from his father. It is, however, too late when he realizes his helplessness. Nature takes its course of justice with toughest consequences.
Van Heflin, Tab Hunter and Kathryn Grant have acted nicely. Though colors are not rich, the film story with a strong message and plot are commendable.
Van Heflin, Tab Hunter and Kathryn Grant have acted nicely. Though colors are not rich, the film story with a strong message and plot are commendable.
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