Film Review: 3:10 To Yuma (2007)

Director James Mangold brings forth this wonderful tale of good versus evil set against the arid and picturesque Southwestern United States desert region. Christian Bale portrays Dan Evans as a retired soldier who moved West in search of a better life. Unfortunately, times are hard and he is in desperate need to support his family. Russell Crowe is the outlaw Ben Wade and represents the obstacle to Dan's success. Wade is the end which will justify all means necessary and prove to be the catalyst for Dan's determination for high morale standards. Will the goodness in man overcome its propensity for violence or is this a futile attempt to make some foolish cash in order to make a point to an adolescent boy?

To begin with, the cinematography in 3:10 to Yuma is simply incredible. There are breathtaking vistas which transport the viewer back to a time when too many people settled things in the dirt streets with the barrel of a gun. In this part of the untamed West, we find a humble man trying to do the best for his family during some difficult times. Dan Evans is a modest man with a unassuming nature. Being an ex-soldier has had a profound impact on his life. With all the lawlessness in the land, it is a daunting task for him to keep to the straight and narrow while always trying to do the right thing. Evans is tested, taunted, and tempted time and time again to unleash his anger. There are many scenes which depict this point of view. The eyes may be the windows to the soul and Evans' are still cracked open just a bit to provide that glimpse of a past life which he wishes to distance himself and his family from ever seeing again. For the sake of his family, he must maintain his composure at all times. Much to the dismay of his young son, he continues to shy away from violence.

From their initial meeting to the very end, Wade has an ever increasing curiosity about what makes Evans tick. There is this constant probing of each other's inner psyche and what compels someone to react in a given situation. Call it a strong predisposition of trying to figure out why things are what they are. Are they from the same mold or did they become victims of their own circumstances?

A simple task, it was not. It was a high price to pay for doing the right thing. 3:10 to Yuma has great acting. Christian Bale and Russell Crowe are equals on the screen despite being on opposite ends of the morality spectrum. Although the movie runs a bit over two hours, the pacing is excellent. The finale was a bit over the top, but presents a more than satisfying climax to the film.

Mike's Rating: 9 out of 10 Jail Cell Rail Cars (One of the year's best)
MPAA Rating: Rated R for violence and some language
Running Time: 2 hour 2 minutes