This movie was well received by the public when it premiered and it remains a true movie classic. There is no weakness. All aspects of movie making is above average.
The powerful and humorous scenes are numerous, as are the historically faithful presentations. However, the scene where Ten Bears meets Josey Wales ranks among the most poignant in Hollywood history. Devoid of sap, it projects a seriousness of two men who have been betrayed, victimized, and even traumatized.
As Eastwood's character said, "I came here to die with you, or live with you. Dying ain't so hard for men like you and me, it's living that's hard, when all you've ever cared about has been butchered and raped."
In that single line, plus the commentary on the treachery of governments, the protagonist delivers a uniquely powerful commentary that comes across both sincere and relevant for all time.
This one scene goes well beyond excellent entertainment, and instead offers a social commentary that carries not one bit of hollow pretension. The entire scene is well crafted, and by itself elevates this movie to a timeless category that endures well into the future.
Whether this is the best movie Eastwood has made is debatable, as he put together a most enviable resume. But, certainly it is among the greatest, and by that remains one of the finest movies ever made of any genre.
The powerful and humorous scenes are numerous, as are the historically faithful presentations. However, the scene where Ten Bears meets Josey Wales ranks among the most poignant in Hollywood history. Devoid of sap, it projects a seriousness of two men who have been betrayed, victimized, and even traumatized.
As Eastwood's character said, "I came here to die with you, or live with you. Dying ain't so hard for men like you and me, it's living that's hard, when all you've ever cared about has been butchered and raped."
In that single line, plus the commentary on the treachery of governments, the protagonist delivers a uniquely powerful commentary that comes across both sincere and relevant for all time.
This one scene goes well beyond excellent entertainment, and instead offers a social commentary that carries not one bit of hollow pretension. The entire scene is well crafted, and by itself elevates this movie to a timeless category that endures well into the future.
Whether this is the best movie Eastwood has made is debatable, as he put together a most enviable resume. But, certainly it is among the greatest, and by that remains one of the finest movies ever made of any genre.