There is excitement in town as murderer Rudy Hayes is expected to be sentenced to hang by Judge Jim Scott (Fred MacMurray). The problem is that the violent Hayes family is coming to town. The oldest Hayes, Charlie, and young hothead Howie threaten Jim. Jake Hayes (Lee Van Cleef) arrives in town and then Monte Hayes. The threat of violence soon has the town cowering including new Sheriff Barney Wiley. The other problem is that Jim's girlfriend Myra Owens has been secretly dating the sheriff.
Sure, it's a lot like High Noon but that can't be the be all and end all. There are some differences. In many ways, this feels more real. It's not as iconic or treated as allegory. It's not about simplified morality. It's also not filmed that well. Harry Keller is more of a TV and western director. Nevertheless, there is a reality to the situation. Charlie's casual threats come off very threatening. The fear feels real. The widow's turn is the cherry on top. That was a surprise and a great turn. Jim Scott is a man of principles until he is faced with a personal betrayal. He has his inner struggle that isn't about his duty. One thing this doesn't have is the iconic walk. It's just as well since most people would claim that it's been copied from High Noon. The ending is not as clean. Myra is problematic and the only way to salvage her would be picking up a gun to save Jim. I have some issues with the action but I still love the mounting pressure from the villains throughout the movie. There is good tension overall.
