Cast: Ed Harris, Viggo Mortensen, Renee Zellweger, Jeremy Irons; Director: Ed Harris; Producers: Ed Harris, Ginger Sledge; Screenwriters: Robert Knott, Ed Harris; Music: Jeff Beal; Editor: Kathryn Himoff; Genre: Western; Cinematography: Dean Semler; Distributor: Warner Bros. Pictures; Location: New Mexico , USA; Running Time: 110 min.;Technical Assessment: 3
Moral Assessment: 3
CINEMA Rating: For mature viewers 18 and above
Newly designated City Marshall Virgil Cole (Ed Harris) and his deputy Everett Hitch (Viggo Mortensen) arrive together in Appaloosa, a small town experiencing the abusive presence of a rancher Randall Bragg (Jeremy Irons) and his men, to enforce the law for the interest of peace and justice in the town. Shortly after the arrival of Virgil and Everett, widow Allie French (Renee Zellweger) arrives and smittens the partners, but eventually ends up with Virgil. One of the main tasks of Virgil and Everett as marshalls is to keep track of people responsible for previous crimes of murder, rape, robbery, and related human rights violations. It does not take long for the duo to solve one high profile crime which convicted Bragg. However, even before Bragg serves his jail term, Allie is used by his allies to blackmail Virgil and entire escort team to let go of Bragg.
Storywise, Appaloosa is a mediocre film since it is a hodgepodge drama, action, a dash of political satire, and a bit of love angle. The overall treatment makes the story less exciting but makes lot of sense in view of other technical aspects of the film. The well done cinematography is responsible for good compositions particularly the scenic shots of the village and complements the overall production design including make-up. Sound and good musical score also contributed to the essence of the film. Effective acting especially that of Viggo Mortensen as Everett is commendable, although the movie leaves one with a feeling that it did not ask much of such big stars as Zellweger, Irons and Mortensen.
The film is about professionalism and friendship over personal interest, giving rather than taking more for oneself, and letting go over holding on. In short, it shows a responsibility that goes with accountability and sacrifice. A person who regards a long time partnership can discipline and control himself in the midst of temptation to protect the friendship, and can ultimately risk his life for a friend. The film briefly tackles corruption and flaws in the justice system and how noble law enforcers struggle to face it off. Though within context of this virtual cowboy movie, the female character is depicted in this film as deceiving, scheming, flirtatious and weak—not the best traits a woman can have. It also shows the age when duels were in fashion, and when laws in small towns were practically enforced at gunpoint, so don’t be shocked to see so many shootings.
