Blackthorn reminded me that I like westerns. Set in beautiful and remote Bolivia, its 20 years after Butch Cassidy (without The Sundance Kid) was supposedly killed by the Bolivian army. He has taken on a new alias, James Blackthorn, and now raises horses, living off the land. He decides to go back home, but his journey is interrupted when he happens upon a Spaniard in need of his help.
Sam Shepard (The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford) has a fantastic ability to convey his emotions without speaking. Through his tough exterior, he’s able to portray an empathy for people that the character had in real life. Eduardo Noriega (Vantage Point) captured a desperation without going too far as James’ partner, Eduardo. I did have a problem with the relationship between Mackinley (Stephen Rea) and James (Sam Shepard), but it had nothing to do with the actor, more that I felt there might have been a scene missing. I couldn’t quite understand their connection to one another.
I felt the flashbacks, as a whole, were overused. The young Butch and Sundance seemed hokey and more like a TV movie. It distracted from the main story and only a few of them should have been used. Most of the scenes weren’t necessary and I think more time should have been spent on the woman, Etta. Her story was only briefly touched on and could have been developed more.
Director Mateo Gil and writer Miguel Barros were able to capture the spirit of an American western even though it was set in another country. The desolate areas of the mountains with horses galloping almost make you forget this is in South America. It’s wonderfully shot and the landscape is a delight for the eyes. Another aspect I really enjoyed, was how much of the dialogue was in Spanish. It lent an authenticity to the story that lots of movies miss out on.
The story is slow and deliberate, but keeps you interested. I did have a few problems with it, but ultimately, I really enjoyed it. It’s got action, adventure, drama, romance and beautiful scenery.
Blackthorn is playing at the Tribeca Film Festival Sunday 4/24, Tuesday 4/26 and Friday 4/29.
Rating: If you’re a fan of westerns, you’ll dig it. (6/10)
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