Take the 3:10 to Yuma

On Sunday I finally got a chance to see 3:10 to Yuma. This wonderfully made western movie brought to mind the classic John Wayne movies that characterized the American West in my father's day. I was quite surprised as to how true it really was to the genre. Actually, I would be willing to bet money that in ten years it'll be a classic.

One element of the movie that I found especially intriguing, however, was the unique use of a common American myth known as The Value of a Challenge. In this common myth, we find one character who encounters a unique challenge that he must face and overcome. In the end he learns something about himself and others, and comes to understand reality in a new and more full way.

This myth is never more evident than in 3:10 to Yuma. This well done remake of a classic 1950 starts out with a cattle rancher in Arizona in the late 1800's. The railroad is coming into town and he finds himself in debt to a very bad man, with the railroad set to steam right through his property. He goes into town, seeking an extension on his land lease, but instead gets shot down by the evil debt collector for the hundredth time. Little does he know, but he will soon find himself face to face with a man so evil and twisted, but yet so handsome, attractive, and smooth talking that he could convince you to cut off your own leg and enjoy it at the same time.

Enter the outlaw, Ben Wade (Russell Crowe). Wade is notorious in those parts for his part in nearly 41 robberies and murders and almost 400,000 dollars in lost revenue. Due to one little misstep, he finds himself in the hands of the local authorities, who have it in their mind to bring him to justice. The farmer, Dan Evans (Christian Bale), needing the money desperately, agrees to escort Wade to the 3:10 to Yuma, leaving from the railroad town of Contention in two days time. Little does he know, the journey will be the journey of his life, leading him through a deserted pass occupied by some not-so-happy Apache Indians, the death of all but two of his traveling companions and through a town where nearly 40 outlaws have their guns blazing, all aiming to capture the bounty on Evans head.

The ending is a phenomenal picture of redemption and justice, all played out in 2 very opposite men. In my opinion, there's nothing better than a good western movie, where the good guys are good, the bad guys are bad, and good always overcomes evil. 3:10 to Yuma is such a picture and not a picture to miss for your life. But don't take my word for it. Go see it for youself.

(3:10 to Yuma is currently playing at all major theaters. )