Federal marshal Len Merrick (Kirk Douglas) rescues cattle rustler Tim "Pop" Keith (Walter Brennan) from a lynching by rancher Ned Roden who believes that he killed his son. Merrick intends to take Keith to Santa Loma for a real trial. Roden and son insist on getting revenge. Keith leads the party home where they are ambushed by his daughter Ann (Virginia Mayo).
I love me some Kirk Douglas. This has some good tension although it could heighten it even more. First, it's understandable that Merrick and his men took Pop lightly at the beginning. It's unlikely after Ann starts shooting. They should be tied up much earlier on especially in Pop's own home where he could have a gun hidden anywhere. As for the tension, I like Merrick with only one deputy. Two seems too many and it lowers tension because his situation is not as precarious. Overall, this is a solid Kirk Douglas film for any of his fans.
I love me some Kirk Douglas. This has some good tension although it could heighten it even more. First, it's understandable that Merrick and his men took Pop lightly at the beginning. It's unlikely after Ann starts shooting. They should be tied up much earlier on especially in Pop's own home where he could have a gun hidden anywhere. As for the tension, I like Merrick with only one deputy. Two seems too many and it lowers tension because his situation is not as precarious. Overall, this is a solid Kirk Douglas film for any of his fans.