Paladin is hired by Johnson to ride in a horse race where about any tactic goes. At stake are Indian lands on one side, and Johnson's land baron holdings on the other. But Johnson's a greedy cuss, while the Indians are facing starvation if they lose. So, guess what, being the conscionable character he is, Paladin switches sides and rides for the Indians. However, there's another wrinkle that emerges leading to an unexpected ending.
Good, strong story, filmed in picturesque Bend, Oregon. Johnson's always fun to watch with his distinctive western accent and unforced cowboy demeanor. Australian Michael Pate made what amounts to a career out of playing Indians and does his thing in dignified fashion here, but just count his lines (I hope they weren't paying him by the word!). Anyway, except for Paladin's questionably written, high-falutin' final speech, it's a well-produced, superior entry.
Good, strong story, filmed in picturesque Bend, Oregon. Johnson's always fun to watch with his distinctive western accent and unforced cowboy demeanor. Australian Michael Pate made what amounts to a career out of playing Indians and does his thing in dignified fashion here, but just count his lines (I hope they weren't paying him by the word!). Anyway, except for Paladin's questionably written, high-falutin' final speech, it's a well-produced, superior entry.
