~1~ SIXTIES WESTERNS
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 28
3 MOVIES

Most film historians will tell you that the American Western experienced its last gasp in the sixties. Audiences began to lose interest in the genre, particularly younger viewers, and Hollywood was less likely to invest heavily in production costs on these films anymore. Ironically, these new challenges inspired a few directors to create some of their most unique and innovative work during this period like Budd Boetticher (Comanche Station, 1960), Burt Kennedy (Welcome to Hard Times, 1967) and Sam Peckinpah (The Wild Bunch, 1969). It was also a time of change in the film industry and major stars began to assert their independence as filmmakers, choosing the Western format for their directorial debut; this was certainly the case with Marlon Brando (One-Eyed Jacks, 1961). For our mini-salute to "Sixties Westerns" TCM is featuring three key films of this era beginning with Clint Eastwood in Hang 'em High (1967), a revenge drama heavily influenced by the Italian spaghetti Westerns of Sergio Leone. An important film for Eastwood, Hang 'em High was the first feature produced by his own production company, Malposa, and launched his career as an independent producer. Our second feature, One-Eyed Jacks, was Marlon Brando's only attempt at directing but the film has acquired a cult status and it's unlike any other Western you're likely to see. It's fascinating for its 'Method" styled performances by Brando and Karl Malden as a former partner who betrayed him. The movie, which was originally slated for director Stanley Kubrick, is also memorable for its epic sweep and visual compositions. Last but not least comes Randolph Scott as a bounty hunter returning a former Comanche hostage to her husband in Comanche Station, the final - and perhaps the most memorable - film in a seven picture collaboration between director Budd Boetticher and actor Randolph Scott.

By Jeff Stafford ~1~