Buchanan Rides Alone

Underrated Scott-Boetticher masterpiece
BUCHANAN RIDES ALONE is an underrated Scott-Boetticher issue, book ended by the higher regarded RIDE LONESOME and COMANCHE STATION. Yet, on repeated viewing this disarmingly playful creation holds up very well, in fact, grows in appeal, its superb qualities becoming more apparent. Boetticher and Randy Scott have everything right: the playfulness is never forced nor overblown. Scott, not known for his comedy roles, proves that he has a real knack for a delightfully studied, quizzical, humor. There is also a hint of sarcasm at times, but, again, it never becomes dominant. The supporting cast acts truly as an ensemble, playing off each other, leaving Scott, at times, to be an amused bystander. But he's never out of the unfolding action. In all, this is a highly satisfying film that repays repeated viewing. It deserves a higher position in the Boetticher canon.

There ain't no place like West Texas
A dusty border town...Buchanan rides across, from Mexico into Agry Town, California, and into a mess of trouble. The music (can it be coincidence?) echoes the sweeping romantic melody at the heart of "The Tall T", but "Buchanan", like the previous "Decision at Sundown" is anything but romantic or wistful. Right away we know that we're in a corrupt and dangerous place -- the sheriff who sits right by the border seems to be waiting for any excuse to deal harshly with people crossing - and to take anything he deems "contraband" himself. Traveler Buchanan (Randolph Scott) apparently has nothing, and so is allowed to go.

He stops at a hotel to get a room - $10 (a lot of money in the post-Civil War west) from the fat and kind of stupid-looking yokel behind the desk, whose name happens to be Agry - same as the fat sheriff and the as-yet-unmet fat Judge who is running for senator, both his brothers. The Agrys rule the town and extract a high price from strangers - a steak and a...

philips' DVD etc.
The package arrived 4-5 days ahead of schedule. When I make purchase there was a good rating for product. This DVD will remain in my growing collection. Thank you.

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