Bitter and vengeful fugitive Luck Hatcher (an excellent performance by Michael Ironside), dignified former slave turned bounty hunter Jessup Bush (well played by Vondie Curtis-Hall), and wily deputy U.S. Marshal Bodine (a solid and engaging portrayal by Keith Coulouris) all converge in a small town in order to hatch an intricate con in order to bring greedy and ruthless railroad speculator Payton McCay (the always great Bruce Dern in fine slimy and hateful form) to justice. Director Alan J. Levi relates the tricky story at a steady pace, offers a credible evocation of the period, and further spruces things up with amusing touches of sharp humor. The smart and engrossing script by Jim Byrnes and David Chisholm boasts several neat twists and turns and gives everyone a valid reason for seeking revenge on McCay. The first-rate cast rates as another a major asset: Daphne Ashbrook as shrewd bank president Carrey Rose, Tobin Bell as McCay's vicious right-hand man Bullock, Melora Walters as sweet and ditsy saloon gal Bunny, and Doug McClure as the bumbling Granger. Moreover, there are nifty bits by Luis Contreras, M.C. Gainey, Robert Cornthwaite, and country singer Randy Travis (as a U.S. Marshal). Moreover, it's a real treat to see Ironside in a rare and refreshing heroic lead role. John Beymer's bright cinematography and David Schwartz's flavorsome score are both up to par. Worth a watch.
Review of Dead Man's Revenge
