This film begins with two cowboys named "Owen Daybright" (Burt Lancaster) and his foster brother "Lee Strobie" (Robert Walker) riding into a small town after spending several months in an isolated area tending cattle during the winter. Naturally, having been away from civilization for so long, the first thing they do is to venture into the local saloon to have a drink before heading out to the ranch a few miles further out. It's then that they learn that a young woman by the name of "Lilly" (Sally Forrest) has just given birth to a baby out of wedlock. Not only that, but her refusal to identify the father has further inflamed the situation as well. In any case, recognizing how difficult things must be for her, Owen rides out to see her and, while there, gives her $500 to help her out. Unfortunately, Lilly's brothers misconstrue his generosity and--figuring that he must be the person who fathered the baby--take it upon themselves to avenge their sister's dishonor by killing him. In the meantime, Lee's father "Arch Strobie" (Ray Collins) has just learned that $500 has been withdrawn from Lee's bank account and assumes that it was due to a gambling debt he incurred while playing poker. Lee's wife "Jen Strobie" (Joanne Dru), on the other hand, immediately realizes the truth and, after a fierce argument, decides to leave her unfaithful husband once and for all. Further exasperating the problem is the fact that, when Owen convinces her to stay, Lee gets the false impression that the two have been having an affair--and this results in even more serious consequences for all concerned. Now, rather than reveal any more, I will just say that this movie turned out to be much better than I originally expected due in large part to the acting of Burt Lancaster and the intriguing storyline. Admittedly, it might not interest some viewers who prefer action above everything else, but I enjoyed it for the most part and I have rated it accordingly. Above average.
Review of Vengeance Valley
