Charley-One Eye

Charley-One Eye is a narrative feature from 1973, directed by British filmmaker Don Chaffey, known for his work across various genres and mediums. The film stars Richard Roundtree, Roy Thinnes, and Nigel Davenport. Set in a picturesque yet harsh and unforgiving frontier landscape, this Western-drama revolves around the experiences of two men who are outcasts in their respective societies, weaving an intricate tale of companionship, resilience, and survival.

The film opens with an introduction to the character portrayed by Richard Roundtree, recognised for his stellar performance in the classic '70s action film, Shaft. In Charley-One Eye, Roundtree takes on the distinct role of an African-American Union soldier who has fled the army, making him a wanted deserter. His character is not only trying to escape authorities but is also grappling with personal turmoil and the harsh realities of racial prejudice prevalent in 19th-century America.

Simultaneously, the film introduces the audience to Roy Thinnes' character, a disenfranchised, wandering Apache man expelled from his tribe. The character, keenly portrayed by Thinnes, known for his performances in The Invaders and Airport 1975, traverses the Western landscape, equally pitted against challenges posed by the wilderness and society.

In the face of oppressive societal norms and the rampant adversities of the Old West, Roundtree's and Thinnes' characters find themselves crossing paths, resulting in a unique, unspoken bond forming between the two characters. The film further explores the duality of their journey, both as fugitives and as friends, trying to survive in an indifferent environment.

Nigel Davenport, widely celebrated for his roles in A Man for All Seasons and The Island of Dr. Moreau, delivers another standout performance in the film. His character acts as a representative of European colonists' perspective and their interactions play a major role in shaping the narrative, creating moments of heightened tension and drama.

The film effectively centres issues of race, bigotry, and the era's social climate, using the backdrop of the Western frontier as an engaging storytelling device. However, Charley-One Eye is not a conventional Western film. It uniquely blends elements of drama, survival, and psychological exploration, all centred on themes of resilience and friendship against the odds.

The cinematography, capturing the stark, breathtaking landscapes of the desert, plays a crucial role in setting the tone and mood of the film. The harsh realities of the region and era are vividly translated onto the screen, enhancing the audience's immersive experience. The steady and methodical pacing of the film allows for a deeper, thought-provoking exploration of its leading characters and their interactions.

What makes Charley-One Eye a truly noteworthy film, is the way it balances its focus between physical survival and psychological resilience. The characters’ lonesome journey through the harsh and unforgiving Western environments serves not only as an adventure of survival but also a journey of self-discovery and understanding their places in the world. Their shared experiences, trauma, and rebellion against societal norms challenge them to re-evaluate their views about race and humanity.

All these factors make Charley-One Eye more than just a Western. Instead, it's a thought-provoking dissection of societal norms, prejudice, and personal growth, examined through the lens of two outcasts in the Wild West. It's a compelling drama of survival and unlikely friendships, showcasing memorable performances from a talented cast, highlighted by the engrossing narrative and remarkable storytelling.