Last Of The Badmen

Last Of The Badmen is an engaging Italian-made Spaghetti Western movie from 1967, directed by Gianni Crea. The film stars prolific actors of the Western genre, George Hilton, Frank Wolff, and Pamela Tudor. It presents a dynamic story that fluctuates between law and chaos, creating a rollercoaster narrative often found in Spaghetti Westerns.

George Hilton assume the role of Kitosch, an ex-convict who receives a new lease of life as a rancher in a quiet town but agitates the peace when he instigates an affair with the wife of his employer, Gary Hamilton (played by Frank Wolff), the Sheriff of Blackstone. After surviving a good old Western confrontation with his boss, Kitosch finds himself flung back into the unpredictable world he is all too familiar with.

Frank Wolff delivers a convincing steely performance as the strong, authoritarian sheriff. Wolff's performance carries a sense of firm authority and creates a fascinating contrast with Hilton's reckless and flirtatious character. In an interesting twist, the adulterous wife, Angie (played by Pamela Tudor), whose loyalty swings like a pendulum throughout the film, is far from the typical damsel in distress usually found in Western films.

The film's narrative moves cleverly between personal conflicts, ambiguous alliances, sense of duty and survival, and the desperate need for redemption. It's a tale as old as time in the Western narrative – the morally awkward man against unforgiving lawmen and ruthless bandits.

One of the film's highlights is the organic evolution of the lead character, Kitosch. From the charming yet troublesome ranch-hand at the beginning, we witness his transformation into an outlaw and then a man of principle, proving that people aren't always what they seem. The character development is made all the more gripping by George Hilton's nuanced performance, which charms the viewers and commands empathy.

The movie also brings into focus the ever-changing loyalties of the old West, embodied by the fickle character of Angie. The nature of these relationships is as undulating as the land itself, contributing to the tension-filled atmosphere that keeps viewers on the edge of their seat.

Away from character dynamics, the film does not shy away from showcasing the brutal atmosphere of the Wild West, an aspect that lends authenticity to the storytelling. It's the survival of the fittest, where people are pushed to their limits just to stay alive. The cinematography brilliantly captures the harsh landscapes, creating a fitting background for the tumultuous events of the film.

Adding to the overall experience is the film's music. The soundtrack, typical of Westerns, composed by the talented Francesco De Masi, resonates with the mood, pacing, and sequence of each scene. From intense face-offs to moments of contemplation, the score heightens the emotional depth of the film.

Moreover, the film does a fabulous job of maintaining a degree of suspense throughout its story, juggling the elements that drew crowds to the Spaghetti Western genre in the first place. From the enigmatic scene settings to the high-stakes face-offs, it maintains your attention, waiting for the climax.

Though it holds many traditional aspects of Westerns, Last Of The Badmen is far from your typical cowboy film. It presents a complete package of a rich storyline, character development, visceral action, and picturesque imagery, making it a hidden gem of the Spaghetti Western genre.

Despite not being on the frontlines of the Spaghetti Western wave that swept through the 60s, Last Of The Badmen holds its own with a balance of heart-wrenching drama and thrilling spectacle. It offers a captivating look into the human instinct for survival amidst the lawless dust trails of the old West.

Overall, Last Of The Badmen is a film that builds its narrative strength upon solid character portrayals, dramatic plot progression, and atmospheric settings. For the enthusiasts of the Western genre and fans of George Hilton's performances, this film is a treasure trove. It's a classic tale of grit, guns, and redemption that leave a lasting impression on its audience.