Something Big

Something Big is an engaging and exciting 1971 Western film filled with charm, humor, and action. This captivating story is directed by Andrew V. McLaglen and stars the charismatic Dean Martin in the lead role, supported by the powerful performances of Brian Keith and Carol White.

Set in the charismatic old west, Something Big weaves a tale around Joe Baker (Dean Martin) - a man who is on a mission for 'something big'. Baker is a persistent, wild, and ambitious bandit on the brink of his 40th year. With most of his life spent with gunslingers in the Wild West, the ever-ambitious outlaw strives to make a significant mark before retiring. He plans a massive, unprecedented heist to make his life's goal a reality, seeking one final thrill, one last adventure before leaving his rowdy lifestyle behind. But first, he must complete a long-awaited promise to his girlfriend, Dover McBride (Carol White), who has been patiently waiting for him back East.

The enigmatic Joe Baker bargains with hard-nosed trader Jonny Cobb (Albert Salmi) to procure a Gatling gun to assist him in his grand scheme. The deal, however, is tricky as Cobb demands a woman in return, complicating Baker's plan and leading the narrative into a maze of interesting twists. The unpredictable Cobb is not satisfied with any ordinary woman; he seeks someone unique, someone who he has dreamt of all his life.

Meanwhile, fresh from a campaign, a rigid and well-decorated but weary Cavalry Colonel, Morgan (Brian Keith), is looking forward to retiring peacefully. His new post takes him toward the same small town where Baker is finalizing his "something big." Coincidentally, his sophisticated and beautiful wife, Mary Anna Morgan (Honor Blackman), frustrated by her prolonged separation from her husband, bravely ventures into the challenging terrain of the Wild West to reunite with him.

The lives of Baker, Cobb, and Colonel Morgan intertwine in unexpected ways, creating a hilarious and adventurous narrative trudge through danger, strategy, and rising tension. The town's goofy but lovable undertaker, Jesse Bookbinder (Ben Johnson), along with his bumbling brother, Junior (Don Knight), adds further color to the interwoven stories.

The movie is a brilliant mix of comedy, adventure, romance, and old western navigating all this while keeping audiences entertained. The film wonderfully showcases the dichotomy of raw Wild West charm and refined Eastern sophistication through the character portrayals.

Dean Martin represents the rugged, charming outlaw with a heart of gold, while Brian Keith embodies the stern, no-nonsense, practical Colonel. Carol White excels as the sweet-natured Dover McBride, patiently waiting for her lover to fulfill his ambition before settling down. Honor Blackman, as the sophisticated yet brave wife Mary Anna Morgan, adds a layer of attraction to the narrative.

Something Big promises a rollercoaster ride of emotions filled with funny dialogues, adventure, beautiful cinematography, and memorable performances. The movie is supplemented by a musical score by prolific composer Burt Bacharach, driving the narrative with music that perfectly complements the mood and pulls audiences into the charming era and setting of the old western.

In a nutshell, Something Big is about a man's pursuit of his dreams, a commitment to love, and quests for adventures in the backdrop of the unpredictable wild west. This light-hearted tale is a great watch for anyone who enjoys a little comedy, action, and romance in a fascinating and character-driven story. Its rich cast and superb direction succeed in capturing a unique slice of Americana, appealing to not just fans of the Western genre but anyone who desires a mix of romance, humor, and broad-sweeping adventure.