This movie truly stands out as a favorite, especially for showcasing Jane Fonda’s incredible range. She masterfully embodies both the innocent, naive young woman and the spirited, commanding leader of a Wild West outlaw gang. Her transformation into an outlaw is not arbitrary; it’s powerfully justified by the corrupt townsfolk’s scheme to seize her father’s land and ultimately murder him. This conspiracy involves almost everyone in town, including the sheriff, a deceitful figure placed in power to facilitate their nefarious plans.
The film shares notable parallels with ‘Silverado,’ another cinematic gem known for its stellar ensemble cast and compelling Western narrative. The portrayal of Lee Marvin’s drunken horseback riding is exceptionally well-executed. Whether it was Marvin himself or a stunt rider, the performance is remarkable, deserving of the accolades it received. His Oscar win was undoubtedly justified.
Beneath the comedic surface lies a sharp commentary on the conformist nature of supposedly ‘respectable, middle-class people.’ The film cleverly depicts the townspeople, bankrolled by the ominous Wolf Company, as the true villains. Katherine Ballou, initially the virtuous schoolteacher, turns to outlawry as she witnesses the profound wickedness hidden beneath the veneer of ‘nice’ society.
The Hole-in-the-Wall gang’s existence within the community is a fascinating element. They are allowed to live undisturbed because the Wolfe Company’s heir, responsible for the death of Jane’s father (and subsequently shot by Jane herself), chooses to leave them alone. They thrive ‘under the radar’ until Jane’s gang inadvertently draws unwanted attention to their hidden sanctuary. This dynamic subtly mirrors certain political scenarios where hidden elements are tolerated until they become too visible.
The ‘Indian’ character’s witty remarks, particularly his joke about Custer delivered amidst the menacing town thugs, are a comedic highlight. The film remains surprisingly relevant and humorous, delivering its social message with a light touch. The lesson is effectively conveyed without resorting to heavy-handed moralizing. It’s a thoroughly enjoyable movie, and purchasing it was definitely a worthwhile decision.
