Cowboys and Aliens is a fascinating, action-orientated tale that successfully merges two genres to create an enjoyable movie-going experience. The film is a terrific mixture of suspense, mystery, action, and other elements that woo movie lovers. The movie stars Daniel Craig (The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo), Harrison Ford (Morning Glory), Olivia Wilde (Tron: Legacy), and Sam Rockwell (Iron Man 2). It’s directed by Jon Farveau (Iron Man 1&2).
Cowboys and Aliens reacquaints modern movie lovers with the old west. The movie is based on the 2006 graphic novel of the same name. Cowboy & Aliens quickly whisks the audience into yesteryear as it is set in 1873. The film is a classic western at its core but it implements a creative concept of intertwining a sci-fi aspect into the story to entrance viewers back to the once great film genre. It’s a non-stop wild west experience that embeds a number of elements within the film that vastly enhance the enjoyment of the movie.
It’s an action-based film that becomes a great exhibit for how man can overcome adversity. The movie is a great example of how the petty circumstances that man often argue over are miniscule in comparison to a greater threat. In Cowboys & Aliens, man sets aside such senseless, inconsequential squabbles like prejudice and wealth to unite against common foe. Cowboys & Aliens is a great showcase for what man can become as a species.
The cinematography of the film accentuates the story. It vastly enhances the enjoyment of the film as if truly feels like the old west. The use of lighting or lack of lighting forces the audience to feel like a part of the picture instead of just watching this blockbuster. The days were bright and the nighttime was especially dark. The scenes around the campfire made you feel like you are right there. Every aspect of Cowboys & Aliens is created to give the audience a immersive experience as they bear witness to the commingling of an unlikely blend of genres.
The cast of Cowboys & Aliens make the film work. They all have great chemistry and each brings a different element to the film that gives the film a distinct diversity. Harrison Ford steals the show as Woodrow Dolarhyde. Ford’s mulit-layered portrayal of the hard-nosed, cantankerous Dolarhyde was a scene stealing treat. It was easily one of Ford’s better portrayals as it shows his ability to transition because of his age. Daniel Craig does a decent job as Jake Lonergan. Craig’s attempt at a tough guy persona wasn’t deplorable although it may have been more believable by a more true action star. However, he and Ford have good chemistry and play off of one another well. The unlikely teaming of the two characters work and provide a great offset to one another since their rivalry drives much of the film. Olivia Wilde continues to add to her mounting resume with another good, solid performance.
Cowboys & Aliens is an exciting journey into history that is a what every great western is at its core. it’s a theme driven story that teaches its audience a lesson in the process of entertaining it. The film pays homage to the old westerns throughout the running time of the movie. It’s a good old fashioned shoot em’ up with but with aliens instead of Indians as the adversaries. It even ends just as it should, with the hero riding off into the sunset. Go see it and enjoy the ride!
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